It seems like summer just got started and it's already time to get ready to go back to school! Are you ready? Are your kids ready? There is so much to condsider and do; buy backpacks, lunch boxes, paper, pencils folders, new clothes and new shoes are the first items that come to mind. Then there's the 'list'. You know, the one that gets sent by the teacher of all the other things you need to purchase: water bottles, paper towels, boxed tissues, markers, crayons and don't forget the hand sanitizer!
Besides buying supplies and a new wardrobe there is another list to think about. The list of things pertaining to health that has no small part in determining your child's educational success. First on the list is that your child must have all immunizations up to date and documented. Copies must be made available for the school. To make it a little easier to know which vaccine is needed at what age look at the chart below.
Next are the physical, vision and hearing tests. It is important to know the baseline health of your child and learn of any conditions that need to be treated or managed so that proper care can be taken during the school. Also, a vision assessment is vital. If glasses, contacts or even a seat close to the front of class is needed, you want to know that before classes begin. Eye exams can be tailored to be age specific meaning, if a child doesn't know letters well yet numbers can be used and kids can use their hands to indicate which way the E is facing. Hearing problems can also affect learning so a seat in the front of the room or hearing aids may be indicated. All of these assessments can be done, or refered by your pediatricians office.
Always have emergency contact information up to date and easily accessable to school faculty and teach your child to memorize your number. Make sure the school nurse is aware of and has necessary supplies and medication to manage any ongoing conditions such as asthma or diabetes. Make sure any medication you send to school is in the original prescription container and clearly marked with your childs name and name of medication. Inform the school of any allergies, disabilities or restrictions such as foods or activities.
When buying a wordrobe picture your child at school walking, running, playing, carrying books in a backpack, possibly having to sit in the floor for certain activities etc. Make sure all clothing gives adequate range of motion while providing warmth and protection. Make sure pants and shoelaces aren't long enough to trip over and shoes fit with approximately a thumbs width (your thumb) at the toe. This will prevent constriction of the foot while staying snug enough to not cause a trip hazzard.
When shopping for backpacks remember that there will be added weight in the pack that your child will have to carry on his/her back for much of the day. Find a pack that allows even distribution of weight and padded straps. Straps should be adjustable so that they can be shorted or lengthen as needed to even weight and provide comfort.
I know that part of summertime fun for kids is being able to stay up late at night. Get your child in the habit of a routine bedtime a week or two before the first day of school. This will ensure an easier transition and better mental focus when heading back to the classroom.
There is so much to do and think about when that 'school starts back' time of year rolls around but planning ahead and even letting your child take part in some of the decision making (picking out clothes or backpack) can make it a little less stressful.
