The University of Kansas Health System experts offer tips to help kids start the school year healthy — physically and mentally
As families prepare for a new school year, University of Kansas Health System experts say now is the time to establish healthy routines, make sure children are protected against preventable illnesses and check in on their mental health.
Stephen Lauer, MD — Pediatrician, The University of Kansas Health System
• GET KIDS BACK ON A SLEEP SCHEDULE: Summer schedules can disrupt sleep, but getting children back to a consistent bedtime and wake-up time is critical for success at school.
• KEEP VACCINATIONS UP TO DATE: Children should continue to receive recommended vaccines, including seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Parents should talk with their child's health care provider about which vaccines are recommended.
• DON'T WAIT ON THE FLU VACCINE: Lauer says if parents have an opportunity to get their child vaccinated, they should take it rather than waiting for the "perfect" time.
• WATCH FOR BULLYING: Parents should stay connected to what's happening with their children and their peers and pay attention to how those experiences may be affecting their mental health.
• REESTABLISH HEALTHY HABITS: Back-to-school is also a good time to get children back into routines around personal hygiene, including regular handwashing.
Danielle Johnson, PhD — Licensed psychologist and clinical assistant professor, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Kansas Medical Center
• ASK ABOUT THE GOOD — AND THE BAD: Parents should make space for their children to talk about the highs and lows of their day, reinforcing that they can come to them when they're struggling.
• KNOW THE WARNING SIGNS: Changes in personality, grades, friendships, mood or interest in school can be signs that something is wrong. A child who suddenly becomes withdrawn or apathetic may need additional support.
• CHECK IN ON THEIR DIGITAL WORLD: Johnson says checking a child's phone can be viewed as a safety check, not a trust issue. Social media and text messages can sometimes reveal how a child is feeling when they aren't saying it out loud.
• TAKE A PARENT TIMEOUT: When a child shares something upsetting, parents should resist the urge to immediately jump in and fix the problem. Taking a breath and responding calmly can help keep the lines of communication open.
• HELP KIDS PROBLEM-SOLVE: Instead of immediately taking over, parents can work with their children to identify the problem, consider their options and find solutions together.
