Hop on the Bus: Keeping You and Your Kids Healthy This School Year

By Brooke Strickland
Writer for FEP International

For me, back to school was always an exciting time. It meant back to school shopping, which translated to picking out shiny new pens and pencils, a new backpack, an awesome selection of folders, and a new outfit for the first day. The night before school started, I would organize everything and lay out my outfit, so I’d be ready to head out the door on time. Now, as a parent, I recognize the importance of planning ahead not only for that first day back, but for the whole school year adventure. Here are some handy tips in preparing for a healthy and happy school year.

• Establish a routine: During the summer, routines can often go right out the window. A few weeks before school starts, begin establishing a more regular routine, so your child’s body can more easily acclimate to the upcoming schedules of the new year.
• Get your sleep: This goes for parents AND kids! A solid night of sleep can keep you feeling energized throughout the day.
• Ready, set, eat! The saying “breakfast is the most important meal of the day” has some good truth to it. Think of it as a way to fuel yourself for your day. Don’t load up on sugary pastries or doughnuts all the time, though. Balance your morning meal with some grains, fruits, protein, and dairy products.
• Stay clean: Wash those hands! Washing your hands with warm, soapy water will disinfect your hands from germs that cause those nasty colds and flu viruses and will keep you from spreading harmful bacteria to those around you.
• Vitamins are your friend! Giving your kids a chewable daily vitamin will help boost their immune system, helping them fight off viruses that are lurking around them.
• Stay safe: Buckle up in the car. If your child is riding the bus, make sure they wait in a line for the bus driver to stop and open the door.
• Develop good work habits: This is also a good one for parents AND kids. Take your time doing your work, ask questions if you need to, and try your best.
• Have fun! Encouraging your child to have a good sense of humor and to enjoy school as much as possible will help maintain a happy attitude.

So, try to avoid those back to school jitters by using these tips and details to adjust to another year of schedules, challenges, and joys.