10 Tips for Going Back to School Safely

With most kids across Texas returning to school, it’s crucial for parents to prioritize public health as they prepare their children for the classroom. Beyond shopping for supplies and organizing schedules, ensuring that health and safety are at the forefront is essential to keeping kids safe and healthy throughout the school year. Here are key public health tips every Texas parent should consider as their children head back to school.

1. Vaccinations: Keep Them Up to Date

Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to protect your child and the community from preventable diseases. Ensure that your child’s immunizations are up to date before the school year begins. Check with your pediatrician to confirm they’ve received all required shots, including boosters for older kids. In particular, consider the flu vaccine and, if applicable, the COVID-19 vaccine, as these can significantly reduce the risk of illness during the school year.

2. Reinforce Good Hygiene Habits

Teaching kids good hygiene habits is crucial, especially as they spend time in close contact with others at school. Remind them of the importance of washing their hands regularly with soap and water, especially before eating, after using the restroom, and after coughing or sneezing. You can also provide them with hand sanitizer for situations where soap and water aren’t available. Reinforce the habit of covering their mouth and nose with a tissue or their elbow when they cough or sneeze.

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3. Balanced Nutrition: Fuel for Learning

A healthy diet plays a significant role in your child’s ability to focus and perform well in school. Make sure they start the day with a nutritious breakfast that includes whole grains, protein, and fruits. Pack balanced lunches and snacks that are rich in nutrients, avoiding excessive sugar and processed foods. Proper nutrition supports their immune system, helping them stay healthy and ready to learn.

4. Prioritize Allergy Awareness

As you prepare your child for the new school year, it’s essential to address allergy awareness, whether your child has allergies or not. If your child has food allergies, practice what to do in the event of an allergic reaction. Ensure that the teacher and school nurse are informed and that they have any necessary medications on hand. If your child does not have allergies, this is an ideal time to teach them about the seriousness of food and other allergies. Emphasize the importance of not sharing snacks, lunches, or medications with classmates. Additionally, check with the school to see if there are any nut-free or allergy-related policies in place to help protect all children.

5. Encourage Physical Activity

Physical activity is vital for both physical and mental health. Encourage your child to participate in sports, physical education classes, or simply spend time playing outside. Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, improves mood, and promotes better sleep—all of which are essential for school success. Aim for at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day.

6. Prioritize Mental Health

The back-to-school period can be stressful for children, especially if they’re transitioning to a new school, grade, or facing social challenges. Pay attention to their mental health by checking in regularly about how they’re feeling. Encourage open communication and let them know it’s okay to talk about any anxieties or concerns. If your child shows signs of persistent stress, anxiety, or depression, consider seeking help from a counselor or mental health professional.

7. Manage Sleep Schedules

Adequate sleep is crucial for a child’s development and academic performance. As the school year approaches, start adjusting bedtime routines to ensure your child gets enough rest. Elementary-aged children typically need 9-12 hours of sleep per night, while teenagers need 8-10 hours. A consistent sleep schedule improves focus, mood, and overall well-being.

8. Teach Proper Backpack Safety

Carrying heavy backpacks can lead to back and shoulder pain, which can affect a child’s posture and comfort. Choose a backpack with wide, padded straps and encourage your child to wear it with both straps on their shoulders to distribute weight evenly. The backpack should not weigh more than 10-15% of your child’s body weight. If necessary, use a rolling backpack to prevent strain.

9. Bus and Pedestrian Safety

As your child heads back to school, prioritize bus and pedestrian safety. Teach your child to stand away from the road while waiting for the bus, board only after it stops, and stay seated with hands and feet inside. Always cross in front of the bus where the driver can see them. For walkers, practice the route together, using sidewalks when possible and walking against traffic if not. Remind them to stay alert, avoid distractions, and take extra care when it’s dark outside. Encourage a break from electronics to avoid distracted walking and ensure a safe journey to and from school.

10. Stay Informed About School Health Policies

Finally, stay informed about your school’s health policies, especially those related to illness prevention and management. Understand the procedures for reporting absences due to illness, and keep your child home if they show symptoms of contagious illnesses. Familiarize yourself with policies regarding mask-wearing, hand hygiene, and other preventative measures that may be in place.

As parents, ensuring your child’s health is a top priority as they head back to school. By staying proactive and mindful of these public health reminders, you can help your child have a safe, healthy, and successful school year.