Start the School Year Strong with These Simple Steps

As backpacks come out of the closet and school supply lists start to grow, it’s the perfect time to focus on your child’s health. A smooth transition into the school year sets the tone for academic success and emotional well-being. From routine checkups to healthy sleep habits, here are key health tips to help your family head into the new school year.

1. Schedule Those Screenings and Physicals

Annual checkups are essential for catching concerns early and making sure your child is ready for the year ahead:

• Vision screenings can detect undiagnosed issues that may affect learning, like nearsightedness or eye strain.
  
  
• Hearing tests help identify problems that could impact speech, social development, and classroom success.
  
  
• Many schools require physical exams for participation in sports or other activities. Don’t wait until the last minute to schedule one.
  
  
• Use this visit to discuss immunizations, allergies, growth milestones, and any developmental concerns with your child’s provider.
  
  

2. Reset Sleep Schedules

Long summer days often mean late bedtimes, but good sleep is essential for focus, mood, and immunity.

• Start shifting your child’s sleep schedule 1–2 weeks before school starts by moving bedtime and wake-up time earlier in 15–30 minute increments.
  
  
• Aim for:
  
  
  • 9–12 hours of sleep per night for kids ages 6–12
    
    
  • 8–10 hours for teens
    
    
• Limit screen time before bed and keep bedrooms dark, cool, and quiet to encourage restful sleep.
  
  

3. Support Mental & Emotional Health

Back-to-school time can bring excitement, but also anxiety or stress, especially after a long summer break or a move to a new school.

• Check in with your child. Ask open-ended questions about how they feel about school starting.
  
  
• Practice calming routines like deep breathing, mindfulness, or family walks in the evening.
  
  
• Encourage healthy habits like regular physical activity, social interaction, and time outdoors.
  
  
• If your child has ongoing anxiety, mood swings, or behavioral challenges, talk with your pediatrician about connecting with a mental health professional.
  
  

Start the School Year Strong

Preparing for school is more than just buying notebooks and pencils—it’s about setting your child up for a healthy, confident start to the year. From physical wellness to emotional readiness, small steps now can make a big difference in the months ahead.

Need to schedule a school physical or get connected with a mental health provider? Our team is here to support your family every step of the way. Let’s make this school year the healthiest one yet!