Read the first part of my blog from August 26th for more tips on back to school health for children.
Preparing for Check Ups
Talk with your child before the appointment about what to expect. Do not discuss shots prior to their appointment, as this could cause unnecessary worry. I know as an adult I can get very uneasy about health exams.
“Research has shown that parents who have a positive, calm and reassuring approach have children with less hysterical fussing and crying.”
Time your child’s appointment. Schedule exams for at a time of day when your child is well rested and most likely to be cooperative.
Be positive, calm and reassuring.
Listen to your child. Encourage your child to share any fears he or she might have. Address their concerns.
Preventative Stay Healthy Kids Tips
Stress, pink eye, lice and strep throat are usually a part of childhood. Here are some preventative measures you can take.
The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against jumbo backpacks — never more than 20% of the child’s body weight (those books can add up). Some children even prefer a rolling backpack like the wheeled suitcase. Make sure the backpack has wide straps and a padded back.
Parents must also be sure the child has sufficient sleep, usually eight hours for a growing child and even more for a teen. And the child should go off with a good breakfast. Sometimes kids can eat at school, too, but nutrition helps the child to focus and concentrate.
The San Francisco Center for Disease Protection recommends some more healthy habits to prevent germs and infectious diseases from spreading.
Handle & Prepare Food Safely
Wash hands, utensils, and surfaces often when preparing any food, especially raw meat. Always wash fruits and vegetables. Cook and keep foods at proper temperatures. Don’t leave food out – refrigerate promptly.
Wash Hands Often! If the Corona virus taught us anything, it was we aren’t washing our hands long enough or often enough.
Clean & Disinfect Commonly Used Surfaces throughout the day. I believe in cleaning up immediately after you spill something.
Cough & Sneeze Into Your Sleeve. How often do you do that? Be honest!
Don’t Share Personal Items that can’t be disinfected, like toothbrushes and razors, or sharing towels between washes.
Get Vaccinated: You should get some vaccinations in childhood, some as an adult, and some for special situations like pregnancy and travel. Make sure you and your family are up-to-date on your vaccinations. It is important to know what the laws are in your state. I have a friend who did not vaccinate her child in New Hampshire. Her child was allowed to enter school because she objected to vaccinations for religious reasons.
Avoid Touching Wild Animals as you don’t know if they are carrying a disease.
Stay Home When Sick. Really. We saw how easily coronavirus spread last year.
Easy Access for Needed Information!
Enter insurance id/group #, pediatrician info into cell phone/address book. Both always needed when filling out school forms and after school activities. Have them where you can find easily and effortlessly.
Make sure the school has emergency contacts if you cannot be reached. Make sure the school also has a copy of health insurance information, doctors’ names and numbers, and any allergies and medications taken regularly.
Keep this information if you carry a planner or smart phone. ICE is an acronym that is used for people to locate information. Keep a copy somewhere in your home if someone else needs to access, such as your command center or the refrigerator.
Also reference CCIO episode #96 organizing medical and health records released on Feb. 2nd For more tips.
You will want to update at the beginning of the school year or wherever there is a change.
Take away from the two blogs on stay healthy kids tips:
- When planning the school year, plan your child’s exams: vision, wellness, dental and sports.
- Develop Healthy habits to prevent germs and infectious diseases from spreading.
- Make sure the school has a copy of health insurance information, doctors’ names and numbers, and any allergies and medications taken regularly.
Do the school’s have the correct emergency contact information? What preventative health tips do you need to start? Is your child prepared for a check-up?
Go out clear the clutter to create the life you choose, deserve and desire!
DIY Options to Clear Clutter
Purchase Julie’s books on how to clear clutter from your life: https://reawakenyourbrilliance.com/shop/
Subscribe to Clear Your Clutter Inside & Out Podcast https://reawakenyourbrilliance.com/resources-concierge-services/podcasts/self-help-podcast/
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