Preparing Your Child for a Great Start to the School Year
Healthy Lifestyle Routine
The beginning of August means most children are returning to school, starting sports, and finding new friends and hobbies. It can be challenging to leave the summer months and prepare to get your child back to school routines while promoting a healthy lifestyle.
The start of the new school year is an excellent time to make a positive change with a pediatrician. Their expertise can help your child develop the healthy habits they will need for success, setting them on a path to lifelong wellness.
Lifestyle Medicine helps families develop healthy habits and wellness goals specific
to their child's unique needs. A personalized lifestyle plan that addresses healthy
eating, sleep routines, safe exercise, social needs, and stress reduction is very
important.
Providing a bedtime routine and promoting healthy eating, physical activity, and overall health can be overwhelming. Transitions can be challenging for children and families. However, you are not alone. ETSU Health Lifestyle Medicine supports and guides you with our recommendations and guidelines, helping you promote your child's overall health.
1. Schedule Annual Check-Up and Immunizations
Scheduling an annual checkup can help ensure children's health and well-being before their return to class in August. Children who see their pediatrician annually can develop healthy habits that carry into adulthood. A pediatrician will examine their overall health and can get them up to date on all CDC-recommended vaccines for school-aged children.
While there, parents and guardians can talk to the pediatrician about the clinic's many other services, including integrated behavioral health services and lifestyle medicine.
2. Watch for Behaviorial Changes
Returning to school can be stressful for children. Look for any changes in behavior
that worry you or show any signs of anxiety, depression, or other serious risks. According
to the American Academy of Pediatrics, more than 14 million children in the United States, or 1 in 5, have a diagnosable
mental health disorder.
Prioritizing a stable routine with healthy meals, sleep, and exercise can help with children's mental health.
3. Make Healthy Choices
Children look up to parents, teachers, and adults. Children will follow a healthy lifestyle if they see it performed by those they admire.
If your child still struggles with making healthy choices, talk to your pediatrician
about a consultation with a lifestyle medicine expert. From picky eaters to children
who are stressed or struggle with sleep routines, these experts are here to guide
your family through whatever challenges you may face.
