Back To School: Who’s Ready?

 

Is everyone ready for a great school year? It’s fair to say that most parents and students would at least settle for a “normal” school year like we had before COVID barged into our lives two-and-a-half years ago.

There’s a very good chance we will get “normal” or something very close to it. The new back-to-school COVID rules issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (and reviewed by The PediaBlog last week) reflects the agency’s confidence that everyone 6 months of age and older has now had ample opportunity to receive the primary series of safe, effective, and free COVID vaccines. Add to that the fact that most Americans (including many who were vaccinated) have some degree of natural immunity after being infected with Omicron during the spring and summer. And the CDC is certain from the evidence gathered over more than two pandemic years that other precautions add additional layers of protection, like wearing well-fitting face masks (N95 or KN95) indoors when community COVID levels are “high”, assuring good ventilation, and staying home when not feeling well (and doing a home COVID test).

The CDC reminds us of another important back-to-school tip to prevent transmitting SARS-CoV-2, as well as influenza, gastrointestinal bugs, strep bacteria, and other contagious nasties:

Washing hands stops germs. Handwashing with soap and water is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent the spread of colds, flu, and other diseases to others.

Parents, teachers, and informed students can teach proper handwashing so people don’t pass germs or illnesses to others. At school, it’s important for students to wash their hands before eating; after using the toilet; and after blowing their nose, coughing, or sneezing. Handwashing also helps keep students, their families, and school staff healthy so they don’t miss school or work.

 

To stay healthy throughout the year, the American Academy of Pediatrics urges parents to stick to the basics and make sure students are getting nutritious meals (read Nutrition 4 Kids — Back to School by AHN Pediatrics’ Jennifer Yoon from The PediaBlog last week), sufficient sleep (also covered here on the blog last week), and abundant exercise (outdoors in nature is ideal).

In addition to safeguarding physical health, the AAP advises parents to “stay tuned in to your child’s mental health” (a frequent concern addressed on The PediaBlog):

Many children and teens have experienced mental health struggles over the past few years. It’s important to let them know it’s ok to talk about how they’re feeling. Stay on the lookout for any changes in behavior that worry you or any signs of anxiety or distress. Try to prioritize family meals and exercise breaks, like taking walks together. These can be great opportunities to talk.

Ask your pediatrician if you are unsure if your child needs help or how to start a discussion. Schools may also offer sources of mental health support.

If you have a firearm in your home, make sure to lock it up and store the ammunition separately. The increased risk of suicide is higher for children and teens who live in a home where guns are stored loaded or unlocked.

 

Be prepared when bullying and hateful bias rear their ugly heads (read this excellent article, “Talking to Children About Race and Racism,” on JAMA Pediatrics Patient Page here):

Talk with your child about racism and hate. Encourage children to seek help from a trusted adult if they are discriminated against or witness an act of bullying or discrimination against others. Emphasize the value of treating others with respect and how simple acts of kindness can make a big difference.

 

Open lines of communication with teachers and staff are vital so parents can best advocate for their children’s education, health, and wellness. It’s helpful for parents to inform teachers about their child’s likes and dislikes, what their strengths and weaknesses are, how they learn the best, and any other issues that may affect learning. It is also important that teachers and staff are aware of any health conditions (asthma, anaphylaxis, and epilepsy, among others) that might require attention in the event of an emergency:

Plan ahead! As children head back to school, it’s important to have a written emergency care plan and to practice that plan as often as needed. The plan should include any medicines your child needs to take or any assistive devices used by your child, such as a motorized wheelchair or assistive communication device. Having conversations now with your child’s teacher about being prepared in an emergency can help reduce your concerns if an emergency does happen.

 

The AAP wants parents to remember:

Children are resilient and can overcome many challenges with the help of trusted adults around them. Talk with your pediatrician if you have any questions or concerns about your child’s health as the school year starts.

 

Read last week’s *Flashback Friday* for tips geared to help your college-bound student get the semester off to a blazing start.

The PediaBlog wishes all students, from pre-K to college, a happy, healthy, productive, and normal school year!

 

(Google Images)

 

source http://www.thepediablog.com/2022/08/22/back-to-school-whos-ready/