5 Ways to Boost Your Child's Health During Back to School Season

It’s officially Back to School season, and many parents are reasonably worried about the health of their kids. Not only is the COVID-19 pandemic still hovering in the background but it’s also cold and flu season. While sniffles happen, there are some things you can do to help reduce your child’s risk of getting sick. Here are a few ways you can help keep your kids safe and healthy this school season.

Get Your Flu Shot

Flu shots are now available for the season and it’s recommended that both parents and kids receive their shot. While the flu shot may not protect you against all influenza strains, it does reduce your risk of getting sick. A normal fever can range anywhere from 100.4 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit, and flu symptoms can have your kids missing out on school. What’s more, if you catch the flu yourself, that’s up to a week off of work that you won’t even be able to enjoy.

Get an Annual Check-Up

If your child hasn’t had their annual check-up yet, now is the time to do it. Approximately 8% of doctors are pediatricians and 11% are DOs. Regular check-ups with your child’s pediatrician can help detect and address any health conditions or concerns before they become a problem or impact your child’s development.

Get a Dental Check-Up

Other check-ups, such as dental check-ups, are also important. It’s recommended to visit the dentist approximately once every six months to prevent cavities and dental problems. While cavities may not seem like a big deal when your child is losing their baby teeth, up to 40% of kids going into kindergarten already have at least one cavity. Kids who have cavities in their baby teeth are more likely to develop them in their grown-up teeth, too.

Wear Clean Masks

It’s important to make sure that your child is wearing a clean mask when they’re in school. Cotton masks that are reusable are good to wear for a single day before they need to be washed in warm, soapy water. Non-cotton masks that are disposable ought to be thrown away after a single use.

Pack Healthy Snacks

Finally, another great way to help keep your child’s health in check is to make sure they’re eating healthy snacks. Apples, celery, carrots, and cheese sticks are all great not only because they’re high in vitamins and nutrients but also because they’re great for your child’s teeth. Blueberries and blackberries are also high in antioxidants, which can help boost your child’s immune system.

Now that Back to School season is officially here, your child may come into contact with more germs. But the good news is that, by following the tips above, you can reduce their risk (and your risk!) of getting sick this season.