As the school year commences, families are preparing for a new routine after summer break. Ensuring children’s health and safety is a top priority for parents. GoodRx, a platform for medication savings, has compiled pharmacist tips to help families achieve these goals.
Hand Hygiene and Immunizations
Teaching children the importance of handwashing is crucial for a healthy school year. They should wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially at key times such as before eating and after using the restroom. If a sink is not available, hand sanitizer is a suitable alternative.
Most individuals aged 6 months and older are eligible for flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Flu shots are recommended yearly, with September and October being ideal times for most children to receive them. It is essential to consult with a pediatrician or pharmacist to ensure children are up-to-date on other routine vaccines based on their age.
Back-to-School Physicals and Medications
Annual back-to-school physicals are vital to monitor children’s growth and development. These examinations can help identify potential health issues before they become severe problems. They also provide an opportunity to ensure children are current on their immunizations and to obtain refills for any necessary medications.
In the event of a child not feeling well, it is crucial to have over-the-counter (OTC) medications at home to manage symptoms. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) are helpful resources for lowering fever and relieving pain.
Mental Health and Sleep
School can be stressful for many children, and it is essential for parents to be aware of their mental health. Unfortunately, there is a growing rate of children and teens ending up in hospitals due to self-harm. Parents should look for warning signs, such as changes in behavior or mood, and seek help if necessary.
Adequate sleep is also vital for children’s health and focus. Research shows that a healthy sleep schedule can help prevent certain health conditions, such as Type 2 diabetes and obesity. Children aged 6-12 should aim for 9-12 hours of sleep, while teens aged 13-18 should aim for 8-10 hours.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
