Dr. Kaye’s five tips to prepare for the new school year

Dr. Meagan Kaye, MD, is a Paediatrician at William Osler Health System (Osler) dedicated to caring for children and supporting their families through all stages of life. She completed her Paediatrics residency at McMaster University and is actively involved in quality improvement projects that are aimed at enhancing patient care and optimizing clinical processes.

With the new school year upon us, Osler’s Dr. Kaye, shares her tips on easing your family’s transition to the back-to-school routine:

Re-establish a sleep schedule

Consistent, quality sleep improves concentration, memory and mood. To help re-establish a sleep schedule after late summer nights and mornings, gradually begin adjusting bedtime and wake-up time a few weeks before school starts. Aim for nine to twelve hours of sleep for children under twelve, and eight to ten hours for teens.

Schedule health check-ups

To support a healthy year ahead, ensure immunizations, vision screenings, dental and doctor appointments are completed before school starts. If needed, make sure all medication refills (e.g. EpiPens, inhalers, etc.) are up-to-date.

Plan nutritious meals and snacks

Balanced nutrition fuels learning and energy. Have a plan for a few easy go-to healthy breakfast and lunch ideas ahead of the first day of school. Pro tip: involve your kids in meal prep as a fun family activity!

Teach and practice good hygiene habits

Germs spread easily in schools, especially in early grades and fall is also the start of flu season. Reinforce hygiene habits including handwashing before and after washroom use, covering coughs and sneezes with one’s elbow and not sharing personal items like water bottles.

Support emotional and mental health

Anxiety and stress can be common during transition times, especially after long breaks. Remember to stay positive when talking about school routines, establish after-school “cool-down” time for unwinding, and if possible, visit the school or meet teachers in advance.