Back-to-School Readiness: Are You and Your Kids Prepared?
August 10, 2026 | Tags:
Backpack ready? Check! Clothes picked out? Check! There are many items to check off your to-do list as you and your kids prepare for a new school year. And while supplies and classroom essentials top the list, don’t forget about your child’s physical and mental health.
Being proactive before the school year starts helps set you and your child up for success.
How to create healthy routines for your child
Transitioning back to school after summer can be tough on kids and parents alike. Having a routine provides a sense of safety, stability and predictability for everyone in your household, helping children feel more in control of their environment.
Validate feelings of stress or nervousness your child might have about starting a new school year as these are normal. Give praise when they complete each task to help build self-esteem and feelings of accomplishment. Some areas to instill healthy routines include:
- Mornings and bedtimes: For mornings, discuss clear expectations the night before and provide easy-to-follow steps for when your child wakes up. Have clothes, backpacks and lunches ready to go to avoid rushing. Schoolchildren ages 6-13 need nine to 11 hours of sleep per night. Stick to a consistent bedtime, even on weekends, to help regulate your child’s internal clock.
- Homework: Set regular homework time each day, keeping the work area clean and quiet. Suggest working in short 20-to-30-minute bursts, then taking a break. Have your child write down their assignments to stay organized and check off when completed.
- Physical activity: Children and teens ages 6 to 17 need a minimum of 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity daily. After school clubs, dance classes and organized sports help kids stay active and social while providing structure and consistency. Set time after school for riding bikes or taking a walk after dinner.
- Good hygiene: Stress the importance of maintaining good hygiene practices by bathing regularly, especially after sports or physical activities. Emphasize brushing teeth twice a day with a pea-size amount of toothpaste. Kids should comb or brush hair daily to prevent tangles; children with longer hair should learn to tie it back to help keep it clean.
- Screen time: Limit television or devices in the mornings and evenings. Set time limits on shows or video games at least one hour before bed. Create tech-free zones, like during meals or designated days throughout the week.
Get ahead by scheduling an annual checkup
A successful school year includes a back-to-school health check. Some school districts require specific health documents before your child returns to the classroom. Schedule an annual checkup early so you're ready before school starts. Your child's visit can include:
- Ensuring their vaccination schedule is up to date.
- Checking milestones for growth and development, like height and weight.
- Performing hearing and vision tests.
- Performing a physical exam, especially for participation in sports or other activities that might require a physical. Bring forms if your child plans to play.
- Mental health and wellness checks, including screenings for anxiety, depression or other emotional challenges.
- Confirming a diagnosis or support for ADHD, including medication treatment, setting up an IEP or 504 plan and additional resources.
A complete list is available on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website or by contacting your child's primary care provider (PCP).
How to keep your child healthy during the school year
Being around other classmates exposes your child's immune system to more germs, causing illnesses to quickly spread in school and in your home. Infestations can also happen in close quarters. Recognizing signs and symptoms of these conditions can help minimize their spread and aid in a faster recovery:
- Viral and bacterial infections: Some of these illnesses, like the common cold and influenza, have similar symptoms, so determining which is which can be difficult.
- Skin rashes: These are highly contagious, with some also causing flu-like symptoms. Conditions like measles can lead to life-threatening complications in young children.
- Head lice: This infestation is common and easy to spread around kids playing or napping together as well as through sharing hairbrushes or combs, helmets, hats or pillows. Signs of lice include an itchy scalp, feeling something moving in your hair and small bumps or sores from scratching.
Talk to your child's PCP to get a concrete diagnosis and treatment plan. If you suspect your child has measles, contact their PCP immediately.
Back-to-school pharmacy needs for parents
Stocking up on medications, supplies and other essentials ahead of the school year keeps you prepared to manage common health situations when they arise. Additionally, your child might need to take certain medications during school hours, so ask your pharmacist about providing an extra supply to keep at home and at school. Some essentials to be aware of can include:
- Over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, for fever and pain relief.
- Prescription medications, such as those for ADHD.
- Necessary allergy supplies, such as EpiPens®.
Talk to your child about the importance of taking certain medications properly and on a regular schedule. Teach them how to recognize the signs of an allergic reaction and respond safely.
Work with the school nurse to establish a plan for medication administration as well as providing an updated list of your child's current medications, dosages and instructions for use.
Helpful resources to support your child
Your child's PCP can help support their journey into the new school year. Discuss any health questions, concerns or recent changes to their physical, mental or emotional health. If your child has ADHD, additional resources are available to help support you as a parent or caregiver. Medical Mutual members have access to mental health resources through My Health Plan. You can also reach out to your PCP to help direct you to the right behavioral health professional.