FOR BACK TO SCHOOL

By Dr. Tariq Jagnarine – Family Medicine, Endocrinology & Diabetes

A new school year brings excitement, opportunity, and fresh beginnings. To make the most of it, both families and schools must collaborate to ensure that children are healthy, safe, and well-prepared to learn. Here are some health tips for parents, teachers, and schools to help create a strong foundation for the year ahead.

FOR PARENTS & FAMILIES
Nutrition Matters
• Start with breakfast: Fuels concentration and energy. Options include oatmeal, fruit, or eggs.
• Healthy lunches: Balance proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Limit sugary snacks and sodas.
• Hydration: Encourage kids to carry reusable water bottles.
Prioritize Sleep
• Kids need proper rest:
• 6–12 years: 9–12 hours
• Teens: 8–10 hours
• Create screen-free wind-down time before bed.
Germ Protection
• Practice handwashing routines at home.
• Keep children home when sick.
• Ensure vaccinations are up to date.
Backpack Safety
• Keep bags light (no more than 10–15% of body weight).
• Choose padded straps and always use both shoulders.
Emotional Health
• Talk about feelings, peer pressure, and stress.
• Watch for signs of anxiety or withdrawal.
• Normalize asking for help from adults.

FOR TEACHERS
Promote a Healthy Classroom
• Reinforce hand hygiene and cover-your-cough practices.
• Allow students to refill water bottles throughout the day.
• Ensure proper ventilation in classrooms.
Support Mental Well-Being
• Create a welcoming environment where students feel safe to express themselves.
• Be alert to changes in behavior: irritability, lack of focus, or withdrawal.
• Encourage kindness, inclusivity, and peer support.
Encourage Healthy Movement
• Incorporate short stretch breaks or brain breaks during lessons.
• Promote participation in sports, clubs, or active play.
Watch for Warning Signs
• Eye strain: squinting at the board or books
• Hearing problems: difficulty following instructions
• Emotional distress: frequent absences, decline in grades, or changes in friendships

FOR SCHOOLS
Health & Safety Policies
• Review school health policies before reopening.
• Ensure sick bays are functional and stocked.
• Partner with local health authorities for vaccination drives or vision/hearing screenings.
Healthy Environment
• Provide access to clean drinking water.
• Encourage healthy canteen/snack shop options.
• Reduce exposure to junk food advertisements within the school.
Hygiene & Cleanliness
• Regularly disinfect high-touch surfaces.
• Maintain clean bathrooms with soap and water.
• Promote waste disposal in designated bins.
School-Wide Mental Health Support
• Train teachers to recognize early signs of anxiety or bullying.
• Provide access to guidance counselors or referral systems.
• Develop anti-bullying programs and peer support networks.
Safety Measures
• Ensure safe pedestrian crossings, school zone markings, and security at gates.
• Establish clear emergency protocols for fire, natural disasters, or health emergencies.
• For older students, include workshops on safe internet and social media use.
Healthy children learn better—and schools thrive when teachers and families work together. With the right balance of good nutrition, proper rest, hygiene, safety, and emotional support, this school year can be not just successful but also empowering for every child.