Ten Back-to-School Tips for Students and Parents

Wayne County students go back to school on Wednesday, August 12th, and there are a lot of things parents must think about in addition to new school clothes and school supplies. Here are ten tips to keep in mind as the new school year kicks off.

1. Keep Vaccinations Up to Date

Vaccinations help protect children and the communities around them from preventable illnesses. Before the school year begins, check with your child’s pediatrician and school district to make sure required immunizations are up to date. Recommendations can change, so families should confirm current requirements and discuss recommended vaccines – including seasonal vaccines like influenza and COVID-19 – with their health care provider.

2. Reinforce Good Hygiene

School means close contact with others, so handwashing is essential. Teach your child to wash hands with soap and water – before eating, after using the restroom and after coughing or sneezing. Provide hand sanitizer for when sinks aren’t available, and remind them to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow.

3. Fuel with Balanced Nutrition

A well-nourished child is better prepared to learn, focus and participate throughout the school day. Start the day with a nutritious breakfast including whole grains, protein and fruit. Pack balanced lunches and snacks, limiting highly processed foods and sugary drinks when possible. Good nutrition supports immunity, energy levels and overall health.

4. Practice Allergy Awareness

If your child has allergies, work with the school to ensure teachers and the nurse know what to do in an emergency. Provide necessary medications and review safety steps with your child. Even if your child doesn’t have allergies, teach them not to share food, snacks, or medicine with classmates. Ask about school allergy policies – such as nut-free zones – to help protect all students.

5. Encourage Daily Physical Activity

Regular movement benefits physical health, mood and sleep. Encourage sports, recess, or simply playing outside after school. Aim for 60 minutes of activity each day to build healthy habits and reduce stress. As temperatures remain high, remind children to drink water regularly, take breaks during outdoor activities and recognize signs of heat-related illness.

6. Support Mental Health

The start of a school year can bring anxiety, especially with new classes, teachers, or social situations. Check in with your child often and encourage open conversation about how they’re feeling. If you notice ongoing stress, anxiety, or signs of depression, seek help from a counselor or mental health professional.

7. Set Healthy Sleep Routines

Sleep is critical for learning and mood. In the weeks before school starts, shift bedtime earlier so kids get adequate rest – 9-12 hours for younger children and 8-10 for teens. Encourage healthy technology habits by setting boundaries around screen time, social media use and device-free times, especially before bed. A consistent schedule can improve focus and energy levels throughout the day.

8. Practice Backpack Safety

Keep backpacks lightweight and avoid overloading them. A backpack should fit properly, have wide padded straps and be worn with both straps. If your child experiences back, neck or shoulder pain, adjust the fit or reduce the load.

9. Review Bus and Pedestrian Safety

If your child takes the bus, teach them to wait safely away from the curb, board only after the bus stops and cross in front where the driver can see them. For walkers, practice the route, use sidewalks when possible and stay alert – no headphones or phone distractions when crossing streets.

10. Know School Health Policies

Stay informed on your school’s illness and safety protocols. Know when your child should stay home due to illness and when it’s safe to return to school. Many schools provide guidance on symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhea and contagious illnesses. When in doubt, contact your child’s health care provider or school nurse. Be aware of any rules around hygiene, mask use, or preventive measures so you can reinforce them at home.

By focusing on these safety and health basics, you can help your child – and their classmates – enjoy a healthier, more successful school year. Preparation, communication and awareness go a long way toward protecting your child’s well-being, both inside and outside the classroom.