Parents and children hope for some much-needed normalcy as a new school year begins. But we are still dealing with COVID-19 variants, not to mention flu season is fast approaching with the fall’s cooler weather, so it’s no surprise everyone has concerns.
To help lighten the stress of going back to school, at Supreme Care ER, we’ve put together a few tips to help you get organized and cover as many bases as possible to help keep your kids safe.
At Supreme Care ER the finest emergency room in Cypress Texas near Jersey Village, we’re happy to provide you with the emergency care that you need in the event of a medical emergency.
Ease into a Bedtime and Wake-Up Routine in Advance
Our first of our back-to-school tips for moms & dads is establishing a good sleep regime. During summer break, everyone in your household likely got used to going to bed a little later and sleeping a little more in the mornings.
But now that school is starting, you need to ease back into your early-to-bed, early-to-rise routine to ensure everyone gets enough rest and you have plenty of time to get ready and have breakfast before leaving for school.
We advise you to start the routine a few days before the return to school so everyone has time to adjust.
Meal Prep for the Week
Balanced nutrition is essential to your kid’s health. Organize yourself so you can meal prep as many meals as possible for the week ahead. This way, you can minimize the amount of junk food your kids consume.
Make a Weekly To-Do List
Many accidents around the home and while driving occur because we are rushing to get things done or running to be somewhere.
Having a to-do list and planning your day can help you and your family organize to avoid rushing and getting injured.
A to-do list can also help you remember important appointments and after-school engagements, relieving stress and feelings of guilt.
Instill a Safety-First Mindset in Your Household
Although Supreme Care ER is always here to assist you during an emergency, we firmly believe that safety is always the best policy.
To help prevent accidents, teach your children to be aware of their surroundings. For instance, teach them to:
- Put their phones away when going up or down the stairs.
- Pay attention when crossing roads
- Look out for spills and obstacles on the floor
- Wear protective gear when playing contact sports, skating, or riding their bikes
If you have small children, help them memorize their name and yours, where they live, and your phone number or the number of another responsible adult.
Consider Vaccinating Your Kids
We urge you to please consider vaccinating your children.
COVID-19 is still amongst us, but thankfully this year, vaccines are available for all children six months and older.
Make sure your children are up to date with all their vaccines, including the flu shot. As the weather cools down, indoor activities increase, making your kids more susceptible to catching respiratory viruses like influenza, which is responsible for the flu.
Texas has minimum vaccine requirements for students, which include:
- Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis
- Polio
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella
- Hepatitis B
- Varicella
- Meningococcal
- Hepatitis A
Vaccinating your children can help reduce their risk of developing severe illnesses, so please follow up with your children’s vaccination schedule.
Remind them of Safety Rules Outside the Home
Engaging in an open and comprehensive discussion with your child about safety rules is paramount to ensuring their well-being both at school and during their commute. Begin by addressing the concept of stranger danger and the importance of not talking to or going with strangers, regardless of the circumstances. Teach them to always stay in groups when moving around and to seek help from a trusted adult if they ever feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
Road safety is another vital aspect to cover. Teach your child the proper procedures for crossing roads, such as using crosswalks, looking both ways, and waiting for traffic signals. Emphasize the significance of being patient and cautious while walking or biking to and from school. If your child takes the bus, educate them on bus safety rules, such as staying seated while the bus is in motion and following the driver’s instructions.
Discussing emergency situations is equally crucial. Teach your child how to handle various types of emergencies, including natural disasters, accidents, and health-related issues. Make sure they know important contact numbers, such as your phone number, a trusted neighbor’s number, and emergency services.
Encourage your child to be observant of their surroundings and trust their instincts. Role-playing scenarios can help them practice responding to unfamiliar or challenging situations, enabling them to react confidently and appropriately. By having these conversations, you empower your child with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate potential risks, make informed decisions, and prioritize their safety in any situation. Remember to reassure them that they can always come to you with questions or concerns, fostering an ongoing dialogue about safety.
Talk About Bullying with Your Kids
Explain to your children what bullies are and how to properly deal with them. Then, make them feel comfortable discussing peer abuse with you, their teachers, and their counselor.
It’s also important to teach them how their words and actions can harm others and how it’s important for them to always act kindly and respectfully toward other students.
Plan for Unforeseen Events
While we hope for the best, it’s wise to plan for unforeseen events. Familiarize yourself with the nearest medical facilities, such as Supreme Care ER, in case of medical emergencies.
Remember, the well-being and safety of your child are the top priorities. By staying organized, communicating effectively, and being prepared, you can ensure that the back-to-school season goes smoothly for both you and your child.
Returning to school should always be a joyous experience for both children and parents. So, help make this return to class memorable with a bit of planning and a good dose of positivity.
As you plan to ensure the safety of everyone in your home, make sure to add Supreme Care ER to the list of emergency contacts. Our experienced and caring doctors are always here to help you when you need us most.
