Back to School

A little preparation gives you and your kids peace of mind as the big day nears

by Robin Hoogshagen, R.Ph.

Summer is winding down, the days are getting shorter, and back-to-school sales are hitting stores across the country. It's a time of year that many children approach with excitement and trepidation -- the new school year.

But there are many things parents can do to help ease the stress. Remember, kids may be facing new classmates, new teachers, and maybe even a new school. A little planning can go a long way toward helping children feel prepared to face new situations.

Make sure all immunization and checkup requirements are met

Many schools require that children have an annual physical and proof of current immunizations before allowing them to join classes. Pediatricians' and physicians' offices are inundated with last-minute calls from harried parents trying to squeeze their children in. Make it easier on you and your children by scheduling appointments early.

If you have small children, review safety rules

Whether riding the bus, walking, or biking to school, there are important safety rules your kids should keep in mind as they head out the door:

• When waiting for the bus, children should stay on the curb until the bus comes to a full stop and the driver indicates it's safe to board.
• When kids exit a bus, they should take several giant steps away from it so the driver can see them as he or she pulls away.
• If riding a bike, kids should follow all traffic signals, and never cross the street against a light. Remind kids to walk bikes through intersections, and stay alert for drivers who may be rushing to work and not paying attention to bike and pedestrian traffic as they should.
• If walking, kids should meet up with a buddy, when possible. Even better, have an older child escort a younger child.
• And whether riding the bus, biking, or walking to school, kids should never talk to or accept rides from strangers.

Talk to your kids about bullies

The American Academy of Pediatrics urges parents to give their children some coping strategies for dealing with bullies. For example, kids can just walk away from a bully, or tell him or her to stop. If a persistent problem occurs, parents should consider having a talk with the teacher.

Most importantly, kids need to know that they have someone they can go to if they feel they're in a situation they can't handle.

Prepping for the first day

Many parents take advantage of back-to-school sales to stock up on clothes for the school year. But what other items should be on your checklist as you count down to the big day?

• School supplies -- Usually schools provide parents with a list of necessary school and art supplies in advance. Have your children help pick out their own school supplies so they feel part of the process, and this will help build enthusiasm.
• Lunch -- What are your children's plans for lunch? Make sure there is lunch food at home, or money for the cafeteria.
• Emergency contact information -- Make sure your children's school has updated emergency contact information for both parents, and a close relative or family friend, in case of an emergency.
• Healthy breakfast -- Don't underestimate the power of a good breakfast. Studies show that kids are more alert and learn better if they've eaten breakfast before school. And if your children balk at traditional breakfast food, that's okay -- a peanut butter and jelly sandwich or slice of pizza will work. Throw in a multivitamin, and your children are set for a day of learning.
• Consider visiting the school in advance, if possible, to make sure your children know the route and can find their classroom. Even better -- take your children to meet their teachers beforehand so they can put a face with a name so they're not walking into the classroom "cold" on the first day.

Make sure you have an after-school plan that everyone is comfortable with

With many parents working today, after-school programs and baby sitters are part of a regular school day for many kids. Review the routine with your children, and make sure your after-school care provider has emergency contact information for you.

If your children are going home after school, and will be there for an hour two by themselves before a parent is home, review the safety rules -- check in by phone with an adult upon reaching home, don't answer the door to strangers when home alone, and know how to call 911 in an emergency.

The new school year can be an exciting and stressful time for both children and parents, but early preparation will benefit everyone. Most importantly, children can enter any new situation and thrive if they're confident in the support of a loving family.

Robin Hoogshagen, R.Ph., is a Wal-Mart pharmacist in Bentonville, Ark.

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