Start the school year off on a high note

Whether your kids are starting the school year virtually, in-person or some combination of the two, there’s no doubt that back-to-school may look different for most families this year.

Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic recommends setting up a wellness visit to get your kids school-ready. You can make sure your child is up-to-date on all immunizations and speak to their pediatrician about their physical and emotional health going into the new school year.

We asked several experts and here are the top things parents can do:

• Don’t delay annual checkups and vaccinations
• Get your child vaccinated against COVID-19 if they are 12 or older
• Prioritize exercise and physical activity
• Maintain good, balanced nutrition habits
• Create and stick to a routine
• Monitor and limit screen time

As the pandemic continues, it is important to focus on their mental health and reducing stress where possible. Parents should keep an eye out for signs of anxiety and stress in their children and encourage them to talk about their concerns.

The St. Mary Children’s Health Center provides primary healthcare services for children newborn to age 18. If you need a primary care provider for the family, find a Family Medicine practice near you.