Now that the kids have been back in school for a few weeks, you may have already noticed that they are starting to pick up some germs here and there now that they are back in a crowded classroom after a couple of months out in the fresh air over summer break! With that in mind, let’s take a look at a few back-to-school health tips from your local pharmacy in Powell, TN.
Get Up to Date On Vaccinations
The start of the school year is a great time to ensure all of your child’s vaccinations are current. It is also a good idea to get a flu shot before flu season begins. Did you know you can get flu shots for the whole family at your local pharmacy in Powell, TN, without needing an appointment? Stop by Vaughn Pharmacy and talk to one of our pharmacists.
Stick to a Strict Bedtime
We have spoken before about the importance of getting a good night’s sleep, and this is especially important if you expect your child to be able to focus on a full day of learning! The first couple of months back at school can be a hectic time for kids and parents alike, so set s strict bedtime and stick to it to help give your child’s overall health and well-being a boost. While adults need around 8 hours of quality sleep, children need a little more. As a general guide, here is how much sleep kids of various ages require:
- Preschool Age - 10 to 13 hours
- School Age - 9 to 11 hours
- Teenagers - 8 to 10 hours
Practice Good Hygiene
There is no escaping the fact that schools are breeding grounds for germs! Considering how many children are touching every surface daily, it is no surprise that colds and other bugs often spread like wildfire through classrooms! One of the best ways to address this issue is to encourage your child to wash their hands frequently. They should wash their hands whenever they go to the restroom, before eating, and when they return to class following recess. It may also be a good idea to ensure they have hand sanitizer for an extra layer of protection. You can pick up a bottle at your local pharmacy in Powell, TN. While you are there, you may also want to pick up a pack of tissues to encourage proper management of sneezes!
Be Vigilant for Head Lice
Head lice is another common problem that rears its ugly head during the back-to-school season! It is important to instill in your child the importance of not sharing their comb, hats, or hair accessories with each other. It is also a good idea to check your child’s hair at least once weekly for signs of lice. Get to know the common signs, like excessive scratching of the scalp and the appearance of eggs resembling a sesame seed at the root of the hair; if you do find evidence of lice in your child’s hair, head straight to your local pharmacy in Powell, TN, to pick up the supplies you will need to tackle them! Don’t forget you must treat all close contacts - so get enough for the whole family!
Make Sure You Are Prepared for Emergencies
If your child has any additional health needs or takes medication on a regular basis, you must make sure the school is fully informed of any emergency steps they might need to take. This is especially important if your child has any allergies requiring an epi-pen, or may need an inhaler, or help with diabetes treatment. Make sure you take extra medication to leave with the school nurse if necessary. Talk to a pharmacist at your local pharmacy in Powell, TN, and they can help you to come up with a clear and well-thought-out plan to give to the school in order to make sure your child gets the appropriate care in case of a health emergency like an asthma attack or anaphylactic reaction. It is also a good idea to make sure all of your emergency contact information held by the school office is updated.
Be Mindful of Mental Health
As a parent, it is not just your child’s physical health that you need to consider. You should also pay attention to their emotional and mental well-being. Unfortunately, bullying is still a huge concern in schools, especially via social media. In addition to this, children are also facing a great deal of pressure to achieve academic success leading to more children suffering from anxiety than in previous years. Create an open and supportive environment for them to discuss their feelings and concerns. Be aware of signs of stress or anxiety and offer appropriate support or seek professional help if needed.
These are just a few steps you can take to ensure your child has a happy and healthy school year. If you have any concerns about your child’s health, don’t forget that you can call your local pharmacy in Powell, TN, and get some advice from our friendly team of pharmacists.
Your Hometown Pharmacy Since 1966
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Vaughn Pharmacy is a local, family-owned pharmacy serving the community in Powell, TN. Specializing in providing personalized and attentive prescription programs to our patients, we believe you are more than just a number – you’re part of our family!
(865) 947-1581