SALT LAKE CITY — Kids are settling back into the school routine, meeting new friends and diving into new experiences. But along with that excitement, there’s one conversation parents can’t afford to skip.

Our friends at Parents Empowered suggest starting chats about underage drinking early and keeping them going, so kids feel informed, supported and ready to make healthy choices.

For Marli Lloyd, catching up with her boys is more than a routine; it’s her favorite part of the day.

“My second one is Xander. He’s 16. Third is Wyatt. He’s 13. My baby is 11 and his name is Grayson,” Lloyd said.

As the new school year kicks off, her family’s schedule is packed with classes, sports and social events.

“They were excited to go back because of a structured schedule, but I think more social, right?” Lloyd said.

That’s exactly why experts say now is the perfect time to check in with real talk about the risks of underage drinking.

Sierra Marsh works with families across the Murray School District. She said having a connection between children and their parents is key.

“That builds a lot of trust in relationships with your kids, which opens the door for meaningful conversations about hard things,” Marsh said.

Lloyd agreed. She’s found that asking questions can lead to powerful insights.

“What was something hard today? What was something fun today? What was the best part of today?” Lloyd said.

And here’s something every parent should know: Studies show that when kids believe their parents strongly disapprove of underage drinking, only about 2% will actually do it.

Lloyd said it’s not just about saying don’t drink, it’s about explaining why.

“My 16-year-old and my 19-year-old, they definitely need to know these are the reasons, not just because I said so,” she said.

Experts say alcohol can affect memory, learning and decision making – especially in developing brains.

“Our brains are still developing until our mid-20s, so it’s important to protect those brains for as long as we can,” Marsh said.

Marsh encourages parents to stay involved, and if their teen finds themselves in a tough spot, make a plan beforehand.

Lloyd said she asks questions like, “If your friend that was driving you drinks, and you saw that, what do you do?”

“You can call mom. Even if you know that I might be mad … I want you to call me,” Lloyd said.

Parents not in this alone. Parents Embowered’s website is packed with tools, tips and conversation starters to help you guide your kids toward an alcohol-free future.

Few things change day-to-day life within a family like that week when the kids go back to school. From the time you get up until the time you go to bed, no minutes go untouched by a return to the classroom and fall activities.

How can parents and kids make this transition as gracefully as possible? We asked JoLynn Azure, M.D., a family doctor at Sanford Highway 2 Clinic in Minot, North Dakota, to help us prepare for this exciting and challenging time of the year.

There are ways to reduce the stress and help your child make the transition. An important first step as a parent is realizing and understanding, along with your children, that it’s time to get down to business. Sometimes that’s not so easy.

“You’re still in summer mode,” Dr. Azure said. “You’re not ready for school to start.”

All the more reason to get going on a preparation process that includes the whole family.

JoLynn Azure, M.D.

Easing kids’ worries

Your child may have a variety of fears about school starting. Common fears in elementary school include separation from parents, not making friends and getting lost. These fears are normal.

As a parent, you might also have some fears and worries about your child starting school. Be sure to manage your own stress to ensure you don’t pass it on to your child.

Listen to your child’s worries without being dismissive. Instead of saying, “There is nothing to worry about. You’ll be fine,” try saying, “I know that’s hard. I can see you feel scared because …”

Be sure your child knows it is OK to be nervous or worried.

Early to bed, early to rise

Eliminating or lessening some common back-to-school issues can be as simple or as difficult as going to bed earlier.

“A lot of parents have some trouble with their children and bedtime,” Dr. Azure said. “So it’s best to start on that a week or two before school starts and start going to bed at the same time every night.”

Establishing a routine that starts earlier can begin with an earlier supper. All that follows – turning off the TV, putting away the electronic stuff, brushing teeth, etc. – can also start a little earlier.

“Making sure you’re getting up at the same time every day can really help the body transition into the school year,” Dr. Azure said. “If your kids were going to bed at 11 p.m. and you want them to go to bed at 8 p.m., it’s not going to happen overnight. It can be a good idea to move bedtime up by 15 or 30 minutes a night trying to get to that ideal bedtime.”

Eating right

Nutrition that helps a child get through a day with adequate energy is a worthy target. That applies to the summer as well, of course, but it becomes more important when school starts.

“A lot of times kids and parents eat a lot more treats and candy during the summer,” Dr. Azure said. “Getting back to the fruits and vegetables is a good idea. It can help to replace the sugary snacks that might be out on your countertop with peaches and strawberries. It can be a way to redirect your family’s diet.”

Back-to-school transition tips

Use the following tips and suggestions to make the transition back to school successful for your child.

Take a tour. Help your child get comfortable with the school and the classroom. If possible, visit or take a tour of the classroom. If you can’t get into the building, make time for your child to play on the playground. “It can be very helpful to know where the classrooms are even if it’s the same school as last year,” Dr. Azure said. “Make sure you go to the orientation the school is offering so you can help your kids understand where they need to be that first day.”

Help your child get comfortable with the school and the classroom. If possible, visit or take a tour of the classroom. If you can’t get into the building, make time for your child to play on the playground. “It can be very helpful to know where the classrooms are even if it’s the same school as last year,” Dr. Azure said. “Make sure you go to the orientation the school is offering so you can help your kids understand where they need to be that first day.” Talk with your child. Find out what they are excited about and worried about. Include your child in brainstorming ways to make this transition easier. Try saying, “Let’s think of some ways I can help make going back to school easier for you.”

Find out what they are excited about and worried about. Include your child in brainstorming ways to make this transition easier. Try saying, “Let’s think of some ways I can help make going back to school easier for you.” Establish morning routines. Consistency and predictability will eliminate stress. Start the morning routine a few days before school starts. Your child may benefit from a picture schedule showing the morning tasks such as getting dressed, eating breakfast and brushing teeth. Let your child draw pictures of each morning task and help in deciding where to hang the morning schedule.

Consistency and predictability will eliminate stress. Start the morning routine a few days before school starts. Your child may benefit from a picture schedule showing the morning tasks such as getting dressed, eating breakfast and brushing teeth. Let your child draw pictures of each morning task and help in deciding where to hang the morning schedule. Practice runs. Try practice runs to see how long it takes to drive your child to school. If your child walks to school or to the bus stop, walk it together to learn the route and the time needed.

Try practice runs to see how long it takes to drive your child to school. If your child walks to school or to the bus stop, walk it together to learn the route and the time needed. Prepping the night before. Have clothes picked out and lunches packed the evening before. Designate a location for morning items such as school bags, shoes and coats. Help prepare your child by talking about the morning routine the night before.

Healthy habits for all

“In addition to proper rest and diet, do what you can to make sure you and your children have the best chance to avoid getting sick – do a lot of handwashing and make sure they cover their mouths when they cough,” Dr. Azure said. “Putting a bottle of hand sanitizer in the backpack can also be a good idea.”

An annual well child check will keep your children updated on immunization, no matter when you do it. Summer can be a smart time to schedule it, however.

“Routine health maintenance is the goal of any provider,” Dr. Azure said. “Checking in once year during the summer means you can address all your child’s labs, immunizations and any other health concerns as you go into the school year.”

It is important to remember the school year is not all about the kids. Healthy choices are in the best interest of those who are looking out for the kids, too.

“Sometimes parents forget themselves,” Dr. Azure said. “Their health can easily get out of control with the wrong diet or not seeking care for some health conditions. Parents want to make sure they’re drinking their water and eating their fruits and vegetables so the kids can mimic those health habits.”

Learn more

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Posted In Back to School, Behavioral Health, Children’s, Family Medicine, Parenting

(StatePoint) It’s back to school time and there is so much for families to do to get ready for the school year ahead, from getting school supplies to signing up for after school programs. Making sure kids have health care needs covered should be a part of those preparations.

Free or low-cost health insurance through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) can help children be prepared for the school year. When enrolled, kids up to age 19 have access to a comprehensive range of health services, including well-child and sick visits, emergency visits, dental and vision care, behavioral health care and more.

If a kid needs a physical for afterschool activities, it’s covered. If a child has a fever, the doctor’s visit and prescriptions to get them back to school are covered. If a child has an accident, the emergency care they need to get back on their feet is covered.

When kids have health insurance, they are less likely to miss school due to sick days, less likely to be distracted by pain or vision problems, and more likely to be able to focus on learning. This leads to more participation in the classroom and a better chance of finishing high school.

Medicaid and CHIP Support Students

Whether a child is learning their ABCs or getting ready to earn their high school diploma, access to health care services at any stage of schooling keeps them healthy. Having health insurance can help connect families with a consistent health care provider, which means having a doctor or practice to call for preventive treatment, annual physicals or sick visits. It can also reduce emergency room visits and hospitalizations. Medicaid and CHIP cover more than 37 million children and teens across the United States.

The ABCs of Getting Insured with Medicaid and CHIP

Enrollment is open year-round, meaning families don’t have to wait for a special time of the year to get covered. Medicaid and CHIP eligibility varies by state, depending on family income and household size. In most states, children up to age 19 with a family income of up to $80,000 per year (for a family of four) may qualify. Families can apply online, over the phone, by mail, or in-person with their state’s Medicaid office or visit the “Find Coverage for Your Family” section on InsureKidsNow.gov. Coverage must be renewed each year, and it’s important for families to make sure their address, email, and phone number stay up to date with their state Medicaid office so they can receive communications about important renewal information. For more information, call 1-877-KIDS-NOW (1-877-543-7669).

Communities can work together to make sure children get the health care they need to succeed this school year.

Information provided by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.

The beginning of the school year brings busy schedules, routine adjustments, and—for many—lots of stress.

Recently, the Surgeon General released an advisory calling attention to parents’ and caregivers’ stress and mental health concerns. The statement pointed out that 48% of parents say that most days their stress is completely overwhelming.

Being prepared, mindful, and having the necessary tools to organize your family routines can help reduce your stress and anxiety.

That’s why we’ve created a go-to guide with resources and advice from experts—to help you feel prepared as the school year begins, including tips on:

1. Managing Anxiety During the School Year

A lot of parents, teachers, kids, and administrators are understandably excited, cautious, and anxious.

Panic Attack vs. Anxiety Panic attacks and anxiety aren’t exactly

the same thing. Here’s how to tell the difference and when to seek care.

Panic attacks and anxiety aren’t exactlythe same thing. Here’s how to tell the difference and when to seek care. Will schools be safe? How should parents, students, and teachers manage their anxiety and excitement? And what environment should they expect in the first few months upon returning? Our child psychology and school administration experts share advice for parents. For parents, project confidence to your kids

Make school return a positive, collective mission

Teachers, staff, and students can benefit from supporting each other

Be alert for signs of substance abuse

Ensure a fun environment

READ: Ways to combat anxiety

REMINDER: If your child is experiencing a mental health emergency, the new Brighter Days Pediatric Mental Health Urgent Care Center is now open. As the area’s first-ever walk-in mental health clinic for young people up to the age of 18, you can show up with no prior appointment to get care.

2. Adjusting to a New Routine

Allison Stiles, PhD, a child and adolescent psychologist, provides tips on how parents can help make the transition to back-to-school easier: Lean into structure and routine

Listen to your child

Communicate with your child’s school

For those with teenagers, child and adolescent psychologist Dr. Melissa Heatly weighs in. “Your job as a parent is to validate your teens and listen to them,” said Dr. Heatly. She reminds parents they shouldn’t try to fix their kids. Parents will notice that teens are fixated on what to wear, what they will bring to school, and other things that may not seem like a big deal to others. Allow them to have a healthy fixation, but if you notice they are over-fixating, try a distraction like taking them for ice cream.

“You may also notice your teen has lots of big feelings. Be there for them, listen to them, and let their feelings flow.”

If you are concerned about your child’s anxiety or mental health, reach out to your pediatrician.

3. Mastering Mealtime

For many families, encouraging their children to eat nutritious foods can be a hurdle. And the hustle and bustle of the new school year can make it even more difficult.

April Ho, RD, CPT, dietitian manager at UR Medicine’s Center for Community Health & Prevention, provides tips for parents on how they can reduce the stress of mealtimes and help their kids get the nutrients their growing bodies need.

Healthy Lunch Ideas Need a new, fun lunch idea for your kids? Kat McNamara, PAC, creates a balanced lunch and a fun snack for your children. Healthy snack and lunch ideas Mindful Dinner Time Reminders Find out ways to restore joy, peace, and meaning to the act of eating – even within a culture that constantly has us scrambling. Mindful meals in a fast-paced world

4. Staying Active

Even small bursts of physical activity can make a big difference in a child’s mood and focus—especially during the school year, when long periods of sitting can take a toll. “Fitness is medicine when it comes to attention span, learning, and physically feeling well,” says Zach Ferrara, URMC Fitness Science Exercise Specialist.

Encourage your child to move in ways that feel fun and manageable. That could be starting the day with a morning warm up or yoga, stretching between homework assignments, or taking a short walk before dinner. Even better, make it a family habit!

Simple fitness tips for a busy schedule

5. Setting a Sleep Schedule

Another important aspect of a healthy routine is good sleep. UR Medicine sleep experts Dr. Jonathan Marcus and Dr. Elizabeth Nocera offer sleep hygiene tips to help you make restful nights a priority.

Don’t oversleep Keep a consistent, healthy sleep routine Exercise regularly Make your bedroom comfortable Don’t lay in bed unless you’re tired If you’re having trouble sleeping, avoid checking the time

Tips for a healthy sleep routine

Did you know? Exposure to blue light from phones, tablets, and TVs can delay melatonin release, making it harder to fall and stay asleep. Encourage screen-free time at least one hour before bed to help the brain wind down naturally and support more restful, uninterrupted sleep.

6. FAQs: Answering Parents Pressing Questions

Our experts answer your common questions as you prepare for the new school year.

Should my child get their physical before school?

If your child is overdue for their annual physical , be sure to schedule it as soon as possible. Schools want to verify that students are healthy and are receiving care from a doctor. To help keep all students healthy and safe, they also want to be sure that students’ immunizations are up to date, and that proper screenings (like blood pressure, vision testing, and hearing testing) have taken place.

What if I can’t get a physical scheduled in time for the beginning of the school year?

Talk to the nurse at your child’s school. School nurses usually provide some leeway for students who can’t get their physicals scheduled in time for the beginning of the school year.

What immunizations (shots) does my child need for school?

Many parents have questions about immunizations. UR Medicine recommends immunizing children according to the Centers for Disease Control immunization schedule and American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines, and we provide accurate information to families who are hesitant about immunizations or who have questions about them.

Vaccines are required for children to attend school in New York State unless there is a medical reason, determined by your child’s doctor, why a specific vaccine cannot be given. (In New York State, there are no nonmedical or religious exemptions for required shots for school.)

My kid is going off to college. What if they get sick while away?

For college students, telemedicine offers easy access to care when juggling busy class schedules or unable to get an appointment at the student health center. Plus, telehealth services are often more affordable than doctor appointments or even urgent care visits.

UR Medicine Virtual Urgent Care is open to anyone currently located in New York or Florida—including college students—allowing them to see a healthcare professional from anywhere on campus.

Pediatrics at UR Medicine Golisano Children’s Hospital is committed to providing exceptional and compassionate care to your child and family. Our goal is to work with you as a team, keep you involved and always be responsive to your child’s health care needs. Meet Our Team

#1. School Forms and Medication Plans

Before school starts back up, parents need to make sure everything is in order for their child when it comes to their health care needs. Usually, this starts with the school.

Have you completed all the paperwork? Like if your child needs medications at school, have you scheduled an appointment with your child’s doctor to make sure that you have the appropriate medications and paperwork done for your child to have their medications administered or be allowed to carry them at school? This is especially important for kids who need ADHD medications given at school, or if your child has asthma and needs to have an albuterol inhaler. If your child has allergies that require an EpiPen, does the school know about this, and have you completed those forms? If your child has special dietary needs, have you gotten that specific form completed?

There are a bunch of forms, and many parents don’t think about these things until after the school year has started. And then it’s a rush to try to get to the pediatrician to get all this taken care of. With how many kids we see on a daily basis, it’s better to get those forms and prescriptions done before the school year starts. Also, you normally need to do those every year. The forms don’t carry over from year to year. So plan ahead.

#2. Designate an Emergency Contact—and Tell Your Child Who It Is

The school will also ask, in addition to filling out forms on your child’s health care, that an emergency contact be listed in case you, as the parent, are not available. Make sure that your child knows who this emergency contact is.

#3. Make Sure Vaccines Are Up to Date Before School Starts

Next are vaccines. Every year, we have families that scramble to get vaccines done, often because they have not come in for their well-child visits on time, and then they usually have to have visits with their providers, not just quick nurse visits. The schools usually give a little leeway. But after a certain date, they won’t let the kids come back to school unless their vaccines are updated. We see it every year. If you make sure your child has their well visit every year, this won’t be an issue.

#4. Schedule a Well-Child Visit That Covers Vision

Well child exams also include vision screening. Every year, we find that there are kids who really can’t see well. Your child would need an additional visit to an optometrist to get their prescription for glasses if that is the case.

#5. Catch Up on Dental Visits

And don’t forget about dental visits. It’s easier to get them in during the summer, when you don’t need to worry about taking your child out of school for an appointment.

#6. Ease Back Into School Sleep and Screen Time Routines

Sleep schedules are usually way off during the summer for most kids. So, gradually get them back into their school bedtime routine and wake them early enough to give them adequate time to get ready in the morning. This is also going to affect screen time. Many kids get a lot more screen time during the summer than they do during the school year. So they are going to need to start weaning down on that as well. Two hours or less per day is the goal, and it shouldn’t start until after school work has been completed.

#7. Check Your Child’s Backpack Fit and Weight

If your child will be carrying a backpack, make sure that it’s not too heavy and that they use both shoulder straps, not just one. Make sure the straps fit properly, too, so it’s not too big and it’s not too tight.

#8. Review School Sick Day Rules

We see a big increase in illnesses about two weeks after school starts every year. So make sure you review with your school what their policies are about sick days and when your child will need to see a doctor before returning to school.

#9. Ask Your Child How They Feel About the Upcoming School Year

Finally, check in with your child’s mental health. How are they feeling about the upcoming school year? Are they excited, anxious? Make sure that your child knows that you can’t wait to hear all about their new adventures and what they’re learning about.

Following these simple getting ready to get back to school checklist items, your kid is going to be set up for a successful school year.