Back to School Health Tips for Parents: A Wellness Checklist for a Strong Start

As backpacks fill up with new supplies and calendars fill with school schedules, one of the most important ways to prepare for the year ahead is to focus on your child’s health. Starting school healthy means fewer missed days, less stress, and more time to learn and thrive.

Early preparation can help families avoid last-minute scrambles, reduce the spread of illness, and support both physical and emotional well-being. At Nest Health, we bring care directly into families’ homes, making it easier to get children ready for a strong, healthy start.

The Top Back to School Health Concerns for Parents

Back-to-school season comes with unique challenges for children and parents alike. Common concerns include:

• Increased exposure to colds, flu, and strep throat in classrooms

• Sleep and routine disruptions after a more relaxed summer schedule

• Nutrition challenges from busy mornings and packed lunches

• Anxiety and stress about new teachers, friends, or transitions

• Higher risk of sports-related injuries during PE or after-school activities

By addressing these early, parents can help their children stay healthy, confident, and focused throughout the school year.

Tip #1: Schedule Your Child’s Back to School Checkup Early

Annual checkups are one of the best ways to ensure your child is healthy and ready for school. These visits often include:

• Growth and development tracking

• Vision and hearing screenings

• Immunizations

• Sports physicals and clearances

• Mental health screenings

Booking early avoids the late-summer rush and ensures your child has everything they need for enrollment. With Nest Health, families can complete these checkups in the comfort of home, saving time and easing stress for both kids and parents.

👉 Learn more on our For Families page.

Tip #2: Catch Up on Required and Recommended Vaccines

Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to prevent illness at school. Common required vaccines include MMR, Tdap, Varicella, and Polio, with additional recommended ones like the annual flu shot and HPV vaccine.

Staying current helps protect your child and the entire school community. Beyond vaccines, this is a good time to check in on dental health, vision, and chronic condition management. Nest Health makes it easier by providing immunizations, wellness checks, and preventative care in a single in-home visit.

👉 Read more on our vaccination information page and explore our companion blog: Back to School Vaccines: A Guide for Parents.

Tip #3: Rebuild Healthy Habits: Sleep, Nutrition, and Routines

After a summer of late nights and flexible routines, kids need time to adjust before the first school bell rings. Helpful strategies include:

• Start shifting bedtimes and wake-up times two weeks before school begins

• Prepare balanced, lunchbox-friendly meals with fruits, vegetables, and protein

• Limit screen time before bed to improve sleep quality

Healthy habits built at home translate into better focus, stronger immune systems, and more energy for learning.

Tip #4: Address Back to School Stress Early

Returning to school can be exciting, but it can also bring anxiety. Some children may feel nervous about new teachers, friends, or expectations. Parents can help by:

• Talking openly about feelings and what to expect

• Walking through the new routine before school begins

• Introducing calming practices like deep breathing or mindfulness

If stress persists, showing up as mood changes, sleep disruptions, or withdrawal, it may be time to connect with a trusted provider. Nest Health offers both physical and mental health support in one visit.

Tip #5: Teach Kids How to Prevent the Spread of Germs

Classrooms are busy environments where germs spread quickly. Teaching children good hygiene habits helps protect them and others:

• Wash hands often with soap and water

• Cover coughs and sneezes with tissues or elbows

• Avoid sharing food, drinks, or personal items

If your child is sick, keep them home to prevent spreading illness. Nest Health makes it easier by offering in-home sick visits, so families can avoid long waits at clinics.

Tip #6: Coordinate Care for Chronic Conditions and Special Needs

For children with asthma, diabetes, allergies, ADHD, or other chronic conditions, back-to-school season is a good time to update care plans. Parents should:

• Request updated action plans from providers

• Share documentation with teachers, school staff, and the school nurse

• Review medication routines and ensure refills are up to date

Coordinating care early helps children stay safe and confident in the classroom.

Tip #7: Don’t Forget Your Own Health as a Parent

Children thrive when parents are healthy, too. Caregivers should schedule their own checkups, including flu shots, COVID boosters, and annual physicals.

Making time for self-care and stress management not only supports your well-being but also sets a positive example for children. When parents stay healthy, the whole family benefits.

Start the School Year Strong with Nest Health

Healthy kids are better learners. From annual checkups and immunizations to sick visits and mental health support, Nest Health helps families prepare for a successful school year, all from the comfort of home.

Our in-home model reduces stress for children, saves time for parents, and is covered through Medicaid and select health plans.