Back-to-School with Aster: Simple health tips for children’s well-being

The new school year brings fresh beginnings - new classrooms, new friends, new lessons and plenty of excitement. For parents, it also means getting children back into routines that may have taken a back seat during the holidays. While school bags, uniforms and books are on every parent’s checklist, there is one more thing worth preparing for: their overall health and well-being.

From sleep and nutrition to vision, oral health, growth and the changes that come with adolescence, a few simple health checks and healthy habits can help children start the school year feeling their best. Because being ready for school is about more than having the right stationery. It is about being ready to learn, play, grow and thrive.

A healthy start can set the tone for the year

The transition from holidays to school can take some adjustment. Early mornings, busy schedules, packed lunches and a more structured routine all return at once. This is a good time for parents to reset some of the everyday habits that may have become relaxed during the holidays - regular bedtimes, balanced meals, outdoor play, hydration and good hygiene.

Food for growth and everyday energy

Growing children have different nutritional needs at different stages of life. While some children may be picky eaters or struggle to gain weight, others may experience changes in weight due to lifestyle and eating habits. Instead of comparing children with others, it is important to focus on their individual growth, development and overall well-being.

Can they see the board clearly?

Vision plays an important role in how children learn and participate in the classroom. However, children may not always realise that their vision has changed. Sitting too close to screens, squinting, holding books very close or struggling to see distant objects may be signs worth paying attention to.

Don't forget their smile

Busy mornings and changing routines can make oral health habits easy to overlook. School days also mean packed lunches, frequent snacks and treats - which makes good dental hygiene especially important.

Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and choosing healthy snacks and drinks are simple habits that go a long way in maintaining good oral health.

Growing up comes with questions

The teenage years bring significant physical, hormonal and emotional changes. Changes in growth, weight, height, skin, sleep, appetite and energy levels are all part of a period where children are growing rapidly.

For parents, it is important to keep their communication with the teenagers open and supportive. It is crucial to create an environment where teenagers feel comfortable discussing what they are experiencing.

Teenagers need to know that they can talk about their changing bodies, emotions, friendships, school pressures, and worries without fear of judgment. A new school year can be a good opportunity to check in – not only about academics and friendships, but also about how your child is feeling.

Sometimes, asking “How are you?” can be just as important as asking “How was your school today?” Parents should also remember that every teenager develops at their own pace. Instead of comparing a child with their peers, parents are suggested to focus on their child’s individual growth and overall well-being.

Small habits, big difference

A healthier school routine does not have to be complicated. Start with the basics:

• Getting enough sleep

• Eating balanced meals

• Drinking enough water

• Staying physically active

• Maintaining good hygiene

• Taking regular breaks from screens

• Brushing and caring for their teeth

• Paying attention to changes in growth, vision or overall wellbeing

These everyday habits can make a meaningful difference to how children feel through the school year.