If your house is anything like mine, the weeks leading up to the first day of school are a whirlwind. We’re shopping for school supplies, trying on clothes that somehow don’t fit anymore, filling out endless forms, and wondering where summer went.
In the middle of all the excitement, it’s easy to forget one of the most important parts of getting ready for a new school year—making sure our kids are healthy and prepared for the months ahead.
The good news is that you don’t have to do everything perfectly. A few simple steps before the first day can help make the transition smoother for both you and your child.
Here are 7 things every parent should do before the first day of school to help set their child up for a healthy, successful school year.
1. Start Resetting Sleep Schedules Now
If your kids have been staying up later than usual this summer, you’re definitely not alone. Instead of waiting until the night before school starts, begin moving bedtime up by 15–20 minutes every few nights. It gives their bodies time to adjust and makes those early school mornings much easier.
Most children need:
- Preschoolers: 10–13 hours of sleep
- School-age children: 9–12 hours
- Teens: 8–10 hours
A well-rested child is more likely to be focused in class, handle emotions better, and start the school year feeling their best.
2. Make Sure Vaccines Are Up to Date
Back-to-school season is one of the busiest times in a pediatric office because many schools require updated immunizations before students can attend.
If you’re not sure whether your child is due for any vaccines, now is the perfect time to check. Scheduling early can save you from the last-minute rush and help ensure your child is ready for the first day.
3. Don’t Wait to Schedule Sports Physicals
If your child plans to play football, volleyball, cheer, cross country, soccer, or any other school sport, chances are they’ll need a sports physical before practices begin.
Every year, families call at the last minute trying to squeeze in appointments before tryouts. Planning ahead helps avoid unnecessary stress and gives your child plenty of time to be cleared for participation.
4. Check Medications and Medical Forms
If your child has asthma, severe allergies, ADHD, diabetes, or another chronic medical condition, now is a great time to make sure everything is ready for school.
Before the first day, double-check that:
- Prescription medications haven’t expired.
- Inhalers or EpiPens are easy to find.
- The school has updated medication forms.
- Teachers and the school nurse are aware of any important medical needs.
Taking care of these details now can give everyone a little more peace of mind once school starts.
5. Pay Attention to Vision and Hearing Changes
Sometimes a child who seems distracted or is struggling in school isn’t having a behavior problem at all—they simply can’t see the board or hear instructions clearly.
If you’ve noticed your child squinting, sitting unusually close to the television, complaining of headaches, or asking people to repeat themselves, mention it during their next visit. Small issues caught early can make a big difference in the classroom.
6. Expect Some First-Day Jitters
Even children who love school can feel nervous before a new school year begins.
A new teacher, different classmates, unfamiliar routines, or moving to a new grade can all bring up big emotions. That’s completely normal.
Talk with your child about what they’re excited about and what they’re nervous about. Sometimes simply listening and reassuring them that those feelings are okay can make all the difference.
If your child is experiencing severe anxiety, frequent stomachaches, headaches, panic, or refuses to go to school, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician.
For more information, check out our blog on Back-to-School Anxiety in Kids: What’s Normal and What’s Not.
7. Remember That Healthy Habits Matter More Than Perfect School Supplies
As parents, we spend a lot of time making sure our kids have the perfect backpack, lunchbox, and folders. Those things are important—but the habits they take into the school year matter even more.
Before school starts, try to focus on a few simple routines:
- Eat a healthy breakfast every morning.
- Pack a water bottle.
- Encourage daily physical activity.
- Limit screen time before bed.
- Create a consistent morning and bedtime routine.
These small habits help children stay healthy, focused, and ready to learn throughout the school year.
One Last Thought
As a mom, I know how quickly this season goes from lazy summer mornings to packed lunches, homework, and after-school activities. It is a busy time for every family, and it’s easy to feel like you have to do it all.
The truth is, preparing your child for school isn’t about perfection. It’s about making sure they’re healthy, confident, and ready to learn.
If your child needs vaccines, a yearly wellness visit, a sports physical, or if you simply have questions before school starts, we’re here to help.
From all of us at Mid City Pediatrics, we hope your family has a healthy, happy, and successful school year!
Ready for the School Year?
If your child is due for a wellness visit, immunizations, or a sports physical, now is the perfect time to schedule an appointment before the back-to-school rush. We look forward to helping your child start the school year healthy and ready to thrive. Call to schedule your child’s appointment today.
Dr. Cockrell grew up in nearby Natchitoches, LA. She graduated magna cum laude from Northwestern State University with a BS in Biology before pursuing her medical education at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in Shreveport. In 2004, she proudly earned her medical degree and was honored with membership in the esteemed Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society. After completing her medical residency training at LSUHSC while raising her young family, Dr. Cockrell made Shreveport her home. Since 2007, she has been a valued member of Mid City Pediatrics, certified by the American Board of Pediatrics, and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics.
