Back to School

As summer ends and the new school year approaches, getting your child ready for the classroom goes beyond shopping for supplies and clothes. It is also a time to focus on their health and well-being to ensure they are set up for a successful start. Fort HealthCare is dedicated to helping families with a smooth transition back to school to pave the way for a positive and productive year ahead.

Fort HealthCare’s School Nurse Program: A Trusted Source

Fort HealthCare’s School Nurse Program has been a cornerstone of community health, providing health services to students across multiple schools in our region. Established to improve the health and safety of children, this program places registered nurses who offer direct care, while also working collaboratively with school staff, students, and families, to promote a healthy learning environment. By integrating these services into the school setting, Fort HealthCare ensures that students have access to the care they need for a successful and healthy school year.

Well-Child Visits and Sports Physicals

An essential part of preparing for the school year is scheduling well-child visits and sports physicals. These appointments help meet school health requirements and make sure your child is healthy and ready for the school year. Updated immunizations are another essential component, and it is important to verify that all vaccinations are current before school begins. The Wisconsin Immunization Registry (WIR) is a useful tool for parents to print their child’s immunization records to provide them to their schools as needed.

Medication Management at School

If your child requires medication during school hours, it is important to have all necessary forms completed and signed by their parent/guardian and medical provider, as needed. Over-the-counter medication, such as Tylenol or Ibuprofen, require parent/guardian signatures if given according to manufacturer directions.  Prescription medications and any over-the-counter medications given at doses different than the package instructions require the signature of a licensed medical provider and the parent/guardian. Providing these forms in advance helps school nurses manage your child’s medication needs effectively and ensures they receive the correct doses at the appropriate times. Coordination between parents, school nurses, and healthcare providers is essential to maintaining your child’s health throughout the school day.

Managing Chronic Medical Needs

For students with chronic medical conditions, maintaining regular communication with your school nurse is important. Update and submit any necessary medical orders to the school each year, including documentation about your child’s condition and treatment needs. Additionally, keeping your child at home if they are not feeling well helps prevent the spread of illness and supports their recovery. Addressing these needs early will help your child stay healthy and ready for the school year.

Creating a Healthy School Routine

Establishing a healthy school routine from summer can ease your child’s transition back to school. Start by gradually adjusting your child’s sleep schedule to align with school hours, helping them adapt more smoothly to the changes. Consistent bedtimes, wake-up times, and meal routines will support better sleep hygiene for your child. By setting these routines before school starts, you support a positive start to the school year and help your child feel more balanced and prepared for the year ahead.

Preparing for a Healthy School Year

As the new school year approaches, paying attention to your child’s health and well-being can make a significant difference. Taking the time to plan and address health-related needs will support your child’s transition and help them feel prepared and confident as they return to the classroom. Thoughtful preparation and care will lead to a positive and productive school year for your child.