A Healthy Start to a New School Year

A healthy start to a new school year!                                                     [Bulletin date: July 26, 2026]

Here are some healthy tips for getting everyone into a new school year routine:

1. Pack lunches - preparing healthy lunches the night before may save money, time, and reduce calories.
2. Reduce screen time – have “no phone” and “no TV” meals to encourage family conversations; turn off devices an hour before bedtime to allow the brain to relax.
3. Bedtime routines – consider and stick to earlier bedtimes since children aged 6-12 need 9-12 hours of sleep and teens need 8-10 hours; consider room darkening shades if needed to block out light.
4. Eye exams may catch issues early – annual eye exams are important because poor eyesight may interfere with learning; watch for recurring headaches when reading, sitting too close to the TV or a device, squinting, losing place when reading, or falling behind in reading skills.
5. Sports physical exams for all athletes are more detailed than a regular wellness check-up and may catch issues before injury or illness occurs. 
6. Backpack checks – overloaded and improperly worn backpacks can cause shoulder, neck and back issues.  Always use both shoulder straps and readjust them to match the thickness of clothing; backpacks should sit high on the back and never extend beyond the waist.
7. Mental health is important – don’t just ask how school is but ask questions that can develop into conversations about classes, teachers and friends; don’t take “fine” as the final answer!

Pray for all students and teachers for patience, guidance, and the love of learning.

 

Pastoral Care Director, 
St. Ann Parish Nurse

Linda M. Walsh, RN, BSN
lwalshrn@st-ann.org 

770-552-6400 x6019