Back to School Health: Essential Tips for Families

Getting children ready for a new school year is about more than uniforms, shoes, and stationery. September often brings a mix of excitement, new routines, and a few health challenges. Taking simple steps now can help keep your child healthy, confident, and ready to learn.

This guide covers practical back to school health tips for families and grandparents, from everyday checks to important vaccinations.

Everyday Health Checks Before School Starts

A few quick checks at home can prevent problems later:

• Head lice (nits): Check your child’s scalp with a fine-toothed comb before term begins. Head lice spread easily in schools. Over-the-counter shampoos are available if needed (NHS guidance).
• Warts and verrucae: These are common in school-aged children, especially with shared sports facilities. Most cases can be managed with over-the-counter topical treatments. Stubborn verrucaes can respond well to GP administered cryotherapy, suitable for the over 7's.
• General hygiene: Encourage regular handwashing and good sleep routines, both proven to reduce illness and improve concentration.

Vaccinations: Staying Protected

Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to protect children against serious illness. Before term starts, check whether your child’s vaccines are up to date.

• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella): With measles cases rising in the UK, it is essential that children receive two doses, usually at 12 months and 3 years 4 months.
• Chickenpox: While not part of the NHS schedule, a vaccine is available privately. In the US, it has been routine for over 20 years. At Private GP Services, children can receive the vaccine from 9 months of age.
• Hepatitis B: Recommended for children involved in contact sports, as the virus spreads through blood contact.
• Tuberculosis (BCG): Once routinely given in schools, the BCG vaccine is no longer part of the UK schedule. Children under 6 can receive it directly, while older children need a skin test first. One dose provides lifelong protection.

You can book online for vaccinations and health checks at Private GP Services or by calling us – 03300533745.

Supporting Children’s Health Through the Year

Beyond vaccinations, these back-to-school health tips can help children thrive:

• Pack a balanced lunch with fruit, vegetables, and wholegrains.
• Keep water bottles topped up to prevent dehydration.
• Ensure your child has supportive footwear to reduce the risk of foot pain or posture issues.
• Encourage daily outdoor play for both physical and mental health.

For tailored support, our children’s health services cover everything from minor illnesses to long-term wellbeing.

FAQs on Back to School Health

Is it Normal for Children to Get Sick After Going Back to School? Yes. New environments, close contact, and different routines mean children often catch colds or minor viruses when term begins. Most are mild and short-lived.

Can My Child Go to School with a Runny Nose? If your child is otherwise well, eating, drinking, and playing, a runny nose alone is not usually a reason to keep them home. Check NHS advice on when to keep children off school.

Can Kids Go to School with a Viral Infection? It depends on the infection. For example, children should stay home with a high fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, or chickenpox until symptoms settle.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for school is about more than ticking off the uniform list. By focusing on back to school health, families and grandparents can give children the best start to the year, healthy, confident, and protected.

For further support, book an appointment with Private GP Services for vaccinations, check-ups, or tailored health advice.