The start of a new school year is an exciting time filled with fresh supplies, new teachers, and growth opportunities. However, along with academics, children also face various health challenges in school environments, from minor injuries on the playground to seasonal illnesses that spread quickly in classrooms. By taking proactive steps, parents can help their children stay healthy, focused, and ready to learn all year long.
For same-day back-to-school health services, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care West Orange. Our team provides everything from flu shots to sports physicals. Walk in or plan your visit in advance by saving your spot below!
Practice Injury Prevention
School days often involve active play, sports, and physical education, which are great for building strength and coordination. However, they also increase the risk of injuries like sprains, fractures, or concussions. To minimize these risks:
- Choose a properly fitted backpack and ensure it isn’t overloaded.
- Make sure your child wears appropriate shoes for school and sports.
- Teach safe playground habits, like using equipment correctly and being aware of others.
- Ensure sports gear, including helmets and pads, fits well and is in good condition.
Limit Screen Time
With tablets, smartphones, and computers becoming a bigger part of learning and leisure, children spend more hours in front of screens than ever. Too much screen time can contribute to eye strain, poor posture, disrupted sleep, and reduced physical activity. Set consistent limits and take breaks from screens every 20–30 minutes, while engaging in non-screen activities like reading, playing outside, or doing creative projects.
Get Vaccinated
Vaccinations are among the most effective ways to protect your child from serious illnesses. Schools often require up-to-date immunizations for enrollment, which may include vaccines for measles, mumps, rubella, whooping cough, tetanus, and seasonal flu. Talk to your child’s healthcare provider about recommended vaccines for their age group and any additional shots necessary for certain activities, travel, or sports programs.
Stay Active
Regular exercise helps children maintain a healthy weight, strengthens muscles and bones, improves mood, and boosts focus in the classroom. Encourage at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily, including walking or biking to school, joining sports teams, dancing, swimming, or simply playing outside with friends. Limiting sedentary activities and prioritizing movement will help your child develop lifelong healthy habits.
Get Back-To-School Healthcare at AFC Urgent Care West Orange
Even with the best prevention strategies, bumps, scrapes, fevers, and sniffles are part of the school year. Urgent care can be your go-to solution when your child comes home with a twisted ankle from recess, a sudden rash, or flu-like symptoms that appear out of nowhere. With quick evaluations, on-the-spot treatments, and extended hours, the team at AFC Urgent Care West Orange helps you handle school-year surprises so your child can focus on their studies! Our center is open 7 days a week to fit even the busiest schedules. Most major insurances are accepted and we offer affordable rates for our self-pay patients. For more information about our services, contact our medical team directly at (973) 669-5900.
