Back To School - What You Need To Be Aware Of

Parents: It's that time of the year again. The hot Summer sun is quickly fading earlier with each passing day. What's this all mean? It's back to school time.

But, before you send your kids away and fully focus on regaining your sanity, here's a health checklist to ensure your kids are well prepared for the enduring school days ahead.

1. Back Pack Check - Not all packs are created equal. All kids must have a pack that distributes the weight evenly and has not only shoulder straps, but horizontal straps that tie across the chest and around the waste. Properly securing the heavy weight of a full book bag will ensure good posture and minimize strain on any one body part.

2. Proper Nutrition Will Fuel Their Day - Before headed out the door, make sure your kids get have something to eat. Fruits, Cereals, Juices, Milks and high-protein foods will help keep your child's energy and concentration levels up.

3. A Full Night's Sleep Will Keep Them Awake - No more sleep overs and all-nighters. When school is back in, it's all about a full 8-hours of sleep. Because of the physical, as well as the mental energy exuded, it's important your child gets the necessary sleep to be fresh and attentive the next day as well.

4. Limit TV Time Now That There's Homework - Summer is all about staying up late, playing video games and watching t.v. However, now that school is back in session more focus should be given on academic studies to increase retention. TV, music and certainly video games are only a distraction to getting back on track with studying for most subjects - unless they're taking T.V. or music appreciation. Then, that's your call.

5. Health Check-Ups Before School - A healthy child is a more energized child, is a more learned child. Make sure to have your child evaluated by a health care professional prior to the start of a school year to make sure the proper attention is being placed on that individual's current health. With obesity still taking over the nation, it's important each child know how to handle their own health and self-control when you're not around to help them.

These are just a few of the things you can do to help your child ease back into the school year safely and easily.