With the new academic year upon us, ensuring a healthy and safe environment for students is crucial. This article presents practical tips and medical advice to help parents and educators foster both physical and mental well-being for children, paving the way for a successful year ahead. Following this guide for a healthy and safe academic year is essential for promoting positive academic performance and overall health.
Psychological Preparedness
Dr. Shatha Mohammed Al-Tai, a consultant pediatrician at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, emphasizes the importance of psychological preparedness as students return to school. Parents should engage in conversations with their children to help them adjust to the new academic environment, which includes interacting with teachers and peers. Additionally, maintaining a regular sleep schedule is vital to prevent physical exhaustion. Encouraging children to stay hydrated and consume healthy foods can significantly aid concentration and mitigate fatigue. Parents are urged to establish appropriate electronic device usage rules to make the transition back to school smoother and less stressful.
Moreover, Sheikh Khalifa Medical City offers comprehensive health screenings for students, ensuring their general health, growth, and capabilities are monitored. Specialized clinics are available for eye and hearing examinations, especially for children with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The medical staff is well-equipped to support these needs, collaborating with schools to provide necessary medical and health assistance.
Eye Health
Dr. Ashwaq bin Amro, a consultant in ophthalmology at Burjeel Medical City in Abu Dhabi, highlights the critical nature of eye health as the school year begins. “As children return to school, the dependence on electronic devices like iPads and tablets increases, making eye care essential,” she notes. Prolonged use of these devices can lead to eye strain, dryness, and vision disturbances, especially in children who do not take regular breaks.
It is crucial for parents to ensure their children undergo regular eye health monitoring, particularly given the current reliance on digital learning. Routine eye exams should be conducted before the school year starts, covering visual acuity, eye movement, focusing ability, and the health of the retina and cornea. Parents should encourage children to adhere to guidelines such as taking breaks every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds, adjusting room lighting for comfort, and maintaining a distance of 30-40 centimeters between their eyes and screens. Engaging in outdoor activities also helps strengthen vision. Education on responsible device use, including adjusting screen brightness and utilizing blue light filters, is necessary, as is wearing protective glasses when needed.
Gradual Preparation
Dr. Aisha Al-Kaabi, a general pediatric consultant at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, underscores the significance of gradual preparation for returning to school. Positive dialogue about school as a place for learning and enjoyment can alleviate children’s anxieties. Listening to their concerns and reassuring them fosters a sense of security regarding their return to school. Involving children in getting ready for school, such as purchasing supplies and creating a simple daily schedule, can also boost their confidence.
The process of re-establishing a sleep routine should begin at least a week before school starts. Incorporating simple educational activities, such as reading stories, can effectively regulate daily schedules and sleep patterns. Dr. Al-Kaabi stresses the necessity of a holistic approach to child preparation since mind and body function as an integrated unit. Ensuring adequate nutrition through healthy foods and regular physical activity is critical. Breakfast plays a vital role in providing energy, and a sufficient intake of water supports concentration and memory. Foods rich in omega-3 and limiting sugar intake are encouraged.
The importance of regular sleep cannot be overstated, as it significantly enhances a child’s ability to focus. An early bedtime facilitates the secretion of growth hormones essential for children, while an organized study schedule is key to academic success. Breaking study time into short intervals of 25-30 minutes with brief breaks aids in retention. Furthermore, it is essential to choose a designated study area that is well-lit and free from distractions, creating a calm and supportive environment conducive to mental wellness and academic achievement.