A new school year can be the right time to hit reset on our schedules, routines, and health habits. While the focus may be on kids getting ready for the classroom, you can also make sure the whole family is feeling supported and set up for a healthy year ahead.
Here’s some ways to set up everyone for success: physically, emotionally, and mentally.
1. Stay up-to-date on preventive care
Preventive care lays the groundwork for lifelong health. These routine visits are opportunities to catch potential issues early, get expert input, and keep your family’s health on track.
Now’s a good time to:
- Schedule annual physicals, dental checkups, vision exams, and immunizations
- Make sure school or sports clearance forms are current
- Review medications and any ongoing care plans
Vaccines like MMR and HPV (when recommended) can play an important role in protecting your family and community. Talk with your provider about which ones are appropriate based on your family members’ health and history.
Not sure where to start? A well-child visit is a good time to discuss any health questions or concerns with your child’s health care team, which is another reason to get those appointments on your calendar.
2. Take a break for emotional wellness
New schedules and environments can be exciting and stressful. Kids and caregivers alike may experience a range of emotions as they transition into the season.
Some ways to support emotional well-being:
- Ask how your family members are feeling about the changes ahead
- Let them know that nerves or worries are normal
- Remind yourself it’s okay to feel off balance
These check-ins don’t need to be complicated, just consistent. A few open-ended questions can go a long way in helping everyone feel seen and supported.
3. Make it easier to get back into a routine
Shifting from summer to structure can take time for kids and adults alike. Easing into routines gradually helps everyone feel more in control and less overwhelmed.
A few simple strategies:
- Shift sleep and meal schedules in small steps
- Talk about what to expect during the day, especially mornings and evenings
- Build in calming transitions like quiet time or family wind-down rituals
The start of a new season is a great reminder: health isn’t just about avoiding illness, it’s about creating routines that help your whole family thrive, all year long.
Explore more ways to help kids ease into the school year in our guide to building healthy routines.
Need extra support? Quartz mental well-being programs with AbleTo offer virtual mental health care for adults and teens ages 13+, including self-guided support. One-on-one virtual therapy and coaching are available for adults 18+.
For more guidance, our Behavioral Health Care Management team is here to answer questions you might have around behavioral health and connect your family to the care they may need.
