As summer winds down, it’s time to gear up for a new school year. While shopping for supplies and organizing schedules, don’t forget to make health a top priority. These simple tips can help children of all ages start the school year strong — physically, mentally and emotionally.

Practice good hand hygiene

• Teach children to wash their hands with soap and water, and scrub for at least 20 seconds (the length of time it takes to hum “Happy Birthday” twice).
• Use hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available.
• Avoid sharing water bottles, utensils and other personal items.
• Remind children to wash their hands before eating, and after using the bathroom, playing outside, coughing, sneezing or blowing their nose.

Focus on family nutrition

• Start each day with a breakfast high in protein and fiber, and low in sugar.
• Create balanced meals rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins to boost the immune system.
• Limit added sugars, processed carbohydrates, saturated fats and salt.
• Encourage drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated and help fight off illness.

Develop a sleep routine

• Set a consistent sleep schedule to improve focus, mood and overall well-being.
• Keep screens out of reach at bedtime.
• Try calming techniques like deep breathing to relax.
• The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that children ages 6 through 12 sleep 9 to 12 hours per night and teens should get 8 to 10 hours of sleep.

Support mental and emotional wellness

• Reduce anxiety by creating a daily routine that balances time for homework, physical activity and free time.
• Encourage participation in school activities and social events to help build friendships and confidence.
• Lower children’s stress by letting them know they can talk openly about any worries or challenges.
• Enroll in Scout: Sutter Health Plan members ages 13 to 22 have access to Scout, an award-winning program that features tools and techniques for emotional and mental wellness online or through a mobile app — at no extra cost. Call Customer Service at 855-315-5800 (TTY 855-830-3500) for the access code, then get started at scout.sutterhealth.org.

Schedule a pediatric checkup

• Book a well-child exam through My Health Online to check children’s overall health, catch any emerging issues and ask questions.
• Ask about vaccinations and make sure children receive them at the right time to ensure they stay healthy and are school ready.
• Review recommended screenings and vaccinations in our Health Maintenance Guidelines.

Following these tips sets children up for a great school year that supports their physical health, emotional well-being and academic success.