Back-to-school readiness means more than just new school supplies, backpacks and books. As New Mexico parents prepare themselves and their families for students’ August return to the classroom, there are a few critical steps to consider taking now to help promote a happy and healthy school year for everyone from kindergarteners to collegians.

One of the best ways to prepare is to ensure that the students in your home receive a routine well-child visit, which includes receiving age-recommended vaccinations that protect against disease. State laws determine vaccination requirements for children. In Albuquerque, the pivotal years for vaccinations are kindergarten and seventh and 11^th grades, said Dr. Chelsea Sanchez, a pediatrician with Optum New Mexico. Depending on age, New Mexico law requires inoculations that protect against the following diseases: polio; meningitis; chickenpox; diphtheria; measles, mumps, and rubella; pertussis; and tetanus. Getting the appropriate vaccinations before the beginning of the school year is key, so it’s important to consult your family doctor or pediatrician for more guidance on what vaccinations are right for your child and at what age.

Also during a well-child visit, middle-school through college-age students can benefit from a sports physical that can prepare them for organized sports, as well as ensure their medical records and health history are up to date. During a sports physical, a doctor can review and evaluate family health history, any past head injuries, cardiac health, asthma or bronchial history, and mental health. There are also unique concerns that pertain to female athletes or disabled athletes that a physician can look for to help keep your child safer.

“The exam is similar to an annual checkup, but we make sure their joints and muscles are nice and coordinated and strong to ensure they can participate on the field or court and that there’s no risk factors,” Sanchez said.

Going back to school can also be a stressful time. Mental health problems can occur at any age, even as early as kindergarten, Dr. Sanchez said. In fact, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) states that one in six children from 6 to 17 years old experience a mental health condition each year, and 50% of mental illnesses begin by the time someone is 14.

Prior school experiences, self- or family-inflicted pressure to perform well, a new environment, bullying, social media, and genetics can all contribute to mental health challenges. Parents and families are encouraged to communicate openly and honestly with their children, as well as with their children’s teachers.

“There are a good number of kids that don’t love school,” Sanchez said. “So, making sure they know who they can talk to when things get really stressful is important.”

There are also actions families can take even before school starts to reduce or prevent problems from occurring once school bells ring. Dr. Sanchez said she often advises parents to do the following:

• Prepare early: Don’t wait until the last minute to buy school supplies, clothes and other items you know will be needed. Talk about what the child will have for breakfast and what will be purchased or packed for lunch. These types of advance preparations can reduce stress for the entire family by setting expectations and ensuring no one is rushed in the days right before school begins.
• Say goodbye to summer sleep schedules so that children are accustomed to going to bed and waking up earlier by the time classes begin. Keep in mind that young children require upward of 10 hours, and teens need between eight and 10 hours per night.  “The importance of sleep is huge, and it’s good for mental health,” Sanchez said. “If a child is having sleep issues or needs help with setting a routine, pediatricians can talk through that with parents because a poorly rested child will have a lot more issues with behavior, focus, patience and just getting through the day than the rested child will. Plus, studies have shown that who are well rested and well fed can lead to academic success.”
• Have candid conversations. Families can help put their children at ease by speaking with them about their concerns and discussing school in a positive light. Adults might want to talk about how exciting it will be to meet new friends and teachers and learn new things. “Making younger kids feel like, ‘I can do this,’ is important,” Sanchez said. “For older kids, it’s about reiterating the importance of the right friendships, safe friendships and making sure they are of the right quality, as well as making sure they know who they can talk to if they’re nervous at school.” This could be a teacher or a school counselor.

• Encourage relationships. Building strong bonds and relationships with adults and friends at school, at home, and in the community provides young people with a sense of connectedness. Strong social bonds also can reduce the likelihood of a variety of health risks, including those related to mental health, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

Finally, it’s important to get an appointment with a physician for your child sooner rather than later, as many pediatricians and family doctors will start to get full.

If you, your child or someone else you know has thoughts about suicide, seek help right away. If you, your child or someone else you know is in immediate danger, call 911 — or go to the closest emergency room. To reach a trained crisis counselor, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273- 8255). You may also chat at 988.lifeline.org.