The holidays are flying by and that new term will come around in no time. But have you done your kids’ health homework? Fiona Adams has the answers...
Eyes
Around 20% of children go to school with undiagnosed vision problems. Our eyesight continues to develop until around the age of eight and although poor eyesight can seriously affect learning capabilities, many children may not even realise they have an issue or that they could see better. NHS eye tests are free for under-16s and vouchers are also issued towards the cost of glasses, so no excuses – get your child to the optician!
Teeth
Getting kids to clean their gnashers can be a struggle; I was shouting ‘Teeth!’ at my son every morning before school until he was over 18, so I appreciate the struggle. The most common reason for childhood hospital admissions in the UK is tooth decay and every day a staggering 170 children and teenagers have operations to remove teeth. Aside from reducing sugar in your family diet and regular brushing, introduce visits to the dentist as early as possible and make it a fun experience. If possible, get a check-up during the holidays – it will often be easier to get an appointment and your child needn’t miss lessons, plus NHS treatment is free for kids.
Teenagers
If your child is starting a new secondary school, there are a host of things you need to consider – many of which you may not want to face as your little darling is only 11. However, he or she will soon be mixing with older children and may be exposed to all kinds of influences. Be alert to bullying issues, be open to discussing topics such as drugs, alcohol and sex. If you are joining a school in another part of the UK or if you are from another country, check up on vaccination advice (see nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations). See talktoFrank.com for useful advice about drugs and how to talk to your child about them.
Nits
Ah, nits… the bane of my life as, year after year, well into secondary school, I was checking my daughter’s hair, as nits went round… again. Younger children are more at risk as they play closer together and there’s more scope for the nits to move from head to head. Keep hair tied back and check it at least once a week with a lot of conditioner and a fine-toothed comb. If your child starts scratching, treatment will usually be required (a medicated one containing permethrin should do the trick). Tell the school so other parents can also check their offspring (you can ask to remain anonymous!). Try a nit repellent if infestations are ongoing.
Allergies
It might sound obvious, but if your child has any debilitating or dangerous allergies or reactions to food or conditions, do make sure you inform the school in advance; double-check with form and subject tutors if necessary. Make sure your child knows what to say and do, especially if starting at a different school. Check with the school whether it has a supply of adrenaline auto-injectors (EpiPens) and staff trained to use them in an emergency.
Anxiety
Is your child looking forward to school or are they anxious about returning? Do they seem withdrawn or are they showing signs of random illnesses like sore throats and tummy aches? Talk to them about their worries in a relaxed situation. It might simply be a case of nerves after a long absence or something more significant such as bullying. In either case, act early and talk to teachers if necessary. Click here to read our expert tips on helping your child cope with anxiety.
