Beyond the backpack: The hidden essentials for school success
Getting ready for a new school year isn’t just about notebooks and new shoes. These simple steps can help you feel ready for bumps, busy days, and more.
Back-to-school season often brings a long list of to-dos—shopping for supplies, setting new schedules, and getting used to new routines. It’s a busy time for the whole family.
But there’s another part of back-to-school prep that’s easy to miss: Health planning. From small scrapes to runny noses, kids face a lot during the school year.
The good news? A few simple steps can help you get ready. With a little planning now, you can handle everyday needs and surprise moments with ease.
Refresh your home medicine cabinet
When was the last time you checked your medicine cabinet? If you’re not sure, now is a good time to take a look.
Start by checking expiration dates. Medications and supplies don’t last forever, and using expired products may not be safe or work as well. Follow FDA guidelines for safe disposal of medications.
Then think about what your family may need during the school year. Kids often get small illnesses and minor injuries, especially when they spend time with other children.
Items to keep on hand include (follow your physician's advice concerning which is best for your child):
- Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
- Allergy medications for sneezing and itchy eyes
- Remedies for upset stomachs
- Cold and flu treatments that are safe for your child’s age (check the label or ask a doctor before use)
Having these basics ready can save you a trip to the store when your child isn’t feeling well. It also helps you act quickly when something comes up.
Stock up on everyday health essentials
Getting ready for school also means having items that help your child feel comfortable and confident each day.
For example, sunscreen is important all year. Kids who play outside still need protection. A small sunscreen stick can fit easily in a backpack. Choose one that is broad-spectrum with SPF 30 or higher and reapply when needed.
Bandages are another must-have. Scrapes and small cuts happen often, especially with active kids. Keeping them at home and in backpacks can help.
You may also want to think about items that support your child’s personal care. For some kids, that could include:
- Acne treatments
- Eye care items like glasses, contacts, or drops
- Menstrual products
These simple items can help kids feel prepared and at ease during the school day.
And don’t forget about mental health. A new school year can bring stress or worry for some kids. Knowing your child has support—like open talks at home or help from a counselor—can make the change easier.
Are You At Risk for Diabetes?
Create a grab-and-go care kit
Busy families are often on the move. Between school, sports, and other activities, it helps to have small items ready to go.
A grab-and-go care kit is an easy solution. This can be a small pouch your child keeps in a backpack, locker, or sports bag. You can keep one in the car, too.
Your kit might include:
- Bandages
- Hand sanitizer
- Tissues
- Mini deodorant
- Floss or a disposable toothbrush
- A stain remover pen
- A small hairbrush or comb
- Sunscreen
- Any personal items your child may need
These items can help kids handle small problems on their own—like spills, messy hair, or freshening up after gym class.
You can adjust the kit to match your child’s needs. For example, kids with severe allergies may need quick access to prescribed medication, such as an epinephrine auto-injector (commonly called EpiPen).
Keep things simple and easy to carry. That way, your child feels ready for anything the school day brings.
Prepare for school health needs
Schools often need health forms before the year starts. Reviewing these now can help avoid delays.
Start by updating your child’s emergency contact information. Make sure the school has your current phone numbers and backup contacts. Include a note in your child’s backpack with the parent’s name and phone number.
If your child needs medicine during the school day, check the school’s rules. Many schools need forms signed by a doctor and a parent before staff can give medication. Filling these out early can prevent stress later.
It can also help to talk with the school nurse if your child has ongoing health needs.
Schedule important wellness visits
Schedule your child's wellness exam prior to the new school year. These visits help support your child’s health.
Wellness exams help track growth and development. They are also a good time to ask questions and talk about any concerns.
Other visits to plan include eye exams and dental cleanings.
Booking these ahead of time can help you stay on track and avoid busy schedules later. It also helps your child feel ready to learn and take part in school activities. Log in to your AvMed member portal to find in-network physicians near you.
Small steps, big benefits
Back-to-school prep is about more than supplies and schedules. Taking time to plan for health can make a big difference.
These small steps can help your child start the year feeling ready, comfortable, and confident. And for parents, that peace of mind matters too.
See our sources:
Expired medications: U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Sunscreen: Skin Cancer Foundation
Back-to-school anxiety: The Kid’s Mental Health Foundation
Well-child visits: Healthychildren.org
