It is a sad thought, but the summer break is almost over. Although we still have a few more weeks of summer, our team at AFC Urgent Care Worcester wants you to start thinking about how you can get back into a school routine sooner rather than later.

What Can I Do to Help My Child Prepare for School?

The beginning of school can be nerve-wracking and a shock to the system after a summer break. But starting now and getting back into a routine can benefit your child greatly.

The first step? Start re-setting your child’s bedtime and wake time in advance of the first day. Gradually set them back—say in 15 minutes increments every few days—until he or she is at a normal school time routine.

The Back-to-School Routine

• Get a good night’s sleep.
• Eat a good breakfast.
• Prepare lunches the night before.
• Talk about the plan for the day.

What Should I Be Feeding My Child?

A hungry child is not an effective learner, so fueling your little one properly is a key step toward success. Start with a healthy breakfast—make sure it contains a healthy carb (like fruit or whole grains), a lean protein and a small amount of healthy fat.

Then make sure your child takes along a well-balanced lunch, or is prepared to purchase one at school.

Healthy Lunch Ideas

• Turkey and cheddar roll-up
• Hummus and pita bread
• Cheese quesadilla
• Deli meat and cheese kabobs
• Red pepper slices with hummus or ranch
• Hard-boiled eggs
• Baby carrots and ranch
• Pasta salad
• Yogurt
• Almond butter or peanut butter and jelly

Does your child need a physical before the first day of school? Stop by AFC Urgent Care Worcester today to obtain one. No appointment necessary!