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Essential Back-to-School Health Tips from Kroger Health

As the summer months fade and the school year approaches, preparing children for their return to the classroom means more than just buying new shoes and backpacks. Kroger Health, the healthcare branch of The Kroger Co., is on a mission to ensure families prioritize health during this crucial time.

The Importance of Preventive Care

Colleen Lindholz, President of Kroger Health, emphasizes the significance of preventive care as students head back to school. “A back-to-school physical is essential to ensure students are ready for the classroom and an opportunity to catch up on routine vaccinations that guard against serious illnesses,” she states.

Kroger’s Family of Stores offer access to The Little Clinic, where certified nurse practitioners are available to conduct comprehensive back-to-school physical exams. These exams cover medical history, physical assessments, and crucial age-specific screenings, providing families peace of mind.

Staying Up-to-Date on Vaccinations

With infectious diseases still posing a risk, families must stay current on recommended vaccinations. Consulting with healthcare providers, pharmacists from Kroger, or nurse practitioners from The Little Clinic can help families discern what immunizations are necessary for their children.

Cultivating Healthy Habits

Beyond routine check-ups and vaccinations, establishing healthy habits early in the school year will serve students well. Here are a few tips Kroger Health recommends:

1. Healthy Eating: A well-balanced diet is fundamental. Kroger's The Fresh Lane blog features A+ back-to-school recipes that provide nutritious options to fuel learning and concentration.

2. Quality Sleep: Ensuring children get enough sleep is crucial for their cognitive function. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine advises that elementary-aged children require 9 to 12 hours of sleep each night.

3. Regular Physical Activity: Daily movement is vital in promoting good health. Encouraging outdoor play can boost children’s morale, support digestive health, and stimulate creativity.

4. Hand Hygiene: Practicing frequent handwashing is one of the best defenses against spreading common illnesses. A simple rule of thumb is to wash hands while singing the “Happy Birthday” song twice, ensuring the proper amount of time is spent washing.

A Supportive Routine for Success

The message from Kroger Health is clear: to set children up for success in the classroom, it is vital to combine preventive care, healthy habits, and regular checkups. Dr. Watkins from Kroger Health urges families, “By integrating these practices, you can ensure your child is poised for a productive school year.”

For families interested in scheduling a back-to-school physical or vaccination appointments, Kroger Health makes it easy to get started. Visit www.krogerhealth.com or stop by The Little Clinic in selected Kroger Family of Stores to prepare your child for the upcoming school year.

About Kroger Health

Kroger Health stands as a leader in retail healthcare, serving over 17 million patients annually. With a commitment to health, Kroger Family of Pharmacies runs more than 2,200 pharmacies across 35 states, offering a wide range of healthcare services including telehealth options.

Through a skilled team of healthcare professionals, Kroger aims to tackle disease prevention through proactive health solutions, always encouraging communities to live healthier lives.

In these unprecedented times, prioritizing health for both parents and children is more crucial than ever. Ensure you and your family are equipped with the knowledge and resources to start the school year strong.