It’s back-to-school season again where food in the house gets to rest and you don’t have to keep resolving petty quarrels which can sometimes transition to huuuuggggeeee fights, lol, or even having to arrange the house repeatedly. I bet as a parent you understand what I mean, children are a big blessing, and they surely can be a handful, right?

Beginning a new session does throw in a lot of mixed feelings apart from the fact that the house gets a breather (wink), you’re probably worried about so many things like probably it’s your child’s first day at school, will they cope and not have stranger anxiety? Your child has probably changed schools and you’re wondering if they would blend in, or your child didn’t pretty do well in the last session and you’re scared if they’d get better at this new start or let’s flip the coin, you as a parent have taken on more responsibilities and wondering if you’d cope with all the school runs and demands. I want to reassure you that your concerns are very valid and as a parent, looking out for your child’s welfare is something that comes naturally.

Now this season doesn’t have to overly scare you and catch you unprepared. There are a few things that you can do to help you be on top of your game as your children resume school and keep you as a superhero in their eyes. You and your little champ don’t need to be stressed this period, it’s like being given a new slate to write/document whatever you desire and I’m sure you’d want to look back and smile as it brings you positive memories. We’d be sharing these tips with you and trust they’d go a long way in helping you navigate.

Have a checklist of items needed.

I am aware that many parents worry about the costs they will have to cover at the start of a new term. Everything your child needs to feel comfortable, including tuition, uniforms, lunch packs, transportation and sporting gears. This worry can be reduced by making a list of everything your child will require, from the most essential items to the least. This way, nothing will be forgotten. Once you’ve gone through the list, cross off the essentials while removing the stuff you know your youngster can live without. Knowing what you must purchase enables you to locate suppliers and compare costs to prevent overspending. Make sure to conduct thorough research on vendors who will provide quality at reasonable pricing because during this season every kobo counts.

Meal planning is a life saver.

This may not be too common in this part of the world but it’s indeed a life saver. Having to plan what your child will eat and take to school helps save a lot of time; helps you intentionally plan nutritious meals for your little ones and helps you focus on other things because you know one aspect is sorted. And do you know what? It can be done on a weekly basis, so you don’t have to worry about planning a bulk of food. Involve your child and make it creative and children love colors. Breakfast, lunch pack, snacks and dinner can be planned.

 

Make bulk purchase of healthy lunch snacks.

In these times where everything is expensive and prices are rising daily, I’m sure many of us already know that buying in bulk is the best alternative. To prevent having to go to Mama Amaka every week, buy as many of the kinds of snacks your kids like and enjoy in bulk. Additionally, buying in bulk gives you peace of mind that your children’s supplies are readily available. Just make sure that they are fresh and that their expiration dates are within the time range for use.

Create a healthy sleep routine.

Sleep is one of the most important aspects of a child’s school life and overall development. Making sure they receive enough sleep will allow them to replenish the energy they are using. Set a bedtime routine for your child and adhere to it; ensure that all homework has been completed and that the environment is peaceful and quiet to promote deep sleep. Make sure they don’t suffer from sleep deprivation so they can be successful in school. Your preschooler/middle-aged school child requires about 8–10 hours of sleep, while your teenager needs about 7-9 hours.

Do the homework space fun and engaging.

Time for homework doesn’t have to be boring and a tug-of-war, you can make your child interested in doing their homework. Make out a well-organized space, with different educative materials either as sticky notes on the wall or around the table. Make the space well lighted with a table and comfortable chair and watch your child being eager whenever it’s homework time.

Preparation of the school environment

There’s nothing that gives you comfort as a parent than knowing that your children are in safe hands. The school can also help play their part by ensuring that the school environment is in good shape; grass has been cut to prevent snakes and other reptiles, classrooms have been fumigated/sanitized, sanitation facilities working in good conditions and security is highly effective. A school health plan is another great bonus; this involves your child being taken care of health-wise in case of emergencies. The school can purchase this service from an HMO like HCI Healthcare that offers robust packages to keep your child covered and all you must do as a parent is discuss with the school and the additional cost be added to the school fees.

 

Let this back-to-school period light up your face. One additional and important way to keep stress away is making sure your child is covered under a school health plan to cater for any illness that may arise during the school period, from injuries to colds and flus and other possibly more serious conditions. Wondering where and how to get access to this? Don’t worry! HCI HMO has you covered. At HCI Healthcare, we have a school health plans specially crafted for your little one and schools that are interested in partnering with us in this season.

Want to find out more? Why not reach out to us and we’d be glad to explore the options with you.

 

We wish you all the best & Happy Resumption.

Written By:
Rebecca Adeleke-Adesanmi, BSc. Nur., MA, Healthcare Mgt.
Health & Wellness Advocate,
HCI Healthcare HMO

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