As summer fades and the back-to-school season approaches, local experts in the Southlake area are brimming with valuable advice to ensure a smooth transition for students. From assistance on picking out practical backpacks to establishing healthy routines, these tips offer guidance for preparing children to face the new academic year with confidence. 

Tips from Dr. Meghan York at Loving Life Chiropractic

• Set your child’s sleep schedules back to “School Time” two weeks before the big day.
• Practice your new routine a few days before school starts.
• Positive affirmations to help encourage a great mindset and help your child focus on the positive!
• Consistent chiropractic care to help ease anxiety + stress and boost their immune system.

Back to School Backpack Tips from KinActive Kids

• Ensure that the backpack’s height extends from approximately 2 inches below the shoulder blades to waist level or slightly above the waist.
• Always choose backpacks with well-padded shoulder straps, and make sure your kiddo wears their bag on both shoulders!
• Distribute weight evenly! Load the heaviest items closest to the child’s back and balance the contents so your little one can easily stand up straight.
• Use the backpack’s hip belt to improve balance and relieve strain on your kids’ sensitive neck and shoulder muscles.
• If your little one’s backpack weighs more than 10-15% of their body weight, then try to lighten the load! See what items can stay at home instead!

Tips from Dr. Melissa Asgaonkar, Arbor Pediatrics

•  Being tired makes everything harder! Slowly roll back bedtime weeks before school starts so that it isn’t drastic and a negative start to the school year.
• Every student is starting something new whether it’s kinder or 12th grade. It’s normal to be nervous or feel a little insecure. Use positive language, acknowledge nervousness but focus on the positives and manifest success!
• Create or declutter a workspace for the kids to do their school work. Organizing a space can be fun and create excitement for using the space once school starts!

Dental Tips from Giggles and Grins Pediatrics

• Schedule your routine check up for before school starts and get it cross off the to do list.
• Make sure you have your fresh mouthguard ready to go for those fall sports.
• Keep a spare toothbrush and flossers in your backpack to freshen up after lunch or those extra early mornings. 

Wellness Tips from “Dr. B” of XPressDoc

• Ensure your child is medically cleared for school activities and sports by scheduling a comprehensive physical exam.
• Keep your child’s vaccinations up to date to protect against common school-related illnesses. 
• Teach your child proper hand-washing techniques. Encourage them to wash their hands before meals, after using the restroom, and after coming home from school to minimize the spread of germs.
• Ensure your child has a nutritious breakfast to provide energy and improve concentration throughout the day.