ParentsKids
Proactive Steps for Your Child's Health This Summer

Summer is an opportune time to address your child's health needs before the next school year. Dr. Shari Eich from Avera Physician emphasizes the importance of early planning and maintaining healthy habits during the break. Scheduling medical appointments in advance can prevent last-minute rushes when slots are limited. Additionally, focusing on consistent routines ensures children stay healthy throughout the summer.
Dr. Eich highlights that summer passes quickly, and procrastination can lead to missed opportunities for ensuring a child’s well-being. By acting now, parents can secure essential check-ups and reinforce positive lifestyle practices, preparing their kids for a successful academic year ahead.
Planning Ahead for Medical Appointments
Acting early is crucial for securing timely medical evaluations for children. As summer progresses swiftly, delays in scheduling could result in unavailable appointment slots closer to the new school term. Parents should prioritize booking these consultations as soon as possible, even if they occur later in the season like August.
Scheduling ahead offers numerous benefits. It reduces stress associated with finding availability at short notice and guarantees peace of mind knowing critical health assessments won’t be overlooked. Moreover, this proactive approach allows families to manage any necessary follow-up care efficiently. For instance, identifying potential issues such as vaccinations or dental work gives ample time for resolution without disrupting the start of school.
Maintaining Healthy Habits Over the Break
While summer provides a relaxed atmosphere, it also poses challenges for sustaining beneficial routines established during the school year. To counteract this, parents must encourage their children to adhere to structured schedules involving sleep, nutrition, and physical activity. These elements contribute significantly to overall wellness and readiness for learning upon returning to class.
Encouraging balanced meals, adequate rest, and regular exercise helps children maintain optimal health over the summer months. Dr. Eich suggests integrating fun activities into daily plans so kids remain engaged while staying active. Furthermore, limiting screen time fosters healthier interactions and promotes mental clarity. By reinforcing these habits consistently, parents ensure their children return refreshed and prepared for the demands of the upcoming school year. This focus on prevention and preparation ultimately leads to better outcomes both academically and physically.

Iconic pediatrician and author of "Baby and Child Care," which revolutionized permissive parenting.
Other Articles
Reviving History: A Digital Journey Through Colorado's Past
The Summit Daily News, supported by its readers, is undertaking a significant multiyear initiative to digitize its archives from 1989 onwards. This project aims to make historical content accessible to the public via the Colorado Historic Newspapers Collection. With an estimated cost of $165,000, all donations received in 2023 will be allocated directly to this endeavor. Contributions of any size are encouraged and will play a crucial role in preserving and sharing the newspaper's rich history. Tax-deductible donation options are also available for those interested in supporting the project financially.
By Adele FaberEmpowering Dyslexic Learners: A Transformative Educational Journey
Henry Dunbar, a 10-year-old boy with severe auditory processing disorder and suspected dyslexia, struggled academically despite excelling in hands-on tasks. His homeschooling environment, which worked for his siblings, did not suit him. After trying various educational settings, including public school special education services, Henry thrived at Horizon Academy, a private school specializing in dyslexia. The academy's tailored instruction, Orton-Gillingham method, and supportive environment have significantly improved his reading skills and confidence. Similarly, Lily Reardon benefited from Horizon's approach after her parents identified her dyslexia. While Horizon offers specialized support, its high cost limits accessibility for many families. The school emphasizes early intervention and multisensory teaching methods to help students like Henry and Lily succeed before transitioning back to traditional schools.
By Adele FaberGeneration Alpha: Navigating the Consumerist Journey
Brianna White's daughters, part of Generation Alpha, exemplify the growing influence children have on household spending. Despite Amazon's restrictions on advertising to children under 13, its catalog and online presence heavily feature toys and gifts, impacting young consumers. Parents like White face challenges managing their children’s consumer impulses amidst constant exposure to advertisements and social media. Retail analyst Claire Tassin notes this exposure affects kids' purchasing requests and expectations. Some parents implement strategies such as toy moratoriums, teaching about product quality, or using cash allowances to instill responsible spending habits. Natalie Miller emphasizes sustainability by involving her son in secondhand shopping, fostering mindful consumption. Experts suggest engaging children in discussions about their preferences to counteract increasing consumerism pressures.
By Jessica Lahey