MILWAUKEE — As the countdown to the new school year begins, parents are juggling a lot of things, from buying supplies and clothes to scheduling essential appointments.
Amy Strand spent a recent day shopping at The Corners of Brookfield with her son, Wesley, who will start preschool in about a month. While Wesley Strand enjoys running around more than shopping, he said he’s excited about his new school supplies.
“I got an alligator and Bluey,” Wesley Strand said proudly, referring to his new folders.
“We actually went school supply shopping the other day,” Amy Strand said. “He got to pick out his folders and crayons, so we are looking forward to it.”
Shopping centers aren’t the only places busy at this time of year. Pediatrician offices are too.
Dr. Peter Roloff, a pediatrician with Children’s Wisconsin, said his calendar is filling up with back-to-school wellness checks.
“A lot of parents forget about it until the last minute, and then there’s also a lot of athletes trying to get their pre-sport physicals,” said Roloff.
Schools typically require current health records, including vaccination updates. Roloff stressed the importance of vaccines, especially in the wake of the pandemic.
“Vaccines are crucial nowadays, as there are many viruses spreading more easily. Key ages for vaccines are 4K and kindergarten, middle-schoolers aged 11 and 12, and college-bound students,” he said.
During check-ups, Roloff said he likes to share practical health tips with his patients, like the proper way to wear a backpack.
“We encourage using both straps to distribute weight evenly. Roller boards are also effective. Middle-schoolers and high-schoolers should use their lockers, even though it might not be considered ‘cool,’ to avoid carrying everything around,” said Roloff.
He also recommended that students get back into a good sleep routine.
“I encourage families to switch to school sleep schedules about three weeks before school starts,” said Roloff.
Amy Strand said all the appointments and planning will be worth it, once Wesley starts his very first year of school.
“I’m excited for him. He’s ready. He has always stayed at home with me, which is fun, but he needs the social interaction and learning environment,” she said.