As fall approaches, you may shift your focus from summer fun to getting kids ready for school. While this time of year can be busy, you should still prioritize your health as a parent. By putting your wellness first, you’ll have more energy to tackle the heavy demands of your student’s schedule and reduce the risk of bringing illness into the home. To help you get a healthy start to the school year, here are a few self-care tips that primary care providers recommend for parents.

Health Advice for Parents During the School Season

1. Embrace Meal Planning

Fast food can be an attractive and convenient option for busy families, but these quick meals tend to be full of unhealthy components that can contribute to weight gain, high cholesterol, and diabetes. To avoid the pitfalls of fast food, consider making a healthy meal plan every week. On Sunday, prepare and freeze meals ahead of time so that it only takes a few minutes to get dinner on the table.

2. Take Advantage of Exercise Opportunities

The CDC recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week to maintain personal health. However, it can be hard to get to the gym between parental duties. If you can’t find time for fitness, consider making exercise part of your routine with your child. For example, walk or ride bikes together to drop your kid off at school.

3. Stay Smart About Sick Days

If you’re caring for an ill child, deter the spread of germs by letting them recover in a designated sick room, washing your hands frequently, and encouraging little ones to cough and sneeze into their arms. You and your children should also visit a primary care provider for a flu vaccine to help strengthen your immune systems.

4. Schedule Time to Socialize

Plan date nights or friend hangouts every week or so — at least once a month — to ensure you have some quality adult time. Getting out and socializing is a smart, fun way to reduce stress and anxiety for better mental health.

5. Stick to a Sleeping Routine

Set bedtimes to ensure that both you and your children get a full night’s sleep. Ensure the bedrooms are dark, cool, and quiet to ensure quality rest. During the weekend, try to stick to this schedule so that you don’t throw off the routine.

Delhi Internal Medicine understands that back-to-school season is an incredibly busy time, which is why they strive to deliver convenient health care for adults. Based in Cincinnati, OH, this primary care provider offers comprehensive care to address health concerns ranging from diabetes to depression. To accommodate your schedule, this friendly practice offers extended hours on Wednesdays, as well as a 24-hour helpline and email support. Visit the local clinic online to learn more about their services, or call (513) 347-3302 to schedule a checkup with a primary care provider.