1) Make sure immunizations, especially to enter pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten (ages 4 and 5) and 6th grade (ages 11 and 12), are completed.

2) Be aware that the 2010-2011 flu vaccine that contains both the seasonal and H1N1 protection is available.

3) Communicate to the school important health information, including medical, psycho-social or mental health concerns that may need monitoring. Medical concerns would include any chronic illness — especially asthma or diabetes. Psycho-social concerns might  include family changes, death, new siblings, a new school, etc. Mental health concerns might include ADHD, depression or anxiety.

4) Keep in mind: even though adults have many daily responsibilities and stressors, children are under stress too. A child may not be able to best learn if burdened and preoccupied by other issues.

5) Parents have resources to aide them with these issues located within the school building. There is the parent coordinator, the teacher, guidance counselor, assistant principal and principal. There may also be an after-school program that provides enrichment and expanded dance, sports, tutoring, etc.

6) Most importantly, if your child attends a school where there is a school-based health center, the parent should register the child. These full-service clinics maintain confidentiality according to HIPPA regulations and provide comprehensive medical and mental health services at no cost.

Source: Jacqueline M. Kelderhouse, DNPc, MS, RN, FNP-BC, Family Nurse Practitioner, Montefiore School Health Program