Children’s Dental Health Month

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month!

Having healthy teeth helps you chew foods, speak clearly, and look your best. By taking care of your teeth you can help prevent plaque (a film of bacteria that sticks to your teeth) and can cause gum problems and cavities – both of which can be very painful!

 

You should be brushing your teeth 2 times a day – usually after breakfast and before bed (but it is also great to brush after lunch and/or sugary snacks) – for at least 2 or 3 minutes each time you brush.

In addition to this, it is important to:

• Brush ALL of your teeth, especially the back ones
• Brush your tongue
• Floss
• Change your toothbrush every 3 months
• Visit the dentist twice a year (or more often if needed)
• Ask your doctor if you should be using an antibacterial mouth rinse
• Choose clean, tap water to drink over other beverages
• Limit sugary treats and drinks

 

Click here for fun dental activity sheets, such as the ones below:

For more information on dental health, click here

Back to School Health Tips

As summer winds down, freshen up on back to school health tips so your family is prepared for the school year.

 

CBS News article “Back-to-School health tips for parents and kids” recommends these tips to get your family on track for a healthy school year:

 

1. Establish a sleep routine

A week or two before school starts, start bedtime one hour earlier every night and waking up earlier until the new routine is established

How much sleep does your children need?

Ages 3-5:   10 to 13 hours a night

Ages 6-13:   9 to 11 hours a night

Ages 14+: 8 to 10 hours a night

**2015 Guidelines provided by the National Sleep Foundation

To help children fall asleep easier, turn the lights down and put away electronic devices at least an hour or two before bedtime

 

2. Get an annual physical

Try to schedule an appointment before school starts so that you can ensure your child’s medical records and vaccinations are up to date.

 

3. Schedule an eye exam

Children may not say anything or notice if they are having vision problems. If your child is having vision problems, they may be getting headaches, perform poorly in school, or even show behavioral problems.

 

4. Have a dental check up

Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic conditions among children and can cause a high amount of missed school days

 

5. Eat healthier!

Children typically eat less healthy in the summer. Help your child get back into a healthy routine by ensuring they eat three meals a day and by sitting down together for dinner when possible.

 

6. Choose the right backpack

Backpacks can put strain on children’s neck, shoulders, and back – especially when only slung over one shoulder. See if your school allows rolling backpacks or if they can store some items at school/home.

 

7. Create a regular homework time

Children need a consistent study place and time, away from noise and distractions. If your child is struggling in a subject or has problems focusing, discuss this with a teacher or counselor to determine the best solution.

 

8. If your child has ADD or ADHD…

The most important thing is that your child is getting the correct amount of sleep, has a healthy eating pattern, and is taking their medication (if that is what your family chooses to use).

If your child does take medication but took a break in the summer, try starting it up again a week before school so that they can get adjusted beforehand.

To help them readjust to the demands of school, try limiting screen time and re-establishing a reading time two weeks before school starts.