Back to School Tips for Parents of Preschool Aged Children

"It's the most wonderful time of the year..." a major office supply store used this Christmas song for a Back to School television advertisement years ago. The children, with their heads hanging low, walked slowly and mournfully through the store while they're parents shopped with glee and excitement for school supplies as the song played on. I'm quite sure that many of you feel the same way! Well you not only have to buy school supplies, you also have to make sure your children are healthy for the upcoming school year, and for parents of preschool aged children there's even more you must do! With these 8 essential tips, you can ensure your toddler is healthy for the upcoming school year.

Schedule Medical Appointments - Make sure your child sees the dentist and primary care physician before school starts. Depending on your child's age, s/he may need immunization shots before entering school or a general physical. Also, have your child's teeth examined and cleaned.

Get back to Routines - Get your little one back to a similar school routine with naps and eating prior to school starting. Make sure s/he is eating and sleeping at regular times. This will ensure an easier transition into the school year.

Personal Hygiene - Reinforce potty procedures, make sure your child wipes properly and washes hands after using the bathroom. Also, reinforce that potty time is private time! Make up a song that your toddler can remember so that s/he completes each step without missing a beat. In addition, discuss sharing with your toddler; explain to your child that s/he can share crayons, toys or games but never drinks or food. For example, your child should never let another take a bite of his or her sandwich or take a drink of his or her milk.

Phone- Make sure your toddler knows his or her address and telephone number. Also make sure s/he knows how to use the telephone in case of an emergency. Spend time practicing on how to dial and answer both home and cell phones. Let your child answer the phone as well so s/he knows how to use both phones.

Recall details of an event and/or school day - Question your child about what he or she did during the day, whether it is a visit to grandmother, swim class, birthday party or time with you. Make it a habit to discuss and retell the events of the day. As parents, we often worry about our little ones when they aren't in our care and questioning can help build your child's communication skills and keep you in the know. Make it a comfortable experience for your child so s/he will share not only the good but things that make them feel uncomfortable as well. You can then follow up with whomever you need to but make sure you praise your little one for sharing the details with you.

Tour the school - if this is a new school for your child, take your child with you. Let your child get a sense of what his or her surroundings will be like. Speak to the staff and pay attention to your child's reactions. Is the school child centered? Are the activities stimulating enough for your child? Is there an open door policy? Can you drop in whenever you want to check up on your little one? Get to know the school secretary as most secretaries are the gatekeepers of information. Familiarize yourself with key people at your child's school.

Partner with your child's school - Get involved in your child's education. This doesn't mean showing up at every event or volunteering for every project under the sun. It simply means staying in the know. Make it your business to know what's going on in the school and what your child is learning. Do what you can to ensure your child is successful. Reach out to his or her teacher for ways or resources that will help you help your child.

Nutrition - Make sure your child eats healthy foods, food rich in nutrients. Pack baby carrots, cheerios or other healthy snacks for your child. The best time to instill healthy eating habits is now! The earlier the better and the more likely your child will stick with them.

Finally, we will always worry about our children when they are away but it is our job to make sure they are prepared. As parents, we are our children's first teacher and we have to make sure we're doing all we can to keep our children healthy.