Back To School: Healthy Kids, Healthy Schools

Another school year is quickly approaching and many Arizonans are preparing to send their kids back to the classroom. It’s important that we all work together to provide a supportive environment to help students thrive physically, mentally, and academically. 

Below are some back-to-school reminders and resources to help make this transition a bit easier. 

Birth certificates

Birth certificates are needed for school files and registration. Visit the Bureau of Vital Records website for information on how to order your child’s birth certificate. You may also contact your local County Vital Records Office or call 602-364-1300. 

Vaccinations

You can ensure your child is fully protected by getting them the right vaccines at the right time. Arizona schools and child care facilities require children to be up-to-date on specific vaccines.

• Vaccinations required for child care, preschool, or Head Start.
• Vaccinations required for kindergarten through grade 12.

Need your child’s vaccine record? You can contact your child’s health care provider or the local county health department, or complete the ADHS immunization records request form. If you need additional support in obtaining your child’s vaccination records, please call 602-364-3630.

The Arizona Partnership for Immunization offers a guide on where you can take your child for vaccinations. The ADHS Vaccines for Children Program provides vaccines at no cost to children under 18 for families who may need financial support with vaccines for their children.

Healthy eating 

The start of the school year is a great time for families to eat like superheroes by enjoying balanced meals and trying new fruits and vegetables. Eating a variety of foods helps children grow strong and stay focused throughout the school day. Make sure to talk to your school about school lunch options, including programs your child may be eligible for. For healthy tips and recipes for you and your family, visit AZ Health Zone. 

Moving more

Did you know physical activity can help academic performance and social skills? That’s why kids need to move, play, and be active daily. While children can be very physically active at school, movement as a family is also important for bonding, memories, and modeling healthy behavior. Don’t forget, adults need to move too, and all movement counts!

Visit AZ Health Zone and Move Your Way for fun activities you and your child can do to get more movement in your day.

SunWise 

On average, a person living in Arizona will experience more than 300 days of sun every year. The best way to protect your child from skin cancer is by protecting their skin from UV rays. 

The Arizona SunWise Skin Cancer Prevention Program has sun safety tips and resources. Be SunWise this summer by limiting the sun, not the fun!

Heat illness prevention

Children need to know the signs of heat illness and communicate when they see them or experience them at school. To prevent heat illness, students must be properly fueled! That means they should drink plenty of water and eat throughout the day. When drinking with water, salty snacks can help increase electrolytes. Sign up for excessive heat warnings to stay alert and informed.  

We hope everyone has a happy, healthy, and productive school year!