Families in the UK are being urged by a doctor to make one change before children return to school in September: treat the new school year as a health "reset."
Dr Reem Hasan, Chief Medical Officer at Vista Health and NHS GP, recognises that the start of the new school year can bring excitement but warns that it can also disrupt routines, bring worries for children, and come with an increased risk of common illnesses spreading.
Why September is a key time for health
Dr Hasan said: "September is a natural reset for many families. Going back to school brings excitement, new friendships and new opportunities for children, but it can also bring worries and the pressures of settling back into a routine."
She advised parents to "make time to ask children how they are feeling, really listen to what they tell you and be alert to changes in mood, sleep or behaviour." Dr Hasan also said parents should keep an open dialogue with teachers and school staff so any concerns can be identified early.
Preparing for seasonal respiratory infections
As temperatures begin to fall, Dr Hasan said families should prepare for the return of seasonal respiratory infections. She warned that there is no single food or supplement that can "boost" immunity.
She said: "As we move into autumn, we also start to see more seasonal respiratory infections circulating, so it is a good time for the whole family to focus on the foundations that support good health and normal immune function."
"There is no single food, supplement or quick fix that 'boosts' immunity. A varied, balanced diet, regular physical activity, good quality sleep, recommended vaccinations and looking after our mental wellbeing all play a part."
Outdoor activity and parental health
Families have also been encouraged not to abandon outdoor activity due to the dropping temperatures. The doctor emphasised that activities including walking, cycling, outdoor time, and play play a huge role in supporting physical and mental wellbeing for the whole family.
Research by Vista Health found that nearly half of British workers carried on working while feeling unwell this summer, for an average of six days. The poll of 2,000 people also found that half of Brits worry they will head into autumn already feeling tired or run down, while 27% fear having low energy.
Dr Hasan said: "For parents, the important message is not to forget your own health in the process. Children learn a great deal from what they see us doing. It doesn't need to be perfect. A few small, sustainable changes made together as a family can be far more powerful than trying to overhaul everything at once."
