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Newswise — EAST LANSING, Mich. — Over 50 million K-12 students across the United States will return to classrooms this month, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Michigan State University experts provide guidance on how to ensure students are physically and mentally prepared for the new school year.
Robert Root is an associate chief medical officer and board-certified pediatrician with MSU Health Care. He specializes in pediatrics and the importance of vaccines when returning to school.
“Vaccines are a critical tool in ensuring a safe return to school for our children. They not only protect the individual child but also help safeguard the entire school community. I advocate for staying up to date with required vaccinations, including those for COVID-19 and the flu, as they play a key role in reducing the spread of preventable diseases and allow our children to thrive in a healthy learning environment.”
John Carlson is a licensed psychologist and professor of school psychology, as well as a health service psychologist. He specializes in examining the effectiveness of medical and psychological interventions on children’s behaviors and how they are impacted by anxiety in schools.
“Our children need hard experiences, like switching schools, to build healthy adaptation and adjustment habits. Doing so under a caregiver’s watchful assurance is key. By being extra presently supportive for your child, both prior to and in the weeks following your child’s new experience, you can create a safe space for your child to express their thoughts and feelings about both their new and old school experience. Be sure to find ways for your family to uniquely celebrate this upcoming school change. Take time to transport yourselves to the school to take a tour and walk the halls together during these last days of summer. Then grab lunch, a snack or spend some time together doing an activity your child finds fun.”
Jed Magen is the chair of the Department of Psychiatry and provides care as a board-certified psychiatrist at MSU Health Care. He specializes in child and adolescent psychiatry and mental wellness for children and adults returning to school.
“Ensuring mental wellness is just as important as physical health when children and adults are returning to school. The transition back to the school environment can be both exciting and challenging. I emphasize the importance of open communication, understanding emotions and seeking support when needed. By fostering a nurturing and compassionate atmosphere, we can empower students to cope with stress, build resilience and cultivate a positive mental well-being that will pave the way for success in both academic and personal growth.”
Ryan Thomas is the chief of pediatric pulmonology and provides care as a board-certified pediatric pulmonologist at MSU Health Care. He specializes in asthma treatment and asthma action plans.
“Back to school is a high-risk time for kids with asthma. Most years, September is the month with the highest number of hospitalizations for asthma. Asthma action plans are a tool for children with asthma as they head back to school. These plans provide a clear roadmap for managing asthma symptoms and responding to potential triggers in the school environment. By working collaboratively with parents, teachers and health care providers, we can ensure a safe and supportive educational experience for children with asthma.”
Sandy Campbell is the director of the MSU Health Care Pharmacy. She specializes in pharmaceuticals and drug mitigation strategies.
“Managing drug shortages and challenges related to ADHD medications is a top priority at MSU Health Care Pharmacy. We understand the significant impact these shortages can have on children’s education and well-being as they head back to school. Our team is actively engaged in implementing strategic mitigation measures to ensure that patients receive the necessary medications, including exploring alternative treatment options and closely collaborating with health care providers. We are committed to providing comprehensive care, and we are dedicated to supporting students with ADHD to thrive academically and emotionally throughout the school year.”
Micah Lissy is the interim chairperson of the Department of Orthopedics and provides care at MSU Health Care Sports Medicine as an orthopedic surgeon. Lissy is also a team physician for MSU Athletics. He specializes in sports medicine, high school sports injuries and injury prevention upon returning to play.is the interim chairperson of the Department of Orthopedics and provides care at MSU Health Care Sports Medicine as an orthopedic surgeon. Dr. Lissy is also a team physician for MSU Athletics. He specializes in sports medicine, high school sports injuries, and injury prevention upon returning to play.
“Returning to school is an exciting time for many reasons, including returning to school sports. No matter what your summer looked like, here are some essentials for ‘getting back in the groove,’ avoiding injury and having a fun, successful season. Communicate any pain or discomfort to parents, trainers and coaches early on, so we can intervene before it becomes a more serious issue. Prepare for the season with a pre-participation examination, stay hydrated, fuel your body with a healthy diet, and wear proper protective gear. Train mindfully with warm-ups, cool-downs, and sufficient breaks for recovery. Cross-train to be a well-rounded athlete, learn proper techniques, and follow guidelines for safe play.”
Lucia Cardenas Curiel is an assistant professor in the College of Education. She specializes in the relationship between language and literacy, and how students develop skills in multiple subject areas.
“Bilingual language learners, or BLLs, in schools are mostly students who were born in the U.S. from immigrant parents. A first step in creating a positive environment for BLLs is to make them feel welcomed and comfortable. You also should help build their confidence and help them create relationships with their classmates. Teachers also should pay attention on how to pronounce students’ names correctly. Some BLLs may go through what we call ‘the silent period,’ a time where they are listening to a new language and avoid talking. Be patient and provide opportunities for students to talk to each other in small groups.
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