Expert Tips to Keep Kids Healthy During Back-to-School Season Amid Heat and Mental Wellness Challenges

As students prepare to return to classrooms, parents and educators are focusing on maintaining both physical and mental health to ensure optimal learning and development. With ongoing high temperatures extending into the new school year, managing heat stress has become a priority. According to Professor of Kinesiology Toby Mündel from Brock University, the summer heat can impair children’s alertness, mood, and concentration, even if they are otherwise healthy.

To combat the effects of heat, schools can adopt several practical measures. These include installing curtains or blinds on windows to block sunlight, using ceiling fans and strategically placing additional fans, creating shaded outdoor learning spaces with tarps, and designing school grounds with green trees and shrubs. These vegetative elements provide natural shade, reduce solar radiation, and help regulate temperature. It’s also vital for children to get sufficient sleep, start their day with a nutritious breakfast, and stay well-hydrated to better cope with high temperatures.

Nutrition and physical activity play key roles in supporting children’s physical resilience. Professor Nota Klentrou highlights the importance of a balanced diet rich in protein, calcium, and vitamin D—foods such as dairy, beans, nuts, and tofu—that promote strong bones and muscles. Regular movement, including resistance exercises like weight training and high-impact activities like jumping and running, stimulate bone density and muscle strength, as recommended by the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines.

Mental health is equally critical, especially considering the social and emotional disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Children and adolescents faced decreased social interactions, limiting opportunities for connection and community building. This has led to challenges in communication, social skills, and increased behavioral issues. Educators are encouraged to incorporate mindfulness practices into daily routines, such as breathing exercises and mindful listening, to help students manage stress and anxiety.

Teachers themselves have also experienced pandemic-related stress, with many overburdened or on leave. Self-care strategies like mindfulness, outdoor walks, and wellness activities are recommended for educators to maintain their well-being and effectively support students.

Ensuring a supportive environment that addresses both the physical and mental needs of students will foster healthier, more engaged learners as they transition back to school amidst challenging weather and social conditions.