With students returning to classrooms across the city, the pediatrics chief known to many local families as "Dr. J" is urging parents to prioritize comprehensive health checkups and establish healthy routines before the academic year gets into full swing.
Dr. Bradley Jacoby, chief of pediatrics for Kaiser Permanente Riverside County, said the back-to-school period offers families an ideal opportunity to address physical, mental and emotional health needs that can impact academic success.
"Back-to-school season is more than just shopping for supplies. It's a chance to set the tone for a healthy, balanced year ahead," Dr. J said. "By focusing on physical and emotional well-being, parents can help their children feel energized and ready to thrive in and out of the classroom."
Sleep schedules top Dr. J's list of health priorities. He recommends parents begin adjusting bedtimes approximately two weeks before school starts, gradually shifting sleep and wake times earlier by 15-30 minutes every few days.
According to American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines, elementary school children ages 6-12 need 9-12 hours of sleep nightly, while teenagers require 8-10 hours. Dr. J advises establishing calming bedtime routines and limiting screen time at least one hour before bed.
"Summer often brings later bedtimes and relaxed routines, but quality sleep is crucial for learning," Dr. J said.
The pediatrics chief also stressed the importance of updating vaccinations before school starts, including flu and COVID-19 vaccines.
"Vaccination continues to be one of the safest and most effective ways to protect against illness and reduce the severity of illness," Dr. J said. "Vaccinations mean fewer sick days, hospital stays, emergency room visits and other health complications."
Beyond preventive medical care, Dr. J outlined several daily health practices families should reinforce:
Nutrition and Hydration: A balanced diet featuring fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins strengthens immune systems. Dr. J particularly emphasized the importance of healthy breakfasts for learning and concentration.
Physical Activity: Children need at least 60 minutes of daily physical activity through sports, walking, biking or active play. As organized sports resume, proper warm-ups, hydration and appropriate safety gear become essential for injury prevention.
Hygiene Habits: With germs spreading rapidly in classroom settings, frequent handwashing remains critical. Dr. J recommends packing hand sanitizer and teaching children to cover coughs and sneezes with their elbows while avoiding sharing personal items.
The local pediatrician also highlighted often-overlooked health screenings that can significantly impact academic performance.
"Undiagnosed vision or hearing problems can affect learning and behavior, so screenings are particularly important at the start of the school year," Dr. J said. He advised parents to watch for signs like squinting, frequent headaches or difficulty following instructions.
Dental health also plays a role in school success. Dr. J noted that untreated cavities can cause pain and distraction, leading to missed school days. He recommends scheduling dental visits before school starts for cleanings and preventive care.
Mental health emerged as an equally important consideration in Dr. J's recommendations. He acknowledged that returning to school can trigger both excitement and anxiety in students.
"The AAP emphasizes that mental health is just as important as physical health," Dr. J said. "Check in regularly with your child about how they're feeling, encourage open conversations and validate their emotions."
He advised parents not to hesitate in reaching out to school counselors or mental health professionals if concerns arise.
"From sleep and nutrition to preventive care and emotional well-being, here are a few of the top health priorities to focus on as students head back to the classroom," Dr. J said.
