Back to School in ‘22 Back to school: it can be the most wonderful time of the year! It’s perfectly common, however, to feel all the feelings from excitement and curiosity, to nervousness and uncertainty. In this toolkit, Connecticut Children’s pediatric experts share helpful, age-appropriate tips to navigate the start of the school year and set your child up for success. Get answers to questions about tackling tough conversation topics, easing stomach pains, preventing sports injuries and a whole lot more. Is your child caught up on their doctor visits? If not, Schedule a Video Visit or book an in-person appointment close to home. Backpack Wearing Do’s and Don’tsBackpacks—customizable and colorful—are the ultimate in self-expression. But—when not worn properly, they can cause problems in kids’ muscles, joints and—well—back. Learn how to nip that in the bud. Learn More The Pressure to Win: Sports and Your Child’s Mental HealthA sport can all too easily switch from a source of joy to a source of stress. The good news: you can help make sure your child gets all the benefits of their sport while managing all the pressures. Learn More Healthy Snacks for the School YearSnacking is a great way to keep kids energized and boost their nutrient intake, but keeping it creative and healthy can sometimes feel beyond imagination. Don’t fear—there are lots of (easy) options if you’re crunched for time. Learn More Should My Child Under 5 Get the COVID-19 Vaccine?The Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for children 6 months to 4 years are now authorized. Should your young child get vaccinated? Is it safe? What else should I know? We have all the answers. Learn More Back to School—Back to Sleep—Back on Track! A good night’s sleep is essential. School performance, behavior and mood all depend on it. Connecticut Children’s Sleep Center experts share helpful techniques for a better back-to-school sleep schedule. Learn More How to Discuss Racial Inequality and Social Justice With Kids Did you know you can start talking to children about racial inequality and social justice at any age? Get the conversation going with these tips and talking points by age group, from developmental pediatric experts. Learn More How to Talk to Teens About Dating SafelyEveryone, at every age, deserves healthy, fulfilling relationships. For teens who are just starting out, it’s not always easy to know what that means. How can you help your teen navigate the dating world? Learn More Tummy Troubles: Back to School Nerves, or Something Else? What’s a parent to do when they hear, “My tummy hurts—I can’t go to school,” even after a visit (or two) to the doctor? Are these complaints “legit” or are they a result of back-to-school anxiety? Find out more. Learn More Hearing Loss Tips for ParentsWhat should parents know about school-aged kids with hearing loss? Or, what steps should parents take if they suspect their child has hearing loss, but aren’t sure? Our ear, nose and throat experts weigh in. Learn More Changing How We Talk to Kids About Wearing Masks How can we help kids feel less nervous about wanting to wear a mask? Connecticut Children’s pediatric psychology experts share ways to help reduce the stigma that may come if they choose to wear a mask. Learn More How to Prepare and Support Autistic Children this School YearChildren with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have a tough time adjusting to change – so they’ll need additional guidance and support to succeed in school. Connecticut Children’s autism specialists share ideas. Learn More 8 Tips for Your Soccer Player to Avoid InjurySoccer is a popular sport, but can also be tough on the body. How can your soccer champion avoid injuries as their body grows and develops? Turn to Connecticut Children’s sports medicine experts for advice. Learn More
