Doctor’s note: The importance of back-to-school physicals

As summer break comes to an end and the school year begins, focus changes from camps, ball games, vacations, and other activities to the demands of school. In addition to ensuring our children have the appropriate school supplies and clothing for the upcoming year, this is a good time to assess if they are ready for the other challenges. If your child hasn’t had an … Continue reading Doctor’s note: The importance of back-to-school physicals

{Guest blog} Get ready for back to school

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas partners with New Directions to make sure our members and employees have access to the behavioral health resources they need. Getting a new school year off to a good start can influence your child’s attitude, confidence and performance both socially and academically. After the ups and downs of remote learning over the past school year, it might take … Continue reading {Guest blog} Get ready for back to school

{Guest post} Somehow, someway, school is starting

The back-to-school shopping, the bustling hallways after a long summer away from friends, the first day icebreaker games – it’s all going to look A LOT different this year, thanks to coronavirus (COVID-19). Depending on the infection rates in your community, schools may not physically reopen at all. Whether it’s staggered school hours, safely distanced desks or strictly online learning, there’s a lot of uncertainty … Continue reading {Guest post} Somehow, someway, school is starting

Back to school advice from former school nurses

The days of summer vacation are winding down and you’re undoubtedly in back to school mode to make sure your child is ready for the upcoming year. Part of the preparation probably includes paperwork from the school nurse. Before you groan at the thought of filling out another form, consider the role a school nurse plays in the health and happiness of your child. BCBSKS … Continue reading Back to school advice from former school nurses

Easy back-to-school-breakfasts

Three quick back-to-school breakfasts

The start of the school year means the whole family will be back to a tight schedule in the morning. Start the day off right with these quick recipes. They have five ingredients or less, which means you’ll spend less time preparing breakfast and will have more time to get everyone out the door! Continue reading “Three quick back-to-school breakfasts”

Back-to-school vaccinations

It’s the time of year again where kids are covered in bug bites and the excitement of Fourth of July fireworks has worn off. The summer sun is sweltering, the air conditioning is always running, and an afternoon at the pool is all you can do to cool off. You can hear school bells in the distance which means it’s almost time to head back to school. Continue reading “Back-to-school vaccinations”

Back-to-School Checklist: Survival Guide

With many children returning to school this week or having already started within the past few days, it can be overwhelming to adjust back into the busy school routine. Even if you’re already in the throes of a new school year, here are some handy reminders to get the year off to a great start.
Continue reading “Back-to-School Checklist: Survival Guide”

healthy lunch sandwich carrots berries nuts lunch box

Four tips for packing healthy lunches & snacks

School is back in session! That means it’s time to get back into the routine of building those lunchbox meals and having snacks at the ready. This may seem daunting in your household, especially if you have a picky eater, but don’t fret. Below are four of our favorite tips to help you get back into your routine:

1. The Fab 5 

The National School Lunch Program recommends five food groups be served to create a balanced and nutritious meal: fruits, vegetables, low or nonfat dairy, Continue reading “Four tips for packing healthy lunches & snacks”