Prioritizing Student Health with Expert Tips

As the new school year approaches, ensuring the health and safety of students takes center stage. Fraser Health is here to equip students, parents, and staff with vital public health knowledge for a thriving 2025-26 school year.

Your Ultimate Back-to-School Toolkit

Fraser Health offers a wealth of resources for families, including the must-read Healthy Back-to-School Guide. Packed with insights, this guide covers everything from maintaining open communication with your kids to effectively managing anxiety, crafting nutritious meals, staying active, supporting mental health, and prioritizing sleep. Plus, it provides practical tips for safe travels to and from school and strategies to combat bullying.

Explore School Health Resources Online

Check out School Health, your go-to online resource for FAQs about mental wellness, support options for children, and information on a variety of topics including medical conditions and sexual health education.

Focus on Children and Youth Health

Dive into Children and Youth Health resources, which cover critical areas such as immunizations, physical activity, injury prevention, and more. Equip your family with knowledge on maintaining a healthy diet and sleep schedules, as well as guidance on handling substance use and preparing for surgeries.

Important Immunization Updates!

Fraser Health will be offering immunizations to students in Grades 6 to 9. Expect important consent forms to be sent home in September. If your Grade 7 to 10 child missed their immunization last year, don’t worry! They can catch up at the upcoming immunization clinics.

Measles Awareness Alert!

This year, Fraser Health is emphasizing the importance of protecting against measles, a preventable disease that’s on the rise globally. Ensure you and your children, particularly those born in 1970 or later, have received at least two doses of the measles vaccine. These vaccinations are available at most pharmacies and public health units.

Stay Vigilant: Know the Symptoms!

Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that spreads from the face downwards. If you suspect measles, please keep your child at home and inform your healthcare provider before visiting, wear a mask, and avoid public transport.

Dental Health is Crucial!

Every three years, a province-wide dental survey takes place to track early childhood dental health trends. The results of the 2022-23 survey are available at fraserhealth.ca/dentalhealth. Regular dental checkups are essential—reach out to the BC Dental Association to find accepting new dentists in your area.

Financial Dental Assistance Available!

If you’re from a low-income family lacking extended health coverage, there are programs available for affordable dental care. Contact your local public health unit for information on community resources.

Vision Matters!

Annual eye exams with an optometrist are crucial for your child’s academic success. While public health does not provide vision screenings in schools, parents are encouraged to schedule yearly eye exams. Luckily, basic eye exams are free for children under 18, and financial aid for prescription glasses may be available through the Healthy Kids Program.

The Importance of Hearing Health!

Recognizing the role of good hearing in language development and emotional growth is critical. Public health audiologists are available to provide hearing services for children from birth to 19 years, ensuring they receive the care they need.

Get Ready for a Fantastic School Year!

Equipped with these health and safety tips, your child can embark on a successful school year filled with learning and growth. For more information and resources, visit fraserhealth.ca/ChildHealthScreenings.