It’s February! Everyone knows what that means… School’s back!
After a long summer break, the start of the school year can be an exciting and daunting time for kids & parents alike. Providing the tools to start off the year can give everyone the confidence they need to allow for a smoother transition into the school year.
Here are some tips to help your child get ready for school.
• Pick the right bag – Carrying the wrong bag can put a lot of strain on your body. It should have wide, adjustable padded straps. Distribute the content of the bag evenly with the heavier items close to the spine and avoid carrying more than 10% of your child’s body weight. Wear the bag close to the body and it should not hang below the buttocks.
• Pick the right school shoes – make sure there is good arch support and the shoes are comfortable.
• Sit up straight and stretch often – Take a break from sitting every 20 minutes. Do simple exercises such as shoulder rolls and head tilts. This will reduce stiffness and muscle tightness from long periods of sitting.
• Stay hydrated – Drinking enough water helps with concentration, regulate body temperature and help keep the joints lubricated. As a general rule, aim for 1.5-2.5 litres of water a day.
• At Gippy Osteo, we treat people from all stages of life, including children. So if your child is experiencing any pain from postural issues or sports injuries, book in for a consult.