Preparing for school is about more than books and uniforms — it's about keeping your child safe and healthy all year long.
To help you cover all the essentials, we've highlighted some common health concerns and effective treatments for school-aged children.
For personalised support, you can book a health check online or visit us in store to chat with our friendly team. We're here to help you start the school year with confidence!
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Keeping Medications Safe and Up-to-Date
Every child has unique medication needs, and it's essential to ensure their medications are current and safely stored - whether in their bag or with their teacher, educator, or carer at school or daycare.
If your child has severe allergies or asthma, make sure their action plan is up-to-date. This includes completing any necessary paperwork and discussing triggers and medication requirements with their teachers.
For additional support, consider booking an asthma check at your local Ramsay Pharmacy. We're here to help you stay prepared and keep your child safe.
Head Lice Treatment Made Simple
Head lice (nits) are a common issue when kids spend time in close contact, easily spreading from one child to another.
To tackle head lice effectively, you can choose between medicated treatments or the wet combing method to remove and eliminate them. Finding the right approach for your child and family is key — and having treatment ready to go can save you time and stress when you need it most.
For expert advice, speak with your Ramsay Pharmacist. We're here to help you find the best solution.
Treating Threadworms
Threadworms, often called "worms," are a common condition among school-aged children. They spread easily and can cause itching and discomfort around the anus.
Your Ramsay Pharmacist can recommend effective treatments, and practicing good hygiene is essential to stop the spread. Encourage frequent handwashing and thorough cleaning habits.
Once treatment begins, wash bed sheets, towels, clothing, and any surfaces that may have come into contact with eggs. Keeping your child’s fingernails clean and trimmed can also help prevent re-infection.
Let us help you manage and prevent threadworms with ease.
Teaching Your Child to Be SunSmart
Australia has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world, making it essential to instil SunSmart habits in children from an early age.
For optimal protection, follow the Cancer Council’s five SunSmart steps:
- Slip on protective clothing - cover as much skin as possible
- Slop on SPF 30+ (or higher) broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen - apply generously to clean, dry skin at least 20 minutes before heading outdoors
- Slap on a hat - a wide-brimmed, bucket, or legionnaire style to shield the face, neck, and ears
- Seek shade - stay out of direct sunlight whenever possible
- Slide on sunglasses - help protect eyes by reducing UV radiation by up to 98%
Need advice? Speak to your Ramsay Pharmacy team to find the best sun protection options for your child. Let’s work together to keep your family safe in the sun!
Packing Hand Sanitiser
When soap and water aren’t readily available, a small bottle of hand sanitiser in your child’s bag can be a quick and effective way to keep their hands clean - especially before meals.
Staying up to date with Vaccinations
Vaccinations are a vital way to protect your child from various diseases. Ensure their vaccination schedule is up-to-date by speaking with your GP about any required immunisations.
For older children, your Ramsay Pharmacist can assist with flu vaccinations in many states - check with your local pharmacy for availability. Prioritising vaccinations helps keep your family and community healthy.
Managing Anxiety
Feeling nervous or scared about changes, like starting a new school year, is normal - but for some children, these feelings can become overwhelming.
To help your child feel secure, visit their new school together and meet the teachers before the term starts. Establishing a consistent drop-off and pick-up routine can also provide reassurance. Take things slowly during the first few days and, for more tips, reach out to the team at Ramsay Psychology.
Eating Healthy
Good nutrition is vital for your child’s growth, health, immunity, and development.
For school lunches, aim for fresh, simple options that are easy to open and eat. If food often comes back uneaten, don’t worry - many children get distracted during lunch, which is common.
If you’re concerned about your child’s eating habits, speak with your Ramsay Pharmacist. We’re here to help!
The Importance of a Good Night’s Sleep
Sleep is essential for children’s growth, health, and mental wellbeing. Lack of sleep can lead to irritability, restlessness, hyperactivity, and even issues like poor school performance, weight gain, and mental health challenges.
The Queensland Government’s Children’s Health Hospital and Health Service recommends the following sleep durations:
- Infants (4–12 months): 12–16 hours (including naps)
- Toddlers (1–2 years): 11–14 hours (including naps)
- Preschoolers (3–5 years): 10–13 hours (including naps)
- Grade-schoolers (6–12 years): 9–11 hours
- Teens (13–18 years): 8–10 hours
If you’re concerned about your child’s sleep habits, speak with your GP or visit your Ramsay Pharmacist for advice. Let us help you support your child’s wellbeing!
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