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As the new school year approaches, many parents find themselves juggling long to-do lists, from buying uniforms and stationery to ensuring their child’s health is ready for a fresh start. At Sunway Medical Centre Velocity (SMCV), we believe good health is the foundation for every child’s success, in and out of the classroom.

Here are practical tips from our Consultant Paediatrician, Dr Chew Bee Bee to help your child stay healthy, focused, and confident throughout the school year.

1. Schedule a Well-Child Check-up

A well-child visit is one of the best investments you can make in your child’s health. These regular check-ups allow doctors to track growth, monitor developmental milestones, and detect any potential health concerns early. During these visits, paediatricians also review your child’s hearing, vision, and dental health, while providing tailored guidance on nutrition, sleep, and learning readiness.

Parents often find these appointments reassuring, they help you stay informed about your child’s overall wellbeing and address small issues before they become bigger ones. It’s especially helpful to schedule a check-up before the school year begins, so your child starts term time healthy and confident.

2. Keep Vaccinations Up to Date

When children return to classrooms, playgrounds, and crowded buses, germs tend to spread quickly. Vaccinations remain one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your child from preventable illnesses such as influenza, chickenpox, or measles.

Before school starts, review your child’s vaccination record with your doctor to ensure it’s complete. Some children may also benefit from additional vaccines such as the flu or HPV shot, depending on their age and health needs. Staying up to date not only protects your child but also helps keep classmates and family members safe.

3. Prioritise Balanced Nutrition

Children learn better when they’re well-nourished. A balanced diet supports focus, energy, and healthy growth throughout the day. Start mornings with a nutritious breakfast, even something simple like eggs, fruit, and wholegrain bread helps improve concentration. Encourage more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains at meals while cutting down on sugary snacks and sweet drinks.

Packing small, healthy snacks such as fruit slices, nuts, or yogurt can keep their energy stable between classes. And if your child struggles with appetite, food allergies, or frequent stomach discomfort, a consultation with a Paediatric Dietitian or Gastroenterologist can help you personalise a meal plan that supports both comfort and nutrition.

4. Make Sleep a Priority

Good sleep is essential for growing minds. It improves focus, memory, and emotional regulation, yet many school-aged children don’t get enough rest. Try to maintain a consistent bedtime routine, even during weekends, and reduce screen time at least an hour before sleep. Keep the bedroom dark, cool, and quiet to promote deeper rest.

Most children between 6 to 12 years old need about eight to ten hours of sleep each night. If your child frequently snores, wakes up tired, or seems unusually drowsy during the day, it may be worth discussing with an Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist or Sleep Specialist to rule out conditions such as sleep apnoea or nasal obstruction that could be affecting rest quality.

5. Support Emotional Wellbeing

Starting a new school year can bring mixed emotions, excitement, nervousness, or even stress. Encourage open communication so your child feels safe to talk about worries related to friends, teachers, or studies. Parents can help by maintaining a calm, supportive routine and showing that it’s okay to ask for help.

Watch for subtle signs of stress, such as mood swings, changes in appetite, or sleep disturbances. If these persist, seeking advice from a Paediatrician or Child Psychologist can provide early support. Emotional wellbeing is just as important as physical health for helping your child thrive academically and socially.

6. Address Bullying Early

Bullying can affect a child’s self-esteem and school enjoyment. Teach your child to recognise when behaviour crosses the line and to respond calmly, by saying “stop,” walking away, and telling a trusted teacher or adult immediately. Reinforce that speaking up is a sign of courage, not weakness.

It’s also helpful to maintain open communication with teachers and school counsellors. Working together can ensure any issues are addressed early, protecting your child’s emotional and social confidence.

7. Model Healthy Habits as a Family

Children often mirror what they see at home. When parents prioritise exercise, balanced meals, and adequate rest, kids naturally follow. Try to make health a family activity, walk after dinner, prepare healthy lunches together, or spend time outdoors on weekends. These shared habits strengthen family bonds while reinforcing positive routines.

Healthy habits are built through consistency, not perfection. The small choices your family makes each day, like eating one more vegetable or turning screens off an hour earlier, can create a lasting impact on your child’s wellbeing.

A Healthy Start for a Confident Year Ahead

Preparing for a new school year goes beyond buying books and uniforms, it’s about laying the foundation for a healthy, happy learner. Regular check-ups, good nutrition, quality sleep, and emotional support help your child feel confident and ready to take on the year ahead.

If you have concerns about your child’s health or development, speak with our Consultant Paediatrician, Dr Chew Bee Bee, at Sunway Medical Centre Velocity. Together, we’ll help your child start school strong and stay healthy throughout the year.

A Healthy Start for a Successful Year

Preparing for school is about more than supplies, it’s about building a foundation of health and resilience.

Schedule your child’s well-child examination or vaccination update at the Children’s Health Centre, Sunway Medical Centre Velocity, and help them start the school year with confidence and good health.