Top 5 Ways to Keep Your Kids Healthy (and Out of the ER) This School Year

Back-to-school time means more than just buying supplies and meeting new teachers—it’s also a season when kids are exposed to more germs, sports injuries, and accidents. At El Mirage ER, we’re here for life’s unexpected emergencies, but we’d rather see your family healthy and safe.

Here are the top five ways to keep your kids healthy and reduce their risk of emergency room visits this school year.

Schedule Back-to-School Checkups and Immunizations

Your child’s annual physical is the first line of defense against illness and injury. These visits make sure your child is physically ready for school activities and sports. They’re also the time to update immunizations, which help prevent contagious illnesses that can spread quickly in classrooms.

Why it matters: Preventing illness keeps kids in school and out of El Mirage urgent care.
Pack Nutritious Lunches and Snacks

Food is fuel—and the right fuel can help your child stay alert, strong, and resilient to germs. Aim for lunches that include fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid foods high in sugar that can cause energy crashes and affect concentration.

Safety tip: Use insulated lunch bags and cold packs to keep perishable items at safe temperatures.
Emphasize Handwashing and Germ Prevention

Schools can be breeding grounds for germs. Teach your child to wash their hands before eating, after recess, and after using the restroom. Remind them to avoid touching their face and to use a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing.

On-the-go tip: Pack a small hand sanitizer for times when soap and water aren’t available.
Keep Kids Safe During Sports and Activities

Sports injuries are a common reason for pediatric ER visits in El Mirage. If your child plays sports, make sure they have the proper safety gear and that it fits correctly. Encourage warm-ups before activity and stretching afterward to prevent injuries.

Bonus tip: For contact sports, ensure mouthguards and helmets meet safety standards.
Maintain Healthy Sleep and Stress Levels

Tired or stressed kids are more prone to illness and injury. Help your child stick to a regular sleep schedule and make time for rest and play between homework and extracurricular activities.

Quick fix: Limit late-night screen time and encourage relaxing bedtime routines like reading or listening to calm music.

Final Word

By taking a few proactive steps now, you can help your child stay healthy, safe, and ready to learn all year long. And remember—if accidents or illnesses do happen, El Mirage ER is open 24/7 with little to no wait, so your child can get the care they need right away.