Updated Content 2/4/2026
Back-to-school time has arrived, and many people feel a little anxious about returning to school or about their children going back. With viruses like the flu, COVID-19, and others, it’s important to prioritize your health during this time of year.
It’s not possible to totally protect yourself from all bacteria and germs, but there are many things you can do to help you and your children stay healthy during back-to-school time.
Read on as Boardman Training Center (BTC) shares our top tips for how to stay healthy this school year!
Practice Good Hygiene
One essential aspect of staying healthy now and throughout the year is practicing good hygiene. The CDC recommends washing your hands often, especially after being around a sick person, after using the bathroom, and before eating. Using soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds is the most effective way to wash your hands.
It’s best to avoid touching your nose, mouth, and eyes, especially if you’ve been around someone who’s sick or if you haven’t washed your hands. Sneezing into your elbow and covering your mouth when you cough are other ways to prevent the spread of germs.
If you or your children are not feeling well, don’t go to school or work, as you may spread the illness to others. Stay home and get some rest so you can feel better faster.
Eat Nutritious Foods
Consuming foods with high nutritional value is critical to helping your immune system stay strong and your body stay healthy. The foods you eat provide your body with many of the vitamins and minerals it needs to function.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, your immune system needs many minerals and vitamins to operate, including iron, folate, selenium, zinc, and vitamins A, C, D, and E. They work to support your immune system, so it performs properly and helps fight off, prevent, and shorten infections.
Incorporating a wide variety of whole foods into your diet is a simple and effective way to support long-term health. Many everyday foods are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that help support overall health and immune function. Fruits like cantaloupe and strawberries provide key vitamins and antioxidants, while vegetables such as spinach, kale, carrots, and sweet potatoes offer nutrients that support vision, skin health, and the body’s natural defenses.
Healthy fats and proteins found in avocado, almonds, sunflower seeds, salmon, and turkey play an important role in nutrient absorption and muscle and tissue repair. Plant-based options like beans and chickpeas add fiber, iron, and protein, helping keep energy levels steady.
One simple way to consume these healthy foods is to make a smoothie. Pick your favorite fruits, such as cantaloupe, strawberries, and blueberries, and then add some kale and spinach. Pour in water and blend until it’s creamy. Now you can enjoy a delicious, nutritious smoothie!
Eating less sugar and processed foods can also help you stay healthy, as they fill you up but do not provide your body with the nutrition it needs. Eating out less and preparing more of your meals at home is a great way to accomplish this goal. When you cook more at home, you can make more nutritious foods and work to keep your body healthy.
Create Healthy Habits
Building healthy habits and practicing them daily can make a big difference in your family’s health during the back-to-school season. One of the most important habits is staying hydrated by drinking enough water. Water plays a vital role in keeping your body functioning properly, and since the body is made up of a large portion of water, proper hydration is essential for overall health.
Staying active and exercising regularly is an important habit that helps you feel your best. According to the Mayo Clinic, healthy adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week. Moderate exercises include activities like brisk walking, biking, and swimming, while more vigorous options include running, playing basketball, and jumping rope.
Getting enough sleep each night is another key factor in staying healthy. Sleep needs vary by age. According to the Mayo Clinic, children ages 6 to 12 should get between 9 and 12 hours of sleep each night, while adults need at least 7 hours per night to support overall health and well-being.
Reducing stress also supports your overall health, as too much stress can take a toll on both your body and mind. Setting aside time to relax, practicing meditation or mindfulness, and developing healthy coping strategies can all help manage stress more effectively.
BTC is Here For You
We hope these tips help you and your family stay healthy and energized throughout the back-to-school season and well beyond. By building simple, everyday habits, you can support overall wellness year-round.
At Boardman Training Center, we’re here for you! Supporting your well-being while guiding you toward your educational and career goals is our top priority. If you’re interested in learning more about BTC’s hands-on training and career-focused programs, request information today and take the next step toward your future.