How to Have Healthy Start to New School Year in NYC
3 Wellness Appointments to Help Kids Get Ready to Learn
By Dr. Greg Carnevale
Chief Medical Officer, UnitedHealthcare of New York
Bronx Voice
September 5, 2025
NEW YORK - While many families may be trying to squeeze in the last of summer activities, gather supplies and begin school year routines, it’s also a great time to check in on children’s mental and physical well-being.
A child’s health can influence their growth, development and academic performance. To help set children and teens up for success this school year, it’s important to stay up to date with wellness appointments, including annual physicals, dental checkups, comprehensive eye exams and mental health assessments.
Here are a few things parents can consider to help support their children’s well-being:
It’s ok to talk about mental health
Mental health challenges are on the rise among young people, driven by factors like academic pressures, relationships, social media, and broader social and economic inequalities. Age, race, and gender also shape how these issues manifest and affect young people.
While it's beneficial for parents to discuss health matters with their children throughout the year, an opportune time arises during the annual back-to-school exam, also known as a well-child visit. This scheduled check-up can serve as a timely platform for addressing various health concerns, including mental health, ensuring that kids are supported holistically as they prepare to return to school.
Data from UnitedHealthcare found that 60% of college students reported encountering behavioral or mental health concerns in the past year. So, even as children grow older and head off to college, be sure to check in on them emotionally, encourage open conversations, and remind your student that help is available.
No matter the age, checking in on your child’s mental health before the school year begins and throughout can help lay the foundation for a more successful and balanced year ahead.
Brush up on dental care for healthy smiles
Cavities are preventable, yet they are the most common chronic disease among children and teens in the U.S. If left untreated, cavities can cause pain that leads to problems learning and speaking, as well as contribute to other long-term health issues. Cavities can also make eating uncomfortable and can affect nutrition and development.
Children, teens and adults should visit a dentist every six months for routine preventive dental care. Dental plans usually cover preventive care, which means you may pay $0 out of pocket for certain covered preventive services if you go to a network provider.
It’s important to know that about 1 in 3 people in the United States have a fear of dental treatment. If you believe your child may experience dental fear or anxiety, speak with their dentist or primary care doctor for support.
Comprehensive eye exams can help kids see better
More than 1 in 3 school-age kids in the U.S. are nearsighted. Also known as myopia, nearsightedness can cause issues seeing things in the distance, like the front of the classroom, which may contribute to problems learning.
Possible signs of vision issues in kids include frequent eye rubbing or blinking, headaches, or struggling to remember what they have read.
It’s recommended kids get annual comprehensive eye exams throughout their school years. Yet, only 44.2% of New York children have recently seen an eye doctor. School-based vision screenings are valuable, but they’re not a replacement for comprehensive eye exams that can detect more complex issues.
Vision plans also usually cover preventive care, including comprehensive eye exams. A vision plan may also provide an allowance to purchase glasses or contacts.
Consider talking with your children’s doctor and scheduling any care visits before school starts. Check with your health plan to see what benefits are available to your family. For more information, visit uhc.com.
Starting a new school year in NYC can be both exciting and overwhelming, but with a little planning, you can set yourself up for a healthy and successful year. Here are some tips to help you have a healthy start to the new school year:
1. Establish a Routine Early
Sleep Schedule: Aim for at least 8-10 hours of sleep per night (depending on your age). Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day helps your body adjust to the school year rhythm.
Morning Routine: Having a consistent morning routine that includes time for a healthy breakfast, stretching, or a short walk can set a positive tone for the day.
2. Healthy Eating
Fuel Your Body Right: NYC offers an abundance of food options, but try to stick to nutritious meals. Incorporate protein, fruits, and whole grains into your meals.
Pack Healthy Snacks and Lunches: Instead of relying on fast food or vending machine snacks, pack something nutritious. Whole-grain sandwiches, fruit, nuts, and yogurt are great choices.
Stay Hydrated: Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it throughout the day to stay hydrated.
3. Plan Your Commute Wisely
Walk or Bike: If possible, walking or biking to school is an excellent way to get exercise and clear your mind before the day begins. NYC’s urban environment can make walking a very viable option.
Public Transportation Prep: If you rely on the subway or buses, make sure to leave early to avoid rushing, and take some time to relax and enjoy the ride.
4. Stay Active
Physical Activity: Whether it's gym class, sports, or just walking around your neighborhood, staying physically active is key to maintaining both physical and mental health.
Explore Local Parks: NYC has beautiful parks like Central Park, Prospect Park, and Riverside Park. After school, you can unwind, walk, or bike in these green spaces.
5. Manage Stress
Organize Your School Work: Start the year with a planner or digital calendar to keep track of assignments, tests, and activities. Staying organized helps you stay ahead of deadlines and reduces stress.
Mindfulness or Meditation: Taking a few minutes to meditate or practice deep breathing can help calm your mind and reduce stress.
Take Breaks: Don't overwhelm yourself with work. Short breaks to reset can increase productivity and focus.
6. Social Connection
Make Time for Friends: NYC schools are full of diverse and interesting people. Build connections with classmates or find new friends who share your interests.
Join Clubs or Activities: Whether it's a sports team, music group, or volunteer work, joining extracurricular activities can be a great way to make new friends and balance schoolwork with fun.
7. Digital Detox
Set Screen Limits: Set boundaries around screen time, especially before bedtime. Excessive screen time can interfere with your sleep quality and cause unnecessary stress.
Engage in Offline Hobbies: Whether it's reading, drawing, playing a sport, or cooking, doing things away from screens can give you balance and a creative outlet.
8. Take Care of Mental Health
Talk About Your Feelings: It's normal to feel anxious or stressed about the new school year. Talk to a counselor, teacher, or trusted friend about how you're feeling.
Set Realistic Goals: Avoid putting too much pressure on yourself. Set achievable academic and personal goals for the year.
9. Get Involved in Your Community
Explore NYC: Take time to explore the city's neighborhoods, culture, and activities. This will make your year more exciting and help you feel more connected to the city.
Volunteer: Volunteering with local organizations or events can give you a sense of purpose and community.
10. Embrace the Urban Environment
Learn to Navigate the City: The hustle and bustle of NYC can be overwhelming at first, but over time, you'll get more comfortable with using the subway, navigating the streets, and getting to where you need to go.
Stay Safe: Always stay aware of your surroundings, especially if you’re commuting alone. Have emergency contacts saved in your phone and make sure your parents or guardians know your schedule.
By focusing on these areas, you can set yourself up for a balanced and positive start to the school year, both physically and mentally, while navigating the exciting urban environment of NYC!
Do any of these stand out to you as something you'd like to try first? Or maybe something you already do that helps you start the year strong?
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