Students, especially teens, believe going to bed early the night before the first day of school will adequately prepare them for the academic routine. In truth, it takes the body's biological clock at least one full week to adjust to this new sleep schedule after a summer of staying up late and sleeping in. Students who wait to change their habits may be tired and lethargic in class, according to UPMC sleep experts. Their tips can help get students' internal biological clocks ticking on school time.
Many kids try to avoid the first day of school and the days following by playing sick.
But, avoiding school with complaints of stomachaches or other physical ailments may be the sign of a deeper problem called school phobia or anxiety-based school refusal. Child and adolescent anxiety disorders researchers at the UPMC can help parents identify problems and share strategies to help their kids cope with school fears. Without even mentioning carrot or celery sticks, UPMC nutritionists can reveal many tasty ideas on how to pack a power lunch that is both nutritious and satisfying. They will mention, however, that no matter what's planned for lunch, students should be sure to have breakfast. Combined, these typical items could weigh up to 20 pounds.