{
  "id": 3873591,
  "title": "Back-to-School: Paediatric experts share tips for a stronger school year",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/28/back-to-school-paediatric-experts-share-tips-for-a-stronger-school",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-08-28T03:02:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Gulf News",
    "slug": "gulf-news",
    "url": "https://gulfnews.com/gn-focus/back-to-school-paediatric-experts-share-tips-for-a-stronger-school-year-1.500654644"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "As the school year approaches, paediatric experts offer advice to ensure a successful return to learning. Dr. Shruthi Punnapu recommends a gradual adjustment to earlier bedtimes and wake-up times over a few days, including weekends. Children aged 5-12 need 9-12 hours of sleep, while teenagers require 8-10 hours. Establishing a bedtime routine of preparing clothes, packing bags, brushing teeth, dimming lights, and reading can help signal the body that it's time to sleep. Avoid using melatonin without consulting a paediatrician. To make the process more engaging, create a family picture chart with steps and offer stars for completing the routine, which can be exchanged for a weekend activity.\n\nDr. Abeer Al Khalafawi emphasizes the importance of flu vaccination, stressing that it is different from a common cold and can have serious complications. Annual vaccination is crucial as the flu virus evolves each season. The vaccine is available in both injectable and nasal spray forms. While the injectable vaccine is suitable for children from 6 months of age, the nasal spray may be preferable for children who are anxious about needles. Parents should discuss the option with their paediatrician, taking into consideration any medical conditions that may preclude the nasal vaccine.\n\nDr. Siddharth Arora suggests that the untouched lunchbox may not necessarily indicate a fussy child. Factors such as portion size, container design, food texture, and short break durations can impact the appeal of the lunch. A balanced lunch should include a mix of protein, energy food, and colourful fruits or vegetables. Encourage children to participate in packing their lunch, allowing them to choose one healthy option among two provided choices. This approach can foster a sense of ownership and improve meal acceptance.\n\nLastly, Dr. Danny Alsalloum addresses the concern of a child who expresses reluctance about returning to school. While some anxiety is typical, persistent or severe worries should be addressed. Ask your child to identify the most challenging aspect of going back to school. To ease the transition, familiarize yourself with the school route, view campus photographs, and practice a brief, confident goodbye. Create opportunities for your child to share their thoughts and feelings about school using the Rose, Thorn, and Bud method: Rose for something positive, Thorn for something difficult, and Bud for something they look forward to. Encourage healthy habits by avoiding screens before bedtime, ensuring adequate rest, and managing stress through open communication.",
  "summary": "With more than eight experienced paediatricians and specialised services in paediatric nephrology, cardiology, neurology, urology, surgery, dentistry, neurosurgery and orthopaedics, families can access comprehensive care under one roof. Whatever the school year brings, our paediatric team is ready to support your child from the first bell to the final term. Mission 1: Reset the clock without a…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}