Congratulations! You’ve made it through another summer in Arizona. In fact, summer 2013 was the hottest in phoenix since U.S. record-keeping began in 1895, according to AZCentral.com. And now, finally, as Phoenix temperatures began to become bearable again, and residents dare to venture outdoors once again, our Phoenix doctors wanted to remind our patients how to keep the family safe and healthy this Fall season.
Parents – Get Involved
Fall means school and sports, which also means that as a parent it is your responsibility to be involved as much and as often as you can. When parents, coaches and teachers work together, grades, attitudes, and even health improves. So go to those parent-teacher meetings, volunteer in your child’s class, get to know the football coach.
According to the Department of Education, research shows that students whose parents are involved in their education are more likely to:
- Adapt well to school
- Attend school more regularly
- Complete homework more consistently
- Earn higher grades and test scores
- Graduate and go on to college
- Have better social skills
- Show improved behavior
- Have better relationships with their parents
- Have higher self-esteem
Additionally, linking community activities to the classroom
- Improves school-related behaviors
- Positively impacts academic achievement
- Reduces school suspension rates
Flu Prevention
Get a flu shot! Here at Family Practice Specialists, we advise parents and families on the importance of getting a flu shot, so if you do have questions, don’t hesitate to ask at your next appointment. The flu can knock days out of your workweek and set the kids behind in school.
In addition getting the flu vaccine, it’s important to wash your hands regularly. Steer clear of those who might have the flu, and if you do get sick or the kids have a temperature, stay home! The last thing our Phoenix doctors want is a flu outbreak because parents and kids refused to stay home and recover.
Play Outdoors
While it’s still over 90 during the day, the mornings can be a chilly 60-degrees, so remember to get your kids in a jacket and long pants before school. In addition to the chilly mornings, mosquitos and ants are out in full force due to our wet and hot summer, so be prepared with bug spray or Benadryl in case of bug bites.
Work Outdoors
This is also the time of year that Phoenix doctors see many back and related injuries from heavy yard work. From laying rye grass to mowing that hard-to-mow winter grass, to trimming trees and planting Fall flowers, everything from the knees to elbows and back can ache and become overworked this time of year. While it might be relaxing and provide a sense of accomplishment to get that Fall lawn looking beautiful, take it easy. Our Phoenix doctors will tell you that it all doesn’t have to be done in one weekend. Start preparing your yard for winter seed early, and take your time with the tree trimming and planting.
Indoors
It’s true that some families in Phoenix never use their heaters. I’m not one of those families. While Phoenix doctors aren’t home inspectors, we do suggest giving that heater a quick test run every year before you switch it on to full blast. You’ll not only want to ensure it works properly, but it’s not emitting any smells.
And while there aren’t many homes left with fireplaces in Phoenix, if you choose to use on please be smart about fire safety. The last thing a Phoenix doctor or pediatrician wants to see is a child come in with a burn from touching the fireplace screen.
Family Practice Specialists
There is nothing quite like Fall, Winter and Spring here in Phoenix. People come from all over the nation to enjoy our beautiful weather this time of year. It’s why we all live here, and why we love living here. Take heed to the tips above provided by our Phoenix doctors, get your flu vaccine, and don’t hesitate to call with any health questions you might have related to Fall, school, sports, and everything in between. We’re here to help.