NEWS FROM THE HEALTH OFFICE WITH

NURSE KATE

Dear TES Families

I have been asked recently about drinks and health, and noticed that we have some students that are enjoying a wide variety of beverages - some that support their health, and some that may not be the healthiest choices. It’s pretty well known that I frequently recommend that kids drink water, and sometimes peppermint tea for many of the reasons that kids come to the Health Office. Good hydration really can help a wide variety of the frequent problems we see at school!  

Let’s start with why what we drink is important:

1. Stronger Bones: Drinking milk and fortified juices can help you build strong, healthy bones.

2. Hydration: Water is the best way to stay hydrated. It helps your body function at its best, so remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

3. Focus and Concentration: Healthy drinks, like water, can help you concentrate and do better in school.

4. Energy: Sugary drinks, like soda or energy drinks, may give you a quick energy boost, but it's usually followed by a crash. Healthier choices provide sustained energy. Be careful when choosing juice! While 100% fruit juice can be a better option than some, the sugar content can still add up, and it’s important to drink juices in moderation.

Drinks for optimal learning at school:

1. Water: Water is your best friend. It keeps you hydrated, helps your body work properly, and is calorie-free.

2. Milk: Milk is a fantastic source of calcium and protein. It's great for building strong bones and teeth.

What can parents do?

• Encourage your children to carry a clean reusable water bottle to school.
• Make water and milk easily accessible at home.
• Talk with children about labels, marketing, and work with them to be aware of the sugar and caffeine content in drinks.

Other Updates in the Health Office:

• The fall has arrived in the TES Health Office! We had a successful flu vaccine clinic on 10/5 for both students and staff.  
• As the seasons change, please continue to remember water bottles, seasonally appropriate clothing and outerwear, as well as an extra set of clothing. 
• We continue to see the fall colds, the occasional case of COVID, and the occasional case of Strep. That being said, our attendance data for sick children continues to be very stable at this time. Thanks for your help there!
• Continue to check for ticks daily when getting ready for bathing or for bed in the evening! We have been finding them here and there!  

As always, please don’t hesitate to contact me via phone or email if I can answer questions. Be well and stay hydrated!

Nurse Kate