Back to school

A healthy child is a child ready to learn. Here is some information to help make this school year safe and successful for your children.

Immunizations

Whether your child is a toddler or a teenager, immunization is the best defense against a variety of diseases. Immunizations are especially important in a school setting where diseases can spread quickly.

WIC

WIC (the Women, Infants and Children program) is healthy food and a lot more. If your child is eligible for free or reduced school lunch, someone in your family may be eligible for WIC. WIC is a nutrition program for pregnant women, new and breastfeeding moms and children under five. It provides monthly checks for healthy food, health screenings and referrals, nutrition education, and breastfeeding support.

Nutrition & physical activity

Healthy students are better learners. Eating breakfast, getting enough healthy foods, and being physically active are habits that help students perform well, behave better, and have improved attendance. Learn more about physical activity (see below) and healthy eating. Get ideas for packing a healthy lunch. If you have concerns about your child’s weight, learn more about overweight & obesity.

What Kind of Physical Activity Should I do?

Find something that you like to do, such as gardening, biking, walking, canoeing, swimming, hiking, running or dancing.
Find places to walk, bike, canoe and kayak in Washington.
To stay healthy, it is important to be physically active at least 30 minutes, 5 times a week. This can include several short bouts of activity in a day.
If your goal is to lose weight, a combination of a healthy diet and moderate to vigorous activity 60 minutes a day, five times a week, will help you be successful.
Be active with a friend or as a family will help make it fun.
Be consistent and set a schedule.
If you have been inactive, always consult your healthcare provider before starting a physical activity program.