School return: reset sleep, screens and breakfast
Tiredness, irritability and poor concentration can hit children when holiday habits end overnight. Paediatricians at Quirónsalud hospitals in Valencia and Murcia say sleep, meals and screen use should be brought back gradually for the return to school. Their advice was issued on 8 September.
Sergio Negre, head of paediatrics at Quirónsalud Valencia, says regular bedtimes and wake-up times help children arrive at school rested. Getting enough sleep supports concentration, learning and emotional wellbeing; too little can leave children tired, irritable and struggling to pay attention.
Screens and exercise need their place
Tablets, computers and other digital devices should return to clear routines. Negre says the issue is not simply counting screen time, but making sure it does not take hours away from sleep, exercise, play or time with other children.
The doctors also urge a return to physical activity after the holidays. Outdoor play, cycling, sport or simply time to move can support children’s physical and emotional wellbeing.
Breakfast, eyesight and worries
Regular meals matter too, with the specialists warning that going to school without breakfast can affect a child’s energy and ability to concentrate. José Luis Alcaraz, head of paediatrics at Quirónsalud Murcia, says a balanced Mediterranean-style diet provides the energy needed for both mental and physical demands during the school day.
The start of term can also be a time to check eyesight. Undetected sight problems may make learning harder and can be mistaken for attention difficulties. Frequent headaches, squinting to see into the distance, or holding books and screens very close are among the warning signs named by Alcaraz.
Nerves, worries and excitement can all come with a new school year. If tiredness, apathy, irritability or concentration problems persist or seriously disrupt daily life, the specialists advise speaking to a paediatrician. Families should also check that the vaccination schedule is up to date.
Topics: Protests · Education · Health
Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com