Health Office Happenings
March 2026
Spring is almost upon us - the weather will be getting warmer, the plants will bloom, and the pollen counts will rise! If your student is one of the many people who experience seasonal allergies, here are a few tips and tricks that can help manage their symptoms:
- Keep an eye on local pollen counts. Many weather apps will have this information.
- Avoid going outside on windy, gusty days.
- If outside, be sure to wash off your face and wash your hands immediately after coming inside. This can help to remove any pollen residue that may be on the skin.
- Manage seasonal allergies by taking over-the-counter medications (i.e. Zyrtec, Claritin) at home.
- Most allergy medications work best when used consistently throughout allergy season.
- Be sure to consult your student’s pediatrician before beginning any medication.
The school nurse does not supply over-the-counter allergy medications. Any medication that needs to be administered in school requires a licensed prescriber’s order and a medication supply brought from home/pharmacy. Because most allergy medications will last 12 or 24 hours, the expectation is that these should be administered at home.
Please make every effort to help your student manage their seasonal allergies at home, so that they are able to fully access their learning. If your student appears to have new-onset seasonal allergies, make an appointment with their pediatrician to discuss the best ways to manage their symptoms.
Additional resources:
Did you know? People born with Down syndrome have an extra copy of the 21st chromosome! Each year on March 21, we recognize our amazing students and community members who have Down syndrome. These individuals are valued and appreciated members of our schools and community at large.
Want to join in raising awareness for Down syndrome on March 21? Wear a pair of fun socks! You can wear brightly colored or mismatched socks; anything that will get noticed and can help start a positive conversation about Down syndrome.
Learn more about Down syndrome here.
March is National Nutrition Month. It’s a great time to reset to incorporate better eating habits. Healthy eating can look different in every family! Some smart eating habits include:
- Family meals: Keep meal time calm, friendly and intentional - sit at the table as a family to eat together and talk about your day!
- Add variety: Have healthy options so your student can participate in choosing what they want to eat. Incorporate fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats.
- Be a role model: Endorse food positivity, and avoid negative talk surrounding food.
- Avoid the battles: Don't bribe or force your student to eat something. Instead, try presenting them with a limited amount of healthy choices, so that they feel empowered in their ability to make decisions.
- Involve your students! Plan balanced meals as a family. Bring your student with you when you shop for groceries. Involve them, when safe, in preparing and cooking meals.
Mealtime habits you create now can lead to a lifetime of healthier choices and better habits.
Source: www.kidshealth.org
