Back to School 

School is back in full swing, and parents are taking a sigh of relief that their school-age kids are back into their usual routines. But the return to school also means an increased risk of respiratory illness. This can be a more serious concern for children with complex health conditions or other health care needs. The best way to keep children healthy is to continue using the tools and recommendations we learned during the pandemic:  

• Remind your kids to wash their hands often, especially before lunch or snacks during the school day  
• Cover coughs or sneezes 
• Stay home if they have a cold or are not feeling well  
• Make sure your child is up-to-date with their vaccinations
• Encourage school staff, especially those who work closely with your child, to be vaccinated and stay home (or wear a mask) if they are experiencing symptoms  

Families should also talk with the school nurse or health office to ensure they are aware of your child’s health and medical conditions. Ask to be alerted when respiratory illnesses rise in the school community. There may be times this winter when virtual learning might be a good alternative for your child, even for a few days.  

ReSet:  Keeping Kids with Complex Needs Healthy in School 

Family Voices of Wisconsin is a member of ReSET (reset4kids.org) a collaborative started in 2021 that focuses on the safe, in-person return to school for children with complex health needs. ReSET has resources and tools for families to share with their child’s school team. Their newly updated ReSET toolkit, has recommendations to guide your communication with school. The Family Questions and Answers, has valuable information to prepare for these conversations. The toolkit also has tips to keep children in school when other types of respiratory illnesses like influenza, RSV and COVID, are circulating. This toolkit, available in English and Spanish, has information that applies to all children and youth with disabilities and special health care needs, and those who support them.