As the back-to-school season approaches, most parents focus on school supplies, new clothes, and organizing schedules. A visit to your teen’s primary care physician is not always at the top of every parent’s checklist. While it may seem like just another thing to do, these routine physical exams keep your teen safe, healthy, and ready to succeed at BVT and beyond.

February brings Valentine’s Day, feelings of love, and lots of hearts to mind. It’s also American Heart Month, when adults are encouraged to focus on cardiovascular health. But cardiac screenings are essential for everyone, regardless of age, even if you think you’re healthy.

As health and nutrition educators, we are passionate about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and well-balanced meals. Living in the Blackstone Valley, we are fortunate to have access to scenic hiking trails, local farms, and community gardens, which offer human connection and reliable, nutritious food sources.

Food is not just a necessity; it’s key to thriving. Nutritious food, packed with essential vitamins and nutrients, is like a high-performance fuel for your mind and body. Just as a machine needs fuel to run, a growing teen requires healthy, balanced meals and fresh water consumed throughout the day to perform at their peak and have plenty of energy to tackle their busy schedules. 

As your teen transitions into their back-to-school routines, they may eat and drink less frequently than they did during the summer. Like plants, they need ‘water’ to grow and thrive. Without it, they can feel droopy and tired, have trouble concentrating, and become dehydrated. 

As parents, we are always trying to find a balance between our responsibilities at work, at home, and with our families. This balancing act is no small feat. To be present for ourselves and our loved ones, we need to be healthy. This means staying focused, being patient, and setting realistic goals. These are the daily practices we hope our teens will mirror in their quest to be fit for life.