By Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services
Lincoln, NE — As students prepare to head back to classrooms this August, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recognizes the critical role physical, mental and emotional well-being play in academic success.
“The transition from summer break to the school year is both exciting and overwhelming. It is a time of excitement, fresh beginnings, and possibilities. DHHS is proud to support Nebraska families through this new chapter,” said DHHS Director of Children and Family Services, Dr. Alyssa Bish. “Across all our divisions, we are united in our commitment to keeping Nebraskans safe, healthy, and ready to learn, offering resources and services that meet people where they are and help every student thrive.”
Start of the new school year checklist for success:
- Schedule yearly physicals and required immunizations. Communicate with your teacher or school nurse about necessary medications.
- Prioritize healthy sleep schedules, physical activity, nutritious meals, and hydration.
- Set a consistent routine and reduce screen time to help budget time for homework, socializing, family, hobbies, exercise, sleep, work, and other activities.
- Do not be afraid to ask for help. Reach out to a trusted advisor, teacher, family member, or friend for support.
- Revisit the importance of hand washing hygiene at school and in public.
- Find activities that help manage stress for both you and your family.
- Talk to your student about the importance of safe travel to and from school, being aware of their surroundings, stranger danger, and emergency plans.
“When students are well-rested, well-nourished, and emotionally supported, they are better able to focus, retain information and engage meaningfully with their peers and teachers,” said Bish.
Resources:
- Call, text, or chat 988 for emotional support or thoughts of suicide
- Same Day Scheduling and Walk-In Access Behavioral Health services dhhs.ne.gov/SameDay
- Nebraska Family Helpline – Any question, any time. (888) 866-8660
- If you suspect abuse or neglect, call the Adult and Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at (800) 652-1999 or visit https://neabusehotline-dhhs.ne.gov/ to make a report
- If you have questions about which immunizations your child needs, contact your health provider or local health department https://dhhs.ne.gov/CHPM%20Maps/LHDcontactMaster.pdf
- Use NESIIS to securely download immunization records at https://dhhs.ne.gov//ImmunizationRecordSearch
- Parents can apply for various benefits for their household through the iServe portal. Visit https://iserve.nebraska.gov to apply or update your information
- Individuals with an intellectual and developmental disability can access resources explaining the transition from school to adult services at: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/DD-Resources.aspx. Teachers can access information about supporting students with IDD at: https://dhhs.ne.gov/DD%20Documents/Tips%20for%20Teachers.pdf