CENTRE COUNTY —With the first day of school fast approaching, The GIANT Company’s pharmacists and dietitians say now’s the time to get a jump on health, nutrition and organization to make the transition from summer to school year smoother for the whole family.
“The start of a new school year doesn’t have to be stressful if you and your family are prepared with a plan to simplify and refresh,” Nick Koch, director of pharmacy and well-being for The GIANT Company, said. “From working with our pharmacists on required immunizations and medications for your child, to quick meal inspiration from our dietitians, tackling a few things now can set everyone up for a healthy and successful school year.”
Before the buses roll, parents should ensure their children are up-to-date on required immunizations and physicals. GIANT’s pharmacists offer vaccines, making it convenient to check that box before the school bell rings.
It’s also the right time to update important health documents. If your child takes daily medications or has food allergies, schools typically require a current Medication Action Plan or Allergy Action Plan. Whether it’s an inhaler, insulin, an epinephrine pen or other daily medication, GIANT’s pharmacy team can help coordinate refills, manage prescriptions and organize documentation so everything is in order on day one.
GIANT’s dietitians are stepping in to make meal planning easier, offering quick, affordable and balanced recipes. Their “Dietitian Picks” feature snacks and meals with five or fewer ingredients, along with free virtual well-being classes that earn shoppers 50 CHOICE points.
Every Monday at noon, the team hosts a live cooking class featuring an under-30-minute meal using items from that week’s flyer. This month’s lineup includes a “Back-to-School Virtual Nutrition Store Tour” on Thursday, Aug. 28, to help parents beat lunchbox burnout.
Parents can also make dinner less of a scramble by creating a weekly meal plan with theme nights like Taco Tuesday or Breakfast-for-Dinner. Getting kids involved can make them more excited about eating at home and even willing to try something new.
Koch recommends reviewing home health supplies before the school year starts. A stocked medicine cabinet and first-aid kit can prevent headaches later. Check expiration dates, toss out old medications, and refill essentials like pain relievers, antihistamines, antibiotic ointment and fever reducers.
The pantry could use a refresh too. Keeping it stocked with easy snacks makes after school hunger easier to handle and keeps kids from getting “hangry.”
