9-04-2026 11:20pm

Mercy Health Physician Shares Back-to-School Health Tips for Warren County Families

Beth Callahan Editor

Photo via Pexels.com

KINGS MILLS, OH– As students return to the classroom, parents are often focused on school supplies, schedules and extracurricular activities. Mercy Health encourages families to also prioritize their children's health to help ensure a successful school year.

According to Dr. Todd Bramlee, DO, with Mercy Health—Kings Mills Primary Care, proactive health management can reduce the risk of missed school days and help children perform their best academically and socially.

"Back-to-school season is an excellent time for parents to take a fresh look at their child's overall health," said Dr. Bramlee. "Simple habits like getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, staying physically active and practicing good hand hygiene can go a long way in helping children stay healthy throughout the school year."

Schools bring children together in close contact, which can increase exposure to common illnesses such as colds, flu and other respiratory infections. Parents can help protect their children by:

Ensuring vaccinations are up to date
Encouraging regular handwashing with soap and water
Teaching children to cover coughs and sneezes
Keeping sick children home when appropriate
Prioritizing healthy sleep habits and nutrition

"Children's immune systems function best when they're well-rested and properly nourished," Dr. Bramlee said. "Parents are often surprised at how much of an impact consistent sleep schedules can have on a child's overall wellness."

For children living with allergies, asthma, diabetes or other chronic health conditions, preparation is essential.

Dr. Bramlee recommends parents meet with school nurses, teachers and administrators before the school year begins to discuss care plans, medications and emergency procedures.

"If your child has a chronic condition, communication is key," said Dr. Bramlee. "Make sure the school understands your child's health needs and that all required forms, medications and emergency action plans are updated and readily available."

Parents should also discuss any changes in symptoms or treatment plans with their primary care provider throughout the year.

While occasional illness-related absences are expected, frequent absences can affect a child's learning, social development and academic progress.

"Parents should pay attention if their child is missing school regularly due to health concerns," Dr. Bramlee said. "Recurring illnesses, unmanaged asthma symptoms, severe allergies or other health issues may signal an underlying problem that should be evaluated by a healthcare provider."

He encourages parents to speak with their child's primary care provider if absences become frequent or if they notice ongoing physical, emotional or behavioral concerns affecting attendance.

Join Mercy Health at the Kings Mills Community Health Fair

To support families as they prepare for the school year, Mercy Health—Kings Mills Primary Care will host a Community Health Fair on Friday, Sept. 19th from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM.

Free and open to the public, the event will provide health information, wellness resources and an opportunity for community members to connect with local healthcare professionals. Along with opportunities to talk with local primary and specialty care physicians, there will be fun family activities, such as: giveaways, music, refreshments, and special guest appearances (such as Gary the Lion from FC Cincinnati).

"Health fairs are a great way for families to learn about preventive care and community resources," Dr. Bramlee said. "We look forward to welcoming families and helping them start the school year on a healthy note."

For more information about Mercy Health—Kings Mills Primary Care or to schedule an appointment, visit Mercy.com.