Six experts and six subjects that focus on back-to-school preparation

By Leha Byrd

As summer ends, the advertisements for trendy, back-to-school classroom essentials and clothing begins, The U.S. Census Bureau estimates $8.8 billion was spent in family clothing stores for back-to-school shopping in August 2015. Sales at bookstores that month were estimated at $1.6 billion.

In addition to new clothes and classroom materials however, a child’s physical, emotional and mental stability is also critical with the start of a new school year, as it may present abrupt academic and social challenges. With local public schools scheduled to open their doors Sept. 6, Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU providers are available for media interviews about health, dietary, and social preparation associated with back-to-school planning.

Sonya Islam, is a registered dietitian who works with CHoR’s Healthy Lifestyles Center, which focuses on childhood obesity issues and promoting healthy weight management in young people. She can offer healthy lunch ideas and suggestions for meal planning throughout the busy school year.  

John Collins, M.D., is a neurosurgeon who can speak about the importance of core strength in student athletes to help prevent spinal injuries.

Bela Sood, M.D., is a psychiatrist who can offer expertise about the anxieties students face at the onset of a new school year, including transitions from elementary school to middle school and bullying.

Elizabeth Wolf, M.D., is a pediatrician who can address the importance of immunizations.

Michael Schechter, M.D., is a pulmonologist with extensive experience in the care of children with asthma and other respiratory complications. He can speak about back-to-school colds that trigger asthma complications and how parents and educators can prepare.  

Justin Brockbank, M.D., is a pulmonologist who can speak about the importance of establishing good sleep habits for children during the school year.