As both a nurse and a mom, I’ve learned that staying healthy during the school year isn’t just about handwashing, covering coughs or staying home with a fever—health prevention measures start with something as simple as what we send in our kids’ backpacks.
This realization hit me after our first year of Young Fives, when I saw how much of a difference it makes to be intentional about what my child brings to school. Here are some go-to items you can pack in your child’s backpack that are nurse-approved, and mom-tested to keep kids healthy, comfortable and ready to learn.
Daily health essentials
Pack these items to help your child stay healthy and comfortable:
- Reusable Water Bottle- Staying hydrated supports focus and energy.
- Healthy Snacks– Snacks such as fruit, whole-grain crackers or cheese sticks help keep blood sugar levels regulated. Check your classrooms allergy rules prior to sending snacks.
- Hand Sanitizer– Handy for times when sinks aren’t available. Teach your child that sanitizer doesn’t replace handwashing before eating or after bathroom use.
- Tissues– For runny noses, sneezes or small spills.
- Extra Outfit- Keep a change of clothes in a large bag so wet or dirty clothes can be sent home separately.
Tip: Choose kid-friendly packaging.
Seasonal & preventive items
These items aren’t needed every day but are useful during certain times of the year:
- Chapstick or lip balm– Prevents chapped lips year-round; bonus if it includes SPF.
- Travel sunscreen stick– These provide quick application for sunny days (especially for field trips or sports).
- Allergy wipes or saline spray– Helpful for spring/pollen season to help remove allergens from the hands and face.
Seasonal prep can prevent small discomforts from becoming bigger health issues.
RELATED: Nurse Mom’s Guide: Back-to-School Health Made Easy
Comfort & emotional wellness items
Staying healthy isn’t just about avoiding germs- it’s about supporting emotional well-being too.
- Small comfort item– A tiny keychain or note from home can offer reassurance. Check with teachers before sending larger comfort items like blankets.
- Breathable face mask- Optional, but useful for illness prevention or outbreaks at school.
- Positive affirmation card– Short, uplifting notes can help your child feel supported on tough days.
Nurse-mom pro tips for backpack health
- Rotate & clean– Regularly empty and wipe down backpacks to prevent crumbs, mold or bacteria buildup. Germs carry from school to the home easily on backpacks. Cleaning out and disinfecting bags and lunch boxes regularly helps contain the spread of germs.
- Teach kids when to use each item– Empower your child to use the items you pack and give them simple instructions about how to use them (e.g., “sanitize before eating,” “sip water every hour”).
- Avoid overpacking– Keep it light to prevent back strain and stick to items you know they’ll use and need.
- Label everything– Prevents sharing items that could spread germs and helps lost items find their way back.
Packing a backpack with a few thoughtful, health-focused items can go a long way in keeping your child feeling their best throughout the year. At the end of the day, it’s about giving them what they need to feel good, stay healthy and remain confident at school. A little prep can lead to peace of mind for the school year.
