The Basics of Going Back to School

No matter what grade your child is about to enter, there's the yearly back-to-school checklist of to-dos for them and for you. We break it down and make it look easy.

Checklist for their checkups
Before school starts, you want to make sure kids are happy and healthy. Plan ahead for their yearly physicals and sports-specific exams to avoid scheduling conflicts, surprise bills and paperwork headaches. Prepare any questions you might have for your family doctor beforehand to make your visit as purposeful as possible.

Back-to-school budgeting
Whether they’re headed off to first grade or freshman year, some basic budgeting can go a long way. Start by considering what your child’s needs are, set a realistic budget and don’t forget to take advantage of the many sales this season. Save yourself from unnecessary spending by taking stock of the supplies you already have before heading to the store. And remember, your Financial Dashboard helps keep track of your healthcare expenses so you can access key spending information in real time.

Pre-college checklist
Checkups aren’t just for children. Preparing your kids for college, whether it’s close to home or far away, comes with specific medical requirements like making sure they are up-to-date on all of their vaccines. Take some time to do a little research and make sure that you both are aware of the mental and physical health resources available on campus and via telehealth services. Need a refresh on your benefits when it comes to preventive care? Check them out here.

Don’t forget about yourself
Back-to-school is an exciting but stressful time, and you shouldn’t neglect your feelings and needs. Adjusting to changes in the home and sending children off to college can cause anxiety and depression. Use this time to make sure you’re taking care of your mental and physical health as well. The fepblue app is a great way to keep track of your benefits and access care for you and your family.