Kwa-Thema – As learners prepare to return to school for Term 3, health promoter Sifiso Ntshangase from the Kwa-Thema Clinic is encouraging parents and guardians to prioritise their children’s health and well-being to ensure a successful start to the new term.

Ntshangase said maintaining good health is essential for learners to stay focused, attend school consistently and perform well academically.

He encouraged families to adopt healthy habits at home to reduce the spread of common winter illnesses.

“Children who are healthy are more likely to participate actively in class and achieve better academic outcomes.

“Parents should make their children’s health a priority by promoting good hygiene, balanced nutrition and adequate rest,” he said.

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He advised parents to ensure learners wash their hands regularly with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the toilet.

Learners should also be taught to cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing to help prevent the spread of infections.

Ntshangase urged parents not to send children to school when they are showing symptoms of illness, such as a fever, persistent cough or vomiting.

“When a child is sick, they need time to recover.

“Keeping them at home when they are unwell also helps protect other learners and school staff from becoming ill,” he explained.

He encouraged parents to pack nutritious lunchboxes that include healthy snacks, fruit and enough water to keep children energised throughout the school day while limiting sugary foods and drinks.

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Ntshangase also highlighted the importance of ensuring learners get enough sleep before school resumes, saying a consistent bedtime routine improves concentration, memory and overall wellbeing.

He reminded parents to dress children warmly during the cold winter mornings and encouraged regular physical activity to support both physical and mental health.

“Parents should also ensure their children attend routine clinic visits and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.

“Early treatment can prevent complications and reduce absenteeism from school,” he said.

As schools reopen for Term 3, Ntshangase called on parents, educators and the community to work together to create a healthy environment where learners can thrive.

“Education and health go hand in hand. When children are healthy, they have a better opportunity to learn, grow and reach their full potential,” he concluded.