Weathering Back to School

The media is awash with Back To School trends and tips on the latest fashions, the newest gadgets, and the coolest places to shop. But no one seems to be offering their thoughts on Back to School weather tips.

Now, you may be wondering what weather has to do with going back to school. And you might just be surprised to find out that the answer is, quite a bit.

Dehydration: Strenuous sports, like football and soccer, are often physically demanding for children... particularly after a long relaxing summer without much physical activity. According to May Clinic, children struggle with intense exercise in hot, humid weather even more than adults. In fact, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveals that 3,469 children were treated in emergency rooms from 2001-2009 for heat-related illnesses sustained while participating in a sport or recreational activity.

Tip: Send one or two frozen bottles of water to school with your child. By the time practice rolls around, the water will be ready to drink, encouraging your child to stay hydrated before, during and after practice.

Headaches: A recent study completed by Children's Mercy Hospitals and Clinics identified a surprising connection between children's headaches and inclement weather. Specifically, the study showed that 59% of children were likely to experience headache symptoms during rain or snow versus 22% experiencing similar symptoms when there was no precipitation in the forecast. This same pattern held true during times of heightened humidity.

Tip: Be informed about approaching weather fronts so that you can proactively manage your child's headache before it results in lost days at school.

Reduced Visibility: When bad weather - like fog, rain or snow - strikes, drivers often have a more difficult time seeing pedestrians. Children walking to school or to their bus stop may also be paying less attention as they shelter themselves under an umbrella or move quickly towards their destination.

Tip: Talk to your children about being extra careful walking to school or to their bus stop when adverse weather strikes.

Extreme Temperatures: When the thermometer skyrockets or plummets, children are often unprepared for the extreme temperatures, especially if they are not dressed appropriately.

Tip: When temperatures rise, select lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothes, along with sunscreen to protect your child's skin. When temperatures drop, select a windproof and waterproof jacket along with a hat, boots and wool clothing to keep your child warm.

Sue Northey
Director Research & Measurement
Branigan Communications

Brand Strategist | Market Research Pro | Qualitative Moderator | Consumer Trend Specialist | Adjunct Professor | Blogger | Author | AMA Volunteer | #UsGuys

Sue is one of the key leaders at Branigan Communications. She teaches Advertising at Marquette University and is a two-time published author. Branigan Communications has particular expertise in strategic planning, market research, media relations, social media, corporate communication events, employee relations, and crisis communications. Branigan takes measurement seriously and looks forward to being held accountable for the programs they implement for you.

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