Between busy schedules, after-school activities, and growing academic demands, keeping kids healthy during the school year can be a challenge. But parents aren’t in it alone—school nurses play a vital role in supporting students’ physical, emotional, and developmental health. With a little communication and collaboration, parents and school nurses can become a strong team for student well-being.
What Does a School Nurse Do?
School nurses do far more than manage scraped knees and stomachaches. They are trained healthcare professionals who help monitor chronic conditions, manage medication, support mental health, respond to emergencies, and promote overall wellness. In many schools, they’re also the first to notice patterns in a child’s behavior or health that might warrant further attention.
According to the National Association of School Nurses, school nurses are critical to early detection of issues like asthma, diabetes, allergies, anxiety, and even vision or hearing problems that may affect learning.
How Parents Can Team Up With the School Nurse
- Share Key Health Info Early
At the start of the school year—or as soon as your child is diagnosed with a condition—update the school nurse about:- Allergies (food, seasonal, or medication)
- Chronic conditions (asthma, diabetes, seizures)
- Mental health concerns (anxiety, depression)
- Medications your child takes at school or home
The more the nurse knows, the better they can support your child throughout the day.
- Provide a Medication Action Plan
If your child requires medication during school hours (like an inhaler or EpiPen), work with your pediatrician and the school nurse to develop a care plan. Keep all forms current and clearly labeled. - Don’t Wait to Report Changes
Is your child suddenly more tired? Struggling with stomachaches before school? Experiencing new symptoms? Let the nurse know. They may be able to spot patterns or catch early signs of bigger issues. - Encourage Your Child to Speak Up
Let kids know the school nurse is there to help, not just when they feel sick, but when they feel overwhelmed, anxious, or unsafe. Building trust with the nurse gives students a safe adult to turn to when they need support. - Stay in the Loop
Many school nurses send home updates or newsletters about illness trends (like flu or strep), screenings, and health programs. Take a minute to read them—it’s an easy way to stay ahead of common concerns.