Dr. Martinko, who specializes in adolescent medicine, said nutrition can affect a child’s entire day. “Kids who eat breakfast tend to do better in school,” he said. “Even something small, like a granola bar, is better than skipping breakfast.”
For lunch, he recommends a healthy, well-balanced meal that will keep children full throughout the day. “Because children are going through a growth spurt, they need a lot of calories,” Dr. Martinko said. “But they also need to be careful what they eat. Students should avoid vending machines during the day, and eat a nutritional snack once they get home from school.”
Dr. Martinko said students should get eight to nine hours of sleep each night. “During the growing stages, children are going to need much more sleep,” he said. “Make sure they follow the recommended sleep cycle on the weekends. If they don’t, it will be harder for them to function on Mondays because their bodies aren’t used to the change.”
Parents should also watch for signs of bad vision. “If they start getting headaches toward the end of the school day or if you notice they are sitting closer to the TV or computer, then they are most likely having vision problems,” he said. Dr. Martinko said that during the pubertal growth spurt, the shape of the eye often changes, so a child who never needed glasses before may develop a problem. “When they come in for their annual exam, children should have their vision checked so if any problems exist, they can be corrected.”
Although it can sometimes be difficult to determine if your child needs to stay home from school because of illness, Dr. Martinko said there are a few symptoms that can help you make the decision. “Fever is one of the main indications that they need to stay home,” he said. “Also, if you think they will pose a threat to others – for example, if they are coughing or sneezing -- then it is best that they stay home to avoid spreading the germs to classmates.”
According to Dr. Martinko, bullying can be seen at all age levels. “Discuss with your children ahead of time. Chances are, others are getting bullied by the same person,” he said. “If you think your child is being bullied, contact the school and let them know of your concerns.”
If you have teenagers, Dr. Martinko stressed the importance of watching for signs of substance abuse. “Alcohol is one of the main causes of death among teenagers,” he said, “and it leads to bad choices and bad judgment.” Dr. Martinko recommends that parents and students set up a contract through Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD), organizations dedicated to preventing destructive decisions and setting a healthier, safer course for the lives of teenagers.
“Most importantly, every parent should keep tabs as to what’s going on with their child at school, and get to know their friends,” Dr. Martinko said. “Talk to your kids after school everyday, and give them that emotional support that they want and need.”
Dr. Martinko is board certified in adolescent medicine and has more than 20 years of experience in dealing with adolescent issues. His outpatient practice is located at USA Springhill Avenue. To schedule an appointment, call 434-3915.
