As summer draws to a close and fall approaches, many families are preparing for the back-to-school season. This time of year is exciting, yet it also presents unique health challenges in light of ongoing public health concerns. Ensuring that children return to school safely is paramount for parents, educators, and communities. Here’s a comprehensive look at key measures to promote health and safety for kids as they head back to school.

1. Understanding Health Protocols

Vaccinations

Before school begins, it’s essential to ensure that children are up-to-date on their vaccinations. Routine immunizations help protect against a myriad of diseases. The CDC recommends certain vaccines for children heading into kindergarten and middle school, such as: – DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis)

– MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)

– Varicella (Chickenpox)

– COVID-19 vaccinations as advised by health officials.

These vaccinations not only safeguard individual children but also contribute to herd immunity, helping protect the broader school community. Health Screenings

A thorough health assessment, including vision and hearing tests, can ensure that potential issues are addressed promptly. Schools often require health forms; ensuring these are filled out accurately can help educators understand any specific needs your child may have. 

2. Promoting Hygiene Practices Hand Hygiene

Encourage children to wash their hands regularly, especially before meals and after using the restroom. Hand sanitizer should be made available in the classroom, as it can be an effective alternative when soap and water aren’t accessible.

3. Mental Health Awareness

Back-to-school time can be a source of anxiety for many children. Parents should foster open communication with their kids about their feelings regarding this transition. Here are some ways to support their mental well-being:

Encourage Routine: Establishing a consistent morning and evening routine can successfully ease the transition back to school, helping to reduce anxiety.

Promote Open Dialogue: Create a safe space for children to express their fears and concerns. Encourage them to share their experiences and feelings about returning to school.

Mindfulness Practices: Teach children relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises and mindfulness practices, to help them manage stress.

4. Nutrition and Physical Health

A balanced diet plays a crucial role in supporting a child’s immune system and overall physical health. As they transition back to school:

Healthy Breakfasts: Encourage kids not to skip breakfast. Foods rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats keep them energized throughout the school day.

Balanced Lunches: Prepare nutritious lunches that include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to strengthen their bodies.

Hydration: Remind children to drink plenty of water throughout the day, as staying hydrated is essential for maintaining focus and energy levels.

5. Safe Transportation Whether children walk, bike, or take the bus to school, it’s crucial to ensure their safety during transportation:

Walking/Biking: Parents should accompany younger children or organize walking groups with neighbors to increase safety. Remind them to use crosswalks and obey traffic signals.

Bus Safety: Review bus safety rules with your child, including waiting for the bus at a safe distance and following directions from the bus driver.

6. Close Monitoring of Health Symptoms

Parents should keep a vigilant eye on any signs of illness, such as fever, cough, or fatigue. In case a child shows symptoms, it’s advisable to keep them home and consult a healthcare provider. Schools have policies regarding illness that should be followed to prevent the spread of infections.

This back-to-school season, the focus is on creating a safe and healthy environment for children. By being proactive about vaccinations, promoting hygiene, and nurturing mental well-being, parents and caregivers can help their kids thrive as they return to the classroom. Education about safety and health is a collaborative effort, and together, we can ensure a successful and healthy school year for all children.

Dr Minogue enjoys treating patients of all ages and stages of life. This includes helping athletes reach optimal performance, supporting mothers through prenatal and postpartum stages, keeping infant’s and children’s spines aligned for optimal nervous system development, and helping older patients age gracefully.

Appointments can be made online at MySaratogaCiropractor.com.

“Mothering Boys”

You know how kids go through phases? Whenever one of my boys has been in a particularly challenging phase, one of the things that has traditionally helped raise my spirits has been that the boys have always taken turns going through challenging phases, so when we’re dealing with something from one, we can generally count on the other boys to be their normal selves. One challenge at a time.

Well. This summer, all summer, it seemed like every single one of the boys was going through a challenging phase. Nobody took turns! Everyone wanted to be difficult! It was kind of amazing to see, and my husband and I shook our heads over it more than once.

When thinking about what to write for this month’s column, I was looking back at previous topics I wrote about during this back-to-school month and discovered that I’d written about this very kind of thing just a couple of years ago. In fact, that old article said it about as well as I could at this moment in time, so please enjoy this very nearly perfect account of how I’m feeling now that school has started again:

Today all of my children are back at school, and none too soon, as the last few weeks have been characterized by insufferable, unending arguing.

My kids certainly have their fair share of arguments in the normal way of siblings, especially since so many of them think they’re experts on everything all the time, but it hasn’t been so pervasive, so constant, so ridiculous, as it has been in the last month or so. Any time any of the boys has said anything at all, without fail another of the boys has landed on them with all the reasons why they’re wrong or dumb. 

Innocent mistakes aren’t safe. For example, Number 2 commented recently, “I keep thinking today is Friday!” and Number 6 immediately said scornfully, “Why do you keep thinking today is Friday??” Then the two of them were off and running with a back-and-forth argument about why sometimes people fall into thinking a certain day is a different day and no, it’s not a stupid thing to think, you’re stupid, no you are, etc.

Observations aren’t safe. For example, Number 5 said to Number 6, “Isn’t it weird that we don’t all have the same brothers?” Number 6 thought about this for a minute and then realized it was true. “Oh yeah!” he said. “Because you are my brother, but you’re not your own brother!” I was so pleased that this conversation — normally the kind of thing that would immediately devolve into an argument — went so nicely … until Number 4, who wasn’t part of the conversation, said aggressively, “Yes we do have the same brothers!” and the three of them were off and running with a back-and-forth argument about why it’s true, no it’s not true, yes it is true, you’re stupid, no you are, etc.

Opinions aren’t safe. I cannot tell you how many times I’ve heard the boys squabbling over matters of opinion. Whether something is delicious or not. Whether a particular TV show or YouTube channel is interesting or not. Whether someone is cold, or hot, or hungry, or bored — things that are subjective, things that are matters of opinion, things that can be true for one boy and not for the other boy at the exact same time. There have been so many times that I’ve had to remind them that they’re each allowed to have their own opinion; just because you think something tastes gross doesn’t mean your brother has to agree with you; yes you can think someone else’s opinion is ridiculous but they’re still allowed to have it. I’ve taken the opportunity when I can to explain the difference between informed opinions versus uninformed opinions, but when it comes to one boy preferring his hot dog without a bun versus the other boy preferring it with a bun, no one is objectively right.

Creativity isn’t safe. Number 7 gave the inexplicable name “Artra Star” to a spider on our window, which several of his brothers told him was a dumb name and decided it was a hill they would die on. 

It’s even gotten to the point where no one will be saying anything at all that can be disagreed with, so someone will create an argument out of thin air, just to bother each other. Like when Number 6 said to Number 7, out of the blue, for no other reason than to bother him: “You are cheese. You look like cheese, you smell like cheese, you taste like cheese.” Number 7 immediately took the bait, saying, “I am not cheese! Cheese doesn’t even have a smell!” Number 6 replied calmly, “To me it does.” My husband, sensing an escalation, tried to diffuse the situation by teasing Number 7: “Everyone knows you’re a donut!” But Number 7 would not be soothed — instead, he wailed, “I am not food!” and then started crying, “Everyone is making fun of me!”

These are all real examples. As the weeks of arguing dragged on, I started keeping a list of these arguments in a notebook and on my phone, and even with that, I was only able to capture a fraction of what we’ve all had to deal with as the summer has wound down. I’ll be happy for everyone to have time away from each other as we head back to school, and I’ll delight in seeing how happy they are to be back together at home after busy days away. They really are good boys, and they really do enjoy spending time together — as long as none of them make the mistake of thinking today is a different day than it actually is!

Kate and her husband have seven sons ages 20, 19, 17, 15, 13, 11, and 7. Email her at kmtowne23@gmail.com.

You’ve seen the photos, athletes, celebrities, maybe even your neighbor, sitting in a tub full of ice cubes, smiling (or grimacing) for the camera. Ice baths, once reserved for pro athletes are moving into the mainstream of non-athlete.  Sales are soaring, some stores can’t keep them in stock. Amazon sells inflatable and collapsable tubs for less than $60. What’s the deal? Ice baths are pretty much what it sounds like: you sit in a tub of chilly water (about 50–59 degrees) for a few minutes, usually after a workout for faster recovery. 

The idea is that an ice bath reduces inflammation, muscles recover faster and cuts down on soreness. Some people say it gives them a mental boost, like hitting a reset button for the brain. There’s some science behind it. Think about it, hurt yourself, where’s the bag of ice (or peas). A few studies even suggest cold immersion can improve mood. Ice does in fact, reduce inflammation. Beyond the improved physical impact, many enthusiasts say ice baths give them an energy boost, mental clarity, and even help with stress management. The sudden chill also challenges the nervous system, which may explain why some people feel more resilient and alert afterward but are they actually good for you, or just really, really cold?

As ‘cool’ as it seems to sit in a tub of ice water, there are cons; the initial shock of an ice bath can take your breath away. A major concern is the shock to your system, especially for people with a heart condition. Cold exposure causes blood vessels to constrict, which can reduce circulation and temporarily increase blood pressure. Some studies suggest they may limit strength and hypertrophy gains if used right after resistance training. 

So, the Bottom Line, ice baths can be a fun and invigorating tool. If you’re curious and healthy enough to try them, just keep it short (five to ten minutes is plenty). Ease in slowly, and don’t expect them to magically solve all your aches and pains. At the end of the day, recovery doesn’t have to be extreme. Sometimes the best medicine is as simple as a good night’s sleep, healthy food, hydration usually do the trick or simply, a cozy bath with candles and bubbles.

As Wall Street turns the calendar to the final quarter of 2025, investors find themselves navigating a complex and often contradictory landscape. The year has been a testament to market resilience, yet the echoes of earlier volatility, coupled with persistent geopolitical and economic questions, have left many feeling uncertain. While the specter of ongoing trade tensions and shifting monetary policy rightfully commands attention, a deeper analysis of underlying economic fundamentals and market dynamics suggests that a strategy of cautious optimism may be the most prudent course for the remainder of the year.

The primary pillar supporting a positive outlook is the surprising durability of the U.S. economy. Despite forecasts of a more significant slowdown, economic activity has proven remarkably stubborn, made possible, in part, by the fractured implementation of tariff threats, and a slower than anticipated deportation rate.

Projections for the fourth quarter indicate a stabilization of GDP growth, underpinned by a labor market that, though softening, remains relatively strong. Continued strength in employment will be vital in providing a critical foundation for household financial stability, directly fueling the consumer spending that constitutes the largest portion of the American economy.

Inflationary pressures, the dominant economic narrative of the last two years, have shown definitive signs of slowing. Key metrics, such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI), have trended downward, with notable cooling in previously volatile categories like energy and used vehicles. This disinflationary trend has granted the Federal Reserve a crucial degree of flexibility. The Producer Price Index (PPI) has shown a recent increase, however, which may be indicative of tariff charges not yet being passed on to consumers. 

After a historically aggressive and successful campaign of monetary tightening, the central bank has adopted a “wait-and-see” approach, pausing its interest rate hikes. This pause has been a significant tailwind for equities, stabilizing the cost of capital for businesses and lowering the discount rate used to value future earnings. While we don’t expect a significant reduction in interest rates in the near-term, we do expect the Fed to begin cautiously lowering rates as long as inflation and the labor markets remain in-check.

This optimism, however, must be firmly anchored in reality. Prudence is essential, as significant risks still remain. 

The most prominent headwind remains the unresolved nature of international trade policies. The potential for new tariffs or the escalation of existing disputes casts a shadow of uncertainty over global supply chains and corporate profitability. Industries with significant international exposure, such as manufacturing and technology, remain particularly vulnerable. Investors must diligently monitor geopolitical developments, as a sudden negative turn could quickly sour market sentiment.

Domestically, the health of the American consumer, while currently robust, warrants close observation. There are signs of stress appearing at the margins. Rising credit card delinquency rates and a dwindling personal savings rate suggest that some households are stretching their finances thin. A more pronounced pullback in consumer spending, should it materialize, would act as a direct and powerful brake on economic growth.

We view the remainder of 2025 through the same lens as we did the first two thirds; one of cautious optimism. The constructive backdrop of a resilient economy, moderating inflation, and a broadening market rally provides a solid foundation for positive returns. However, the ever-present risks of trade policy, foreign policy, and a potential consumer slowdown cannot be dismissed. By working closely with their Certified Financial Planner® professional, and embracing a posture of cautious optimism, investors can work to strategically position themselves to capitalize on the opportunities ahead while remaining vigilant against the uncertainties that will inevitably arise.

Stephen Kyne, CFP® is a Partner at Sterling Manor Financial, LLC in Saratoga Springs.

Sterling Manor Financial, LLC is an SEC Registered Investment Advisor and does not provide tax or legal advice, nor is it a third-party administrator. Consult your attorney or accountant prior to implementing any tax or legal strategies

A Potential Significant Change in New York Law

For the first time, New York’s Medical Aid in Dying Act (“MAID Act”) has passed both the Assembly and Senate and is awaiting the Governor’s signature.  While previous versions of the MAID Act have been introduced and passed by the Assembly, they never passed the Senate. It is unclear at this time whether the Governor will sign the bill into law.  

If signed into law, the MAID Act will allow mentally competent, terminally ill adults with a prognosis of six months or less to live to request medication from their treating physician that the patient can choose to self-administer to bring about their death.  

How would the MAID Act change New York Law? 

Currently, individuals have the right to refuse life-sustaining treatment that only prolongs the dying process. This includes refusing artificial respiration, hydration, and nutrition. If you have a health care proxy agent, they may refuse such treatments on your behalf.

However, under current law, individuals cannot request or direct their health care providers to help them end their life. The MAID Act would change this by allowing certain qualified individuals to request prescribed medication to end their life.

Who qualifies under the MAID Act? 

A qualifying individual is a mentally competent person over the age of 18, who in the judgment of two physicians has a condition or illness that will reasonably result in their death within six months.  

The qualifying individual must request verbally and in writing for their treating physician to prescribe medication that will cause their death.  The qualifying individual must administer the medication themself without assistance.  

Can a health care proxy agent make the request?

No. A health care proxy agent cannot make this request on behalf of another person. The request must come directly from the qualified individual.

Can the medication be taken at home? 

Yes, a qualifying individual may take the medication at home. Any unused medication must be disposed of according to medical advice and in line with the MAID Act’s guidelines.

Can the individual change their mind? 

Yes, the individual can change their mind at any time. Before prescribing the medication, the physician must offer the patient the opportunity to rescind their request.

Can a health care provider refuse to prescribe such medication?

Yes, generally, a physician or health care facility may choose not to prescribe or dispense the medication.  However, they are required to transfer the patient to a physician or facility willing to prescribe and dispense the medication.

How would the MAID Act affect health insurance? 

The MAID Act prevents health insurance companies from denying coverage for any service or item that would otherwise be covered, just because the patient has or has not chosen to request medication under the MAID Act.

Will the MAID Act affect life insurance? 

No. Life insurance companies cannot deny benefits to beneficiaries based on whether the insured person has requested or used medication under the MAID Act.

What if a terminally ill person does not qualify?

If someone is terminally ill but does not meet the requirements of the MAID Act, they still have other options, such as refusing life-sustaining treatment. If the individual lacks decision-making capacity, their health care agent may refuse treatment on their behalf, acting in the individual’s best interest and in accordance with their wishes.

How can you prepare for end-of-life care?

To best prepare for end-of-life care, you should make sure you have a Health Care Proxy in place. This document appoints someone you trust to follow your wishes and act in your best interest in the event you cannot. 

End-of-life decision making can involve deeply personal considerations including one’s religious faith, quality of life, and the wellbeing of loved ones.  Legal assistance can prove valuable to successfully navigate those decisions for yourself and those closest to you.  If you have questions about your options or how to communicate your end-of-life wishes, it is a good idea to consult with an estate planning attorney.

Anna R. Myers Norton is an associate attorney with O’Connell and Aronowitz, 1 Court Street, Saratoga Springs, New York.  Anna’s practice is focused in the areas of trust and estate law, including estate planning and estate administration. 

“Mothering Boys”

My mother’s heart has been pulled hither and yon this past school year, between my biggest boy, who spent a semester in D.C. and a summer on Long island, and my other big boys, who are in varying stages of figuring things out with college and jobs, and my little boys, who want very much to be big boys and don’t realize the gift they have of still being kids. Sometimes I look at all my boys in wonderment: these are fantastic young men! Sometimes I look at all my boys with what feels like crippling sadness: where are my babies?!

It’s not always complicated like that, though. One of my favorite things this summer, which has been a balm to my tender heart, is watching my youngest squeeze every bit out of this summertime life. He is a boy with big emotions, and one of the big emotions he’s been showing a lot is JOY. I am sometimes moved to tears to watch him living life right now: there is clearly nothing better in the entire world than being a six-year-old boy in the summertime with six older brothers and lots of cousins and water to swim in and grass to run in and scooters to ride and forts to build and ice cream to eat. He’s able to stay up later, sleep in longer, play more video games, take more trips than he’s ever been able to in his life. I regularly hear big belly laughs coming out of him when he’s playing with (or bothering!) his brothers. His blond hair has gotten blonder, his freckles have multiplied, he has tan lines and bug bite scabs and has lost two teeth. If you were going to make an ad for “little boys,” he would be the perfect model.

While watching him in general is one of my favorite things, one of my specifically favorite things to watch is him swimming. I have absolutely loved watching him swim this summer. After a short freak-out at the beginning of the summer when we realized his swimmies didn’t fit anymore and he was sure he had completely forgotten how to swim and would never be able to enjoy the water (he’s a little dramatic), he was able to quickly regain his skills with the help of his dad and a half hour lesson in the lake, and then he turned into a fish. An actual fish! He swims and swims and swims, underwater and on top, and has mastered every fun thing about swimming, including — as he proudly tells everyone — “diving for a ring at 7 feet deep!” He recently completed the two weeks of swimming lessons we have the little boys do at Skidmore each summer and his instructor wrote on his evaluation form that he is “a beast” in the water and that his comfort level in the water “is a beautiful thing.” It really is! When he jumps into the water from the side of the pool or the dock at the lake, it’s more of a no-holds-barred *launch* — he throws himself into the water with abandon! He does belly flops and cannonballs and pencil dives and scrambles out of the water to do them again and again and again.  

Maybe I’ve been so struck by my littlest guy’s uninhibited joy because I’m seeing my older boys starting to realize that adulthood isn’t what we all think it will be when we’re young. I’m so pleased and proud of all that they’re doing and how they’re stepping up and being responsible, but what a bummer to find out that once you start earning money, then you have bills to pay! Once you’re allowed to stay up as late as you want, you can’t because you have to work the next day! Even my middle schoolers are past the “free summer” stage and are grumbling through their summer reading and math review. I think we’re all a little envious of my youngest boy and his zero-responsibility, uninhibitedly joyful summer.

Of course, time keeps marching on. Since it’s August, I’m focusing on buying school supplies and new school shoes, and readying school clothes, backpacks, and lunchboxes. I’m already looking ahead to this time next year when we’ll have a college graduation, a high school graduation, and a middle school graduation, as well as our last First Communion (traditionally done in second grade for Catholic kids). My mind is constantly on the next thing, trying to plan and prepare (and brace myself). 

But first—there’s still more summer! I’m planning on as many more days at the water as we can manage, watching my littlest guy and his big brothers and remembering how much I loved these days when I was their ages. I hope the rest of your August goes as swimmingly as I hope ours does!

Kate and her husband have seven sons ages 20, 18, 17, 15, 13, 11, and 6. She can be reached at kmtowne23@gmail.com.