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It’s a simple fact of life that along with the start of school comes the sickies. Especially for the younger ones. I have three kids going back to school this year. A fifth grader (OMG when did that happen), a 2nd grader and one into Kindergarten. My oldest has always had a weak immune system. He’s been hospitalized a few times for pneumonia, bronchitis and valley fever so I take immunizations and his well being very seriously. As I do with my other children but with him I take a little bit of extra caution. All three of my kids will be getting the flu shot. I know it’s a dreaded process for our children but I play the better safe than sorry rule and so far we’ve been one of the lucky families when it comes to the flu (knock on wood). Along with the flu I will making sure they are up to date on the rest of their immunizations. I may not be the typical mom who gets them all done at once because my kids are very sensitive to vaccines, and we have strong allergies in the family,  so we do no more than two at a time and it works for us.

 In preparation for the coming school year I have already started to stock up on much needed supplies. When shopping for wellness items I try to think outside of the box and not just grab a bunch of over the counter medicines. I think what would my kids want if they were down for the count. Jr usually spends a lot of time sleeping while Mantha wants to cuddle. You may spend a little extra money thinking like a kid, at least I do. The first thing I think of is how they may not want to drink or eat so my first thought is to grab some water. Sure, not the most kid friendly form of hydration but it’s the simplest and best way to keep them hydrated when sick. You can purchase the little packets of flavoring and make ice pops with them. They think they’re getting a popsicle and you know they are keeping hydrated. I also came across something new while browsing Walgreens wellness section. Good for you lollipops! Yeah lollipops that aren’t just sugar. They had two varieties, one for sore throats and one chocked full of Vitamin C. I don’t know about you but I think these are fabulous!

Naturally I chose to grab a bag of Vitamin C lollipops. I just couldn’t help myself. I give my kids their daily vitamins but the little extra boost in a kid friendly form is always helpful when your little one’s are sick. Reminds me of getting lollipops at the Dr’s office after a shot as a child. Mantha is notorious for getting really bad chapped lips, especially when sick so I picked up some fun new flavors for her. And at a dollar each you can simply dispose of them to not contaminate them after they are well. Tissues, you can never have a too many nice soft tissues for your wee ones noses. I love that I can pick up a few school supplies to a jump start on my back to school shopping as well.

With school now less then a month away I’ve already made appointments for my kids to get their immunizations and flu shots. Right now until October 14th, when you get a flu shot OR any other immunization at your local Walgreens, Walgreens will provide a life-saving vaccine through the United Nations Foundation’s Shot@Life Campaign. In the Get a Shot, Give a Shot program everyone can help. It’s heartbreaking to know that not everyone is as fortunate to be able to afford healthcare, or even have healthcare as an option.

Walgreens will give up to THREE million vaccines to children that who cannot afford vaccines through the Get a Shot, Give a Shot program. All you need to do is get a shot and Walgreens will take care of the rest. Walgreens accepts most insurance plans and you can verify your coverage prior to your appointment if you are unsure. Even if you don’t have insurance, the services are priced lower than routine doctor office, urgent care, and emergency room. To learn more about this program click here.