“And mom and dad can hardly wait for school to start again…”—a line from the song It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas captures the mixed emotions of parents during the holidays. But that’s only a two-week break. Now, after more than two months of summer vacation, are you ready for your kids to head back to school? Will their return to the classroom bring smiles or tears for you? And what about for your kids?

As Steamboat Springs residents prepare for the back-to-school season, we turned to McCreight Progressive Dentistry, experts in keeping locals smiling for over 25 years, for tips to ensure that both kids and parents are grinning as they transition into the school year.

One of the most important—and often challenging—things you can do is to reestablish a solid routine. Summer in Steamboat is typically filled with late nights under the stars and early mornings on the trails. While it’s essential to reinstate dental routines, it’s equally important to focus on overall well-being. Dr. Wendy McCreight emphasizes, “We all know that life in Steamboat can be wonderfully active, but a good night’s sleep is essential, especially for growing kids. Beyond getting enough rest to fuel their school day and outdoor adventures, well-rested kids are less likely to indulge in unhealthy snacking, which can harm their teeth, affect their mood and impact their ability to learn.”

Summer in Steamboat is all about endless adventures and late nights, leaving kids so worn out they could fall asleep standing up!

When it comes to school snacks, living in the mountains means we have access to natural, wholesome options. Instead of reaching for sugary snacks or processed “middle-aisle foods” at the grocery store, consider local alternatives. “We have such an amazing farmer’s market in Steamboat that provides fresh and tasty fruits and veggies. What kid from Colorado wouldn’t love to find a snack box filled with Palisade peaches?” says Dr. McCreight. These choices not only support local agriculture but also keep those smiles cavity-free and provide natural energy as the school year gets underway.

Beyond healthy eating, proper hydration is vital, especially at altitude. “Most people understand that the dry mountain air can be tough on our skin, but few think about the importance of proper hydration for oral health. Drinking water throughout the day can actually help wash away bacteria that cause plaque buildup,” Dr. McCreight reminds us. Encourage your kids to carry water bottles throughout the school day, and outside the classroom during outdoor activities like hiking or skiing. Staying hydrated with water—not sugary sodas or energy drinks—is essential for overall health and maintaining bright, healthy smiles.

Why do we keep emphasizing the importance of a healthy smile when returning to the classroom? Beyond looking great in school photos, there’s substantial research showing the power of a simple smile. “Smiling has profound health benefits for both children and adults. It triggers the release of feel-good chemicals in the brain—like endorphins, serotonin and dopamine—that can boost mood, reduce stress and even strengthen the immune system,” explains Dr. McCreight.

If you’re already counting down the minutes until your kids are back in school, you’ll want to do everything in your power to keep them there, minimizing potential sick days. Smiling can play a role in this by boosting the immune system as kids reconvene en masse, increasing the exposure to germs. Studies have shown that smiling can lower blood pressure, enhance endurance and improve overall well-being. So, as your children head back to school, remind them of the importance of a smile—it’s a natural and powerful way to help them feel good, stay positive and navigate the challenges of the new school year.

In Steamboat, kids grow up fast with a spirit of adventure. As they become more independent, it’s important to ensure they take responsibility for their health. Remind them that healthy habits now will allow them to fully enjoy all the outdoor activities Steamboat has to offer and face the school year with confidence, good health and those bright Steamboat smiles.

Our McCreight Progressive Dentistry team welcomes you and your family for the ultimate in attentive dental care!