Online and in the shops...

PICK-ME-UPS: Rescue Remedy pastilles are a tasty way for parents and students to cope on the first day of school.

Packaged in an easy-to-open tin, they contain the original blend formulated by Dr Bach nearly 100 years ago and are available in blackcurrant and orange and elderflower flavours, €8.50.

Younger children might prefer orange-flavoured Rescue Gummy Stars which are suitable for age two and over, €5.99; www.nelsonsnaturalworld.com

SMART OIL

Omega 3 fatty acids have several benefits, including contributing to optimal brain, vision, joint and heart health. Many studies have shown that taken daily, Omega 3s help to boost memory and concentration.

As our bodies can’t make these essential nutrients and most of us are unlikely to get enough from dietary sources like oily fish, many people start taking a supplement containing these brain-boosting fats at this time of year.

Cleanmarine Citrus Burst, €19.99 is a high-strength Omega 3 krill oil liquid, which is on a ‘buy one get one free’ offer for August. Suitable for all the family, it’s an option for anyone who has trouble swallowing capsules.

Each 10ml serving also has 100% recommended daily intake of Vitamin D3. Another benefit of krill oil is that it doesn’t have the ‘fishy’ aftertaste associated with other fish oil supplements.

Cleanmarine also makes small Krill Oil capsules for children, €9.99 for 60.

www.cleanmarine.ie

RELAXATION AID

Another useful remedy at this time of year is Jan De Vries Child Essence, €4.85. This combination of flower remedies has been put together to help children (two years and older) to relax, increase in confidence and adjust to new situations.

Depending on age, take three to five drops in a little water, up to three times daily; www.avogel.ie

NATURAL BOOST

Vivioptal Junior is an orange-flavoured syrup that contains 12 essential vitamins and seven trace minerals for children aged one and over.

It can provide a little extra support for those times when kids have a high nutritional requirement such as back to school and during the winter months.

Vivioptal Junior does not contain artificial colours, lactose, yeast, egg or peanut oil and is available from pharmacies, €9.95 for 250ml; www.scopehealthcare.ie