As the summer break comes to a close and our community begins to prepare for the upcoming school year, the to-do list grows longer with new responsibilities. Amidst the back-to-school shopping for supplies and new clothes, don’t forget about the most important part of your child’s preparation: their health! To ensure a successful and healthy start to the 2023 school year, this blog will help guide you by providing a comprehensive back-to-school health checklist!
For same-day back-to-school health services, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Lakewood. Our board-certified medical providers specialize in pediatric and student healthcare. We provide a range of services– including physicals, vaccinations, and health guidance, all on a walk-in basis. Just stop in today or reserve your spot online!
Get a School and Sports Physical
Before your child dives into their studies and sports activities, it’s crucial to get their school and sports physical! These exams help identify any potential health concerns that could affect their performance and overall well-being. A school physical is a comprehensive checkup that covers aspects like weight, height, vision, hearing, and more. Similarly, sports physicals ensure that your child is physically fit and ready to safely participate in any athletic endeavor. These physicals not only serve as a preventive measure to detect any underlying health issues, but also provide an opportunity to discuss any concerns with a certified healthcare professional.
Some topics you may consider discussing with your provider include:
- Sleeping or eating habits
- Overall physical development
- Mental health
- Necessary vaccinations
- Sports injury prevention
- Additional preventive care recommendations
Update Your Child’s Immunizations
Immunizations play a crucial role in preventing the spread of contagious diseases within schools and communities. Many schools generally require a list of updated vaccinations before the school year. Check with your healthcare provider to ensure your child is up-to-date on all required vaccinations. It’s important to stay informed about any new immunization recommendations that may be relevant for your child’s age group. Vaccines not only safeguard your child’s health, but also protect the overall health and safety of your larger community.
Common school immunizations you may need include:
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B
- Influenza (Flu Shot)
- Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine (MCV)
Discuss Health Goals & Hygiene
The back-to-school season is a perfect time to have a conversation about health goals and hygiene practices with your child. Consider discussing the importance of maintaining a balanced diet, staying active, and getting adequate sleep. Encourage your child to set realistic health goals for the upcoming school year– whether it’s a new sport, hobby, or making healthier food choices. Be sure to remind your child about the importance of regular hand washing to prevent the spread of germs. Explain the proper way to cover coughs and sneezes, and encourage them to use hand sanitizers when soap and water may be unavailable.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Lakewood For Your Back-to-School Health Needs!
As the back-to-school excitement builds up, be sure to not overlook the important health checklist for your child. By getting a school and sports physical, updating their vaccinations, and discussing health goals, you’ll be able to set them up for success. Looking for an all-in-one stop for back-to-school health services? Look no further than AFC Urgent Care Lakewood! Our healthcare professionals can provide all of this and more on a walk-in basis. The clinic is open seven days a week for added convenience. If you have any additional questions about the school health services we provide, please call us directly at (303) 988-3600.
