If your child is expected to attend summer camp, or school sports, of any kind, you’ll have to get them a camp physical before the first day. Getting a camp physical may just seem like a hassle, but it actually serves an essential purpose for your child and the other people at the camp. Check out these 3 reasons why camp physicals aren’t something you can skip!

Check Current Health Status through a sport physical

A camp physical will include reviewing your child’s current health status to determine if the camp is safe for them. The physician will check vaccination records and catch them up if they’re behind on any. You should review the activity plans for camp with your child’s pediatrician and make sure they think your child is up to it. There should be a medical staff of some sort on-site at your child’s camp, but it won’t be a fully functioning emergency room setting. If the pediatrician is concerned about your child’s current health status, take those concerns very seriously.

Discuss pre-existing Conditions during the physical

A camp physical is a perfect time to review your child’s pre-existing conditions. The physician should be able to recommend tips to keep those pre-existing activities from interfering with the child’s time at camp. If your child suffers from asthma, allergies, or any other chronic conditions, don’t forget to get their prescriptions refilled before you leave the doctor! When your child arrives at camp, share these pre-existing conditions and medications will the on-site medical staff to establish an open line of communication.

Safe Training and Self Care Skills

Finally, the pediatrician will help your child to learn safe training tips. They will tell them how to stretch and prepare before exercise and use proper form during each activity. If your child is attending a sports-specific camp, be sure to let the pediatrician know! Encourage your child to share all of the safe training tips they learn with others after they arrive at camp.

Getting a camp physical is as easy as making a trip to an urgent care center or walk-in clinic. It doesn’t take long at all, and most camp physicals are very affordable for a short preventive exam. Summer should be a fun and exciting time for you and your child, but it also needs to be a safe time. A camp physical is the best way to prepare your child for a day, night, or a few weeks away at camp!