Why back-to-school physicals matter for kids’ health and success

Putting your child’s health first with a timely school physical sets them up for success — physically, mentally and emotionally.

A physical is more than just a general head-to-toe exam. It also includes an update of vaccinations and screenings for vision, hearing, development and mental health.

For many children, an annual physical may be their only appointment with a doctor. It’s also the perfect time for a parent to address any health, learning or developmental concerns.

Here are some things families should know about this important visit:

Who should have back-to-school checkups?

Any child participating in school, daycare or early education programs can benefit from a physical.

Call your pediatrician as soon as possible to book the visit, ideally when the previous school year ends. This allows ample time to address:

• Developmental concerns
• ADHD or learning evaluations
• Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 plan requests to the school

These items may take several visits to further evaluate your child and review information from you or their educators before making a treatment plan or recommendations.

If you haven’t established care with a pediatrician, don’t worry. UChicago Medicine Medical Group* offers same-week availability in multiple locations across Chicagoland. Schedule your appointment online or by calling 888-824-0200.

What is included in a back-to-school evaluation?

Beyond performing a physical exam, your child’s doctor will also ask questions about their ongoing medical conditions, past medical history, growth and development.

Details include:

• Height, weight and body mass index (BMI)
• Nutrition, exercise and sleep habits
• Outdoor play and ways to reduce screen time
• Vision and hearing screenings (a specialist referral may be recommended if any concerns are detected)

What are back-to-school checkups like for teen patients?

These visits offer a chance for adolescents to ask questions, share concerns and take responsibility for their health.

The physician may also ask family to leave the room for a moment so the teen may ask more sensitive questions confidentially.

Topics may include:

• Sexual health and screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Use of alcohol, vaping or nicotine products or other illicit substances
• Feelings of anxiety, depressed mood or other mental health concerns

The goal is to offer a safe space for open conversations and to support healthy decision-making.

What if I have concerns about my child’s emotions or behavior?

Please let your child’s doctor know at the visit. Pediatricians also screen for emotional or behavioral issues, such as anxiety, worry about parent or peer relationships, sadness or loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, or even anger or emotional lability.

They can refer families to counseling or mental health specialists as needed.

What should I bring to my child’s annual physical exam?

For a smoother appointment, don’t forget to bring:

• Required school forms, including sports clearance forms, asthma or allergy action plans
• Medication administration forms (if needed)
• Immunization records
• A list of current medications and dosages, especially if you are establishing care with a new doctor

What else should I keep in mind for a back-to-school checkup with my child’s doctor?

Remember, even if your child’s school doesn’t require a physical, don’t skip the visit! It is important to be proactive when it comes to your child’s health.

The annual back-to-school visit helps promote safety and disease prevention. And don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your doctor is happy to address them.

*Dr. Kazlauskas is a UChicago Medicine Medical Group provider. UChicago Medicine Medical Group comprises UCM Medical Group, Inc., f/k/a UCM Care Network Medical Group, Inc., and UCM Medical Group Sub, LLC f/k/a Primary Healthcare Associates, S.C. UChicago Medicine Medical Group providers are not employees or agents of the University of Chicago Medical Center, or the University of Chicago, UChicago Medicine Ingalls Memorial.