Kids should see doctor before starting School

The summer is slipping away, and soon it will be time to get children ready for school. The start of school means some youngsters will need school physicals. Parents will also have to show proof that their youngster has received all immunizations required by state law. Participation in school-sponsored sports also may require an examination. This physical examination is not just a school requirement. It provides physicians with the opportunity to evaluate a child's well-being and certify that the youngster is healthy enough to attend school or play sports. In addition, it gives parents the chance to ask questions about nutrition, growth and development. Here are some pointers for parents: Prepare the child. Before the exam, explain what will happen and answer any concerns the child might have. Most children see a physician only when they are sick, so they might not understand why they are going to the physician when they are well. It is natural for them to be anxious; reassure them that you will be there the entire time. Never threaten a child with "If you do not behave, the physician will give you a shot. Terrified kids make poor patients. How to prepare a child for the possibility of an injection depends on the youngster, but whatever you say, never lie. Most children have already been told by their friends that they are going to get immunizations, so be honest if the child asks. Update immunizations. It has probably been a while since the child has had any immunizations. Because many serious illnesses have become rare thanks to available vaccines, parents sometimes become lax about keeping their child's inoculations current. If a child has received immunizations elsewhere, parents should get these records before the child's visit. For questions about immunizations, please see our Vaccine Guide or our article School Immunization Requirements Vaccines your child will receive at the pre-school checkup   a dose of DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus and accelluar pertussis) a dose of IPV (inactivated polio) a dose of MMR (Measles, mumps and rubella) a dose of Varicella (Chickenpox) * assuming they are up-to-date prior to the checkup Have questions ready. The exam provides parents with the opportunity to ask questions about their child's health. Make a list and take it to the physician's office. Is his speech okay? Does she need vitamins? When will his appetite pickup? Should I expect any more ear infections? Is his weight okay? If the youngster had problems last year in preschool, ask for suggestions to alleviate any problem areas before school starts. Know what tests are required. A blood pressure check, urinalysis, skin test for tuberculosis and blood test for anemia are required in all physical exams. Although most of these tests reveal no health problems, they can uncover serious problems that could go unrecognized for a long time. Take your child to the dentist. A preschool checkup will reveal any problems, from cavities to unsightly teeth, that could detract from school performance. Any necessary dental treatment could get underway so the child would miss as little school as possible. Every year, some children are denied admission to school or cannot participate in sports because their parents waited too long before getting their youngster a physical. August is a hectic month in most physicians' offices, so parents should make appointments now. The early school years are a critical time of development, and it is important that parents know that their youngster is in peak condition, ready to begin school. updated 07-07-07

As a reminder, this information should not be relied on as medical advice and is not intended to replace the advice of your child’s pediatrician. Please read our full disclaimer.