Annual Checkups and Physicals
One of the most important steps in back-to-school preparation is scheduling an annual checkup. Regular checkups monitor your child’s growth and development. This makes sure they are on track and helps identify potential health issues early. During these checkups, our healthcare providers also offer valuable advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including tips on nutrition, exercise, and mental well-being. Our health centers provides physical exams that include:
Vision and Hearing Tests
Early detection of vision or hearing problems can prevent academic struggles.
Growth and Development Assessments
Tracking your child’s growth patterns and developmental milestones such as height and weight helps in identifying any concerns.
Health Screenings
Routine checks for conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses.
Schedule a Back to School Annual Exam
Appointments become more booked up closer to the start of the school year, so please schedule in advance to make sure your child is prepared for a healthy start. Visit our website to learn more about our offerings or find a convenient location near you! You can also call 800-343-1577 to schedule an appointment directly.
Vaccinations: A Shield Against Illness
Vaccinations play an important role in protecting your child and the community from various preventable diseases. Vaccines are a safe and effective way to prevent outbreaks of contagious diseases in school settings, contributing to a healthier environment for all students. Making sure your child’s immunizations are up to date before the school year starts is essential. Our community health centers provide these vaccinations and can help you keep track of your child’s immunization schedule. Common vaccines required for school-aged children include:
- Flu
- Pneumonia
- Hepatitis
- Measles
- Mumps
- Rubella
- HPV
- Shingles
- COVID-19
Vaccines are available by appointment. Scheduling your appointments early will help you be prepared and avoid the last-minute rush. Find a location near you or call 800-343-1577 to schedule your appointment today.
Smart and Healthy Lunch Choices
Nutrition and what your child eats significantly impacts their ability to learn and grow. Packing a nutritious lunch can help maintain energy levels and concentration throughout the school day. Our health center offers nutritional counseling to help families plan balanced meals and snacks that meet their child’s dietary needs. Here are some tips for creating balanced, healthy lunches:
Include a Variety of Food Groups
Aim for a mix of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein. For example, a lunch might include a turkey and cheese whole grain sandwich, carrot sticks, an apple, and a yogurt.
Choose Healthier Snacks and Drinks for Better Energy
Opt for water or various types of milk instead of sugary sodas or juice drinks, and select healthier snack options like nuts, seeds, or whole-grain crackers.
Involve Your Child
Letting children help with lunch preparation can encourage them to make healthier choices and develop good eating habits.
Important Tips for a Successful School Year
Beyond medical checkups and healthy eating, there are several important tips to make sure your child has a successful school year. Here are three essential tips:
Establish a Routine
Consistent daily routines help children feel secure and manage their time effectively. “A child who knows what to expect will feel less anxious and be better prepared to cope with unfamiliar settings or stressful situations.” Set regular times for waking up, meals, homework, and bedtime. A good night’s sleep is of utmost importance, and the amount of sleep needed varies by age. According to the CDC and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, here are the recommended hours of sleep per day for children and adolescents:
- Ages 6–12 years: 9 to 12 hours
- Ages 13–18 years: 8 to 10 hours
Encourage Physical Activity
Regular exercise boosts physical and mental health. Encourage your child to participate in sports, dance, or even just active play with friends. Physical activity helps reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance focus.
Promote Mental Wellness
A positive mindset and emotional well-being are key to academic success. Encourage open communication with your child about their feelings and experiences. Teach them stress management techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness exercises. Our health centers also provide resources and support for mental health, including counseling services.
Supporting Families Year-Round
A new school year brings new opportunities for learning, growth, and development. By prioritizing your child’s health and wellness, you are setting them up for success both in and out of the classroom. From scheduling annual checkups and keeping vaccinations up to date, to packing healthy lunches and establishing routines, our community health centers are here to support you every step of the way. We are also here to support your family throughout the entire year. We offer a wide range of services in eight Central Texas locations, including:
Chronic Disease Management
Support for children with conditions like asthma or diabetes.
Behavioral/Mental Health Services
Counseling and mental health support for children and families.
Dental Care
Regular checkups and cleanings to maintain oral health.
We invite you to visit us for your back-to-school health needs and take advantage of the services and resources we offer. Together, we can ensure a healthy, happy, and successful school year for your child. For more information visit our website or to schedule an appointment, please call 800-343-1577 and our friendly staff will get you booked in!
References:
Benefits of Establishing a Daily Routine – Effective School Solutions. (n.d.). https://www.effectiveschoolsolutions.com/daily-routine/
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . (2019). Sleep and Health. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/healthyschools/sleep.htm
U.S. Department of Agriculture. (2020). What is myplate? Www.myplate.gov; U.S. Department of Agriculture. https://www.myplate.gov/eat-healthy/what-is-myplate
