Back-to-school isn’t just about school supplies, first day outfits and haircuts. Appointments need to be scheduled and everyone needs to be on the same page when it comes to the health of your child.
Vaccines: Before starting school, all children need to present their immunization card. The child’s pediatrician, as well as the school nurse, can answer any questions you may have regarding what vaccines are due at what age. Most vaccines are completed prior to kindergarten, and boosters are given in middle school. Annually, the American Academy of Pediatrics also recommends a flu shot.
Vision: One out of 20 kids are unable to see clearly (WebMD.com). While many schools do vision screenings during the school year, it is important to be screened prior to the school year by the child’s doctor or ophthalmologist. A child is constantly growing and changing, and his eyes are no different. Through the course of the school year a child could go from having 20/20 vision to needing glasses. A child who is unable to clearly read the information presented to him will have a difficult time learning (WebMD.com).
Allergy: If your child is one of the many who suffer from an allergy, develop an action plan and discuss it with the child’s teacher, as well as any other pertinent staff, such as the school nurse. In addition, discuss this plan with your child and make sure he feels comfortable acting out the plan. If the allergy requires an epi-pen, check the expiration date and give it to the person responsible for administering it (EmergencyCareForYou.org).
Important information: The information a child should know is dependent on his age. With age in mind, all children should be able to state their name, parent’s name, a phone number, as well as general school information, such as what grade they are in and their teacher’s name. If the child does not have this information memorized, write it down in a location the child can find easily if needed.
Anxiety: A new school, new teacher or different classmates all can have a positive or negative effect on the new school year. Answering questions and listening to concerns can ease any anxiety your youngster may be feeling.
Nothing is more important than your child’s health, and checking a few things off the list prior to the school year’s beginning can save lots of time and frustration in the future.
Jessica Heine is a labor and delivery nurse. She lives in Olathe with her family.