With the school supply list checked off and kids settling into their back-to-school routine, now would be a good time to schedule the annual checkup, if you haven’t already.

An annual visit to your family physician around the beginning of the school year gives the physician, parent and child a chance to talk. As a parent, questions to ask a physician might include:

• Are my child’s immunizations up to date?

• Should my child have a flu shot?

• What signs should I look for that would signal any emotional issues my child could have with school?

“It is also important to let the physician know about any recent illnesses and of any known problems from the previous school years,” said Thomas Freytag, M.D., a family physician from Lima, Ohio.

Children may have issues such as the fear of entering a new grade or school and getting along with classmates. Your child will also complete a physical exam and may receive advice on eating well and exercising.

“To make sure there are no unknown barriers to learning, especially at a younger age, I actually prefer to see my patients, unless they are just starting into school, after they have attended for a month or so. This gives me time to address problems that may be occurring with classes, peers, social issues or problems with sporting activities,” Freytag said.

It is recommended that along with a check-up, student athletes get a sport physical so that their bodies are prepared for the fall sports season.

According to Freytag, ankle, knee, shoulder and the summer heat-related illness are the most common school sports-related injuries. At least one month of conditioning is ideal to prevent injuries before beginning a new sport or starting a new season.

Returning to school can be challenging and it may take time to create a new routine for the family but Freytag suggests to “simply keep the lines of communication open. Let them (your children) know that you are willing to listen. Try to set a nightly routine on school nights ensuring adequate sleep. And, most importantly, create a schedule that includes some family time.”

The Ohio Academy of Family Physicians suggests these tips to follow throughout the school year:

• Incorporate healthier snack and lunch items into your child’s diet. Be a good role model by keeping and eating healthy foods in your home.

• Educate your child on the role good nutrition plays in their overall well-being.

• Make sure your child eats a healthy breakfast before getting on the bus.

• Encourage your child to be physically active, whether in an organized sport, taking walks around the block or playing baseball in the backyard.

• Set a good example. Exercise regularly yourself or with your child.

Source: www.kidsource.com (KidSource Online)

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