If your child is just about to start school for the first time, then you may be surprised to learn that they also need to schedule a physical with their doctor before the school year even begins. Physicals are also necessary before children start playing team sports or engage in physical activity. Many schools make physicals mandatory so you must schedule your child’s appointment weeks before the start of the school year.

What is the purpose of a school physical?

Everyone from doctors to school administrators wants to make sure that all students are healthy enough for activities and sports, and we all know that anyone’s health can change rapidly from year to year. Since children are growing quickly and going through a ton of developmental milestones, these physicals are a great way for our pediatricians to monitor your child’s development. This gives them time to pinpoint and address any problems that may be affecting them physically, mentally, behaviorally, or emotionally.

Another reason parents should bring their children in for annual physicals is to make sure that their children are up to date on their vaccines. Not only do vaccines protect your child from several potentially dangerous communicable diseases, but it can also help stop the spread to protect other children as well.

Is a school physical the same as a well-child visit or a sports physical?

Yes, these are just different names for the same checkup, so don’t think that your child needs to come in three different types for the same type of visit. Each appointment will be tailored to suit your child’s needs. For example, if your child is looking to play sports, we will emphasize a physical exam that may be a bit more intensive to make sure that they are healthy enough for certain physical activities.

We can also provide you with detailed information as well as answer any specific questions you may have about your child’s diet, sleep, exercise routine, and more. Write down any questions you may have and bring those questions with you to your child’s physical.

The sooner you schedule your child’s physical the better. You don’t want to wait until the last minute for them to see their doctor. A routine physical is simple, easy, and painless, plus it ensures that your child starts the year out on the right foot!