Back-to-school checkups help put kids on the path to success

A Q&A with Katie Kim, DO, a pediatrician at Methodist Physicians Clinic

While many kids are enjoying summers full of swimming, camps and other activities, many parents and guardians are already looking ahead to the next school year. They’re thinking about school supplies, new clothes and after-school care. Just as important: back-to-school checkups and sports physicals. 

Here’s what they need to know about these important appointments that help kids establish good health habits and start the school year off right.

Why are back-to-school appointments so important?

Back-to-school checkups are a special way to make sure your little one is happy, physically and mentally healthy, and ready to shine all year long! But these appointments are more than just routine checkups. They’re a chance for medical providers to connect with kids and their families, watch children grow and develop, and be part of their journey year after year. Building that ongoing relationship means I get to understand each child’s unique needs and personality, which helps me provide better, more personalized care. 

How often are these appointments necessary? What do parents need to bring?

Back-to-school physicals are typically recommended once a year, usually before the start of each school year. They’re especially important for kids starting preschool, kindergarten, or middle and high school, and anytime they want to join sports or extracurricular activities. Families should bring any updated vaccination records, a list of current medications and any questions or concerns they have about their child’s health or development. If the child has had recent illnesses or specialist visits, bringing those records can be helpful, too. 

What’s a typical appointment look like?

A back-to-school appointment usually includes a full physical exam – checking height, weight, vision, hearing, the heart and lungs, and overall development. I also review the child’s medical history, update vaccinations and discuss any concerns about growth, behavior or learning. I’m especially looking for things that might affect school performance or participation, like vision or hearing problems, asthma, allergies, or signs of stress or anxiety. It’s also a great time to talk about healthy habits like sleep, nutrition and exercise. 

A sports physical focuses on making sure a child is safe and ready to participate in physical activities and sports. I look closely at the heart, lungs, muscles, joints and overall fitness to spot any issues that might increase the risk of injury or illness during sports. I also review their medical history for things like asthma, concussions or previous injuries.

Often, back-to-school and sports physicals can be combined into one appointment, making it more convenient for families.

What vaccinations do you recommend for kids?

Before school starts, it’s important for kids to have their “superhero shots” up to date – like the ones that protect against whooping cough, measles, chickenpox and the flu. Staying on top of these helps protect not only your child but also their friends and family. For detailed immunization recommendations, call your pediatrician’s office or visit the Nebraska or Iowa health and human services department websites.

How important is sleep for kids? How can families prepare for the school year?

Sleep helps with memory, mood and overall health, so good sleep habits and a consistent bedtime routine make a difference in helping kids stay focused, energized and emotionally balanced. If things get a bit lax over the summer, families can start by gradually shifting bedtimes earlier – about 15 minutes every few days – until they reach the ideal schedule. Creating a calming bedtime routine (like reading or quiet time), limiting screen time and keeping the bedroom cozy and dark all help kids wind down and get the restful sleep they need.

What about checking in on a child’s mental health?

Mental health is just as important as physical health. I always check on how a child is feeling emotionally by asking gentle questions to see if they’re feeling stressed, anxious or sad. Catching any worries early helps kids get the support they need to feel happy and confident at home and school.

Do these appointments change as kids get older?

As kids become young adults, the appointments shift to focus more on them – their thoughts, feelings and choices. They become more active in the conversation, asking questions and sharing what matters to them. I pay closer attention to things like mental health, relationships, body changes and new challenges they might be facing. It’s a time to support their independence while making sure they have the tools and confidence to take charge of their own health and succeed. 

Dr. Katie Kim is a pediatrician at Methodist Physicians Clinic with particular interests in female adolescent and newborn care. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kim or another Methodist provider, visit bestcare.org/providers.