Heading back to school means more than new backpacks and fresh notebooks—it’s also the perfect time for parents to ensure their child’s health is in top shape. From routine exams to lifestyle checks, use this comprehensive checklist to prepare your student for a successful, healthy school year.
1. Schedule Routine Physical Exams
- Annual Well-Child Visit: Even if your child appears healthy, an annual check-up with the pediatrician or family physician can catch growth or developmental concerns early.
- Sports Physical: Required by many California schools for participation in athletics. Schedule this well before the season begins to avoid last-minute holds.
- Chronic Condition Follow-Up: If your child has asthma, diabetes, ADHD, or another ongoing issue, plan specialist visits or medication reviews at least four weeks before classes resume.
2. Update Immunizations (California Requirements)
California law mandates up-to-date immunizations for all students entering public or private schools, including transitional kindergarten through grade 12. Parents must submit an official California School Immunization Record (CDPH-286 form) or an approved exemption.
Transitional Kindergarten through 6th Grade:
- DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) – 5 doses (4 if the last was after age 4)
- IPV (Polio) – 4 doses (3 if the last was after age 4)
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) – 2 doses, first at ≥ 12 months
- Varicella (Chickenpox) – 2 doses, first at ≥ 12 months
- Hepatitis B – 3 doses
7th Grade Entry:
All of the above, plus:
- Tdap booster – 1 dose on or after 10th birthday
- Meningococcal conjugate (MenACWY) – 1 dose at ages 11–12; second dose for 13–18-year-olds if the first was before age 16
Exemptions:
- Medical: Requires physician’s note
- Personal Belief or Religious: Submit CDPH 286A or 286B form
California schools will exclude students who lack documentation by the first day of attendance, so plan immunizations several weeks in advance to allow for scheduling and record processing.
3. Vision and Hearing Screenings
- Vision Test: Undiagnosed vision issues can impair learning. Have an optometrist or pediatrician assess acuity and binocular vision.
- Hearing Check: Especially important for younger students or those with a history of ear infections.
4. Dental Appointment
- Biannual Cleaning: Schedule a dental exam and cleaning to prevent cavities and gum disease.
- Orthodontic Evaluation: Tweens and teens may need a visit to determine if braces or retainers are recommended.
Dr. Kritika Carrazana of Moonflower Dentistry adds:
“Starting the school year with a healthy smile sets the tone for confident learning! A back-to-school dental visit is the perfect way to catch cavities early, check that everything’s developing just right, and refresh those at-home brushing routines. We want every child walking into the classroom ready to learn, laugh—and show off that bright, happy smile!”
5. Allergy and Asthma Management
- Allergy Action Plan: For seasonal or food allergies, confirm triggers and review the school’s policy. Provide necessary medications and up-to-date plans to staff.
- Asthma Review: Update inhaler prescriptions, check spacer functionality, and submit an Asthma Action Plan to the nurse’s office.
6. Mental Health Check-In
- Emotional Well-Being: Discuss academic or social pressures. If concerns arise, consult a counselor or child psychologist.
- Sleep Routine: Establish consistent bedtimes—9–11 hours for school-aged children, 8–10 hours for teens—to support focus and emotional resilience.
7. Nutrition and Hydration
- Healthy Meal Planning: Reinforce breakfast routines and pack balanced lunches with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
- Water Bottle: Encourage carrying a reusable water bottle and drinking water throughout the day.
8. Backpack Safety
- Weight Check: Backpacks should weigh no more than 10–15% of your child’s body weight.
- Proper Fit: Adjust straps so the pack sits high on the back and ensure both shoulder straps are used to distribute weight evenly.
9. Sun and Skin Protection
- Sunscreen: Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ before outdoor activities; send extras if allowed.
- Protective Gear: Hats and UV-blocking sunglasses for recess or field trips.
10. Emergency and Contact Updates
- Health Forms: Return all school health forms promptly with updated emergency contacts, insurance details, and medication authorizations.
- Medication Supplies: Provide labeled, in-school doses of any daily medications and check expiration dates.
A Pediatrician’s Perspective
Dr. Benjamin Berthet, a pediatrician with Salinas Valley Health, offers this advice:
“As a pediatrician, I know returning to school can be stressful, so check in with children to see how they are feeling about it. Feeling some anxiety and stress can be normal, but it shouldn’t be overwhelming.”
He adds:
“Family dinner time can be a great time to all come together at the end of the day and let everyone share how they are doing, what they are looking forward to, what they liked or did not like during the day.”
By checking off the items on this health checklist, you’ll help your child step into the classroom with confidence, resilience, and the wellness they need to thrive all year long.
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