Back-to-School Wellness Assessments

by Madelaine Brauner Landry 

It seems like kids just got out of school for summer vacation, but in a blink, the bells will ring again for classes to start. Should parents or caregivers schedule a comprehensive physical exam to assess the overall health of their children before they return to the classroom in the fall? According to Dr. Bryan Karriker of the Children’s Clinic of SWLA, yearly check-ups are important at all ages. They afford both doctor and parents the opportunity to review things such as growth patterns, dietary habits, as well as other issues, like bathroom patterns.  

“This is a chance to review developmental milestones as well as school performance and behavioral issues,” says Karriker. “These things are usually beyond the scope and time allotted for sick visits when we see ill children during the year.  Well-checks in summer, when the sick visit volume is lower, allow extra time to address the above areas, gives us time to visit with families, and to interact with our kids to see how they are doing in all their activities of life. We can then implement plans for any concerns before starting the next academic year.” 

Furthermore, Karriker encourages vision and hearing screens in the summer. While children and parents may claim that their vision and hearing is “fine,” unexpected results could be uncovered during screenings. “This gives us time to address concerns with a specialist before the next school year starts. Summer is also a good time for dental screenings for the same reason,” says Karriker. 

“Personal hygiene is another area to stay on top of during the summer. Evening and bedtime cleaning is good for removing the grit and grim from the day’s activities, as well as any sunscreen or insect repellant applied during the day. Going to bed clean may make for a better night’s rest. Morning bathing is a good way to get alert and ready for the day in our kids who don’t get going so easily in the mornings.” 

And finally, parents are concerned about vaccination requirements. The Children’s Clinic currently recommends the schedule advised by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).  

“We are not currently aware of any scientific studies or data that show direct evidence that would warrant altering the current vaccine schedule. However, I understand some parent’s desire to modify the grouping and timing of certain vaccines. However, complete vaccine refusals are a real medical concern for both the child, as well as other children who could be exposed to an unvaccinated child’s illness.  We are fortunate in this day and age that we currently do not see many of the illnesses prevented by vaccinations, as well as the potentially devastating impacts and outcomes caused by preventable infections. We certainly anticipate an increase in the future risk of exposure to these potentially life-altering illnesses as more of our population continues to be unvaccinated. Additionally, any specific state/school requirements, and their options regarding enrollment, would need to be discussed on an individual case basis with regard to the specific student and school.” 

So, go ahead and schedule a wellness appointment for your child before the dog days of summer are gone and class is back in session.

For more information, visit ccswla.com or call 337-478-6480.