Back-to-School Health Guide

As summer break comes to a close and school is almost back in session, back-to-school readiness may be on the forefront of parents’ minds. Preparing your kids for the 2024-2025 school year is more than buying new school supplies, backpacks, and books. Ensuring your children are current on physicals and immunizations and prioritizing their mental health are also important to prepare your students for a happy and healthy school year.

Each year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updates the recommended immunization schedule for all ages, including school-age children. The 2024 schedule contains no major changes from last year, but it’s important to talk to a trusted pediatrician for guidance on what vaccinations are right for your child at their current age.

According to the CDC, depending on age, make sure your child is up to date on vaccines that protect against tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, chickenpox, measles, mumps, rubella, polio, hepatitis A and B, meningitis, and HPV.

• COVID-19 immunization is recommended for children 6 months of age and older. The number of doses depends on your child’s age and type of COVID-19 vaccine used.
• For influenza (flu), the number of doses recommended depends on your child’s age and previous vaccination history.
• A two-dose series of the Human papilloma virus (HPV) immunization should be administered to children beginning at age nine, with the second dose administered at least six months later. A three-shot series is recommended for those with weakened immune systems and those who start the series after their 15th birthdays.
• Meningococcal meningitis immunization is recommended for children between the ages of 11 and 12, with a booster dose at age 16.

Whether your child will be participating in an organized school sport or not, it is recommended that they receive a physical exam by their pediatrician or family doctor to help evaluate their wellness and prevent future illness. These physicals typically involve evaluations of any history of concussion or head injuries, heart health, and mental health. >

Your child’s mental health is just as important as their physical health. For some students, it may be difficult to return to school. The transition from summer vacation to going back to school, or to a new school, may cause some children to have feelings of anxiety, stress, or fear. Others may feel overwhelmed with juggling their academics and extracurricular activities or the need to fit in socially.

Whether your child is experiencing mental health challenges or not, parents and caregivers are encouraged to communicate openly and honestly with your child and listen to their concerns without judgement. Ensuring your child has a strong support system and that they feel comfortable talking with you is key to prioritizing their mental health and getting them any help they may need. Building strong relationships at home and with trusted adults and friends provides kids with a sense of connectedness, which can reduce the likelihood of mental health risks.

With the school year just around the corner, beat the back-to-school rush and schedule your child’s physical with a Kelsey-Seybold provider today!

Disclaimer: If you, your child, or someone you know have thoughts about suicide, seek help right away. If you, your child, or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 – or go to the closest emergency room. If you need counseling services sooner than an appointment can be made and you live in Texas, you can speak with a trained counselor by calling or texting 988 to reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.