How To Make the Most of Your Child’s Back-to-School Physical

DATE

July 22, 2025

How To Make the Most of Your Child’s Back-to-School Physical

A back-to-school physical might seem like just another box to check before the first day of class — but it can be much more. At Hereford Health Clinic, we encourage families to use this annual visit as a real opportunity to ask questions, track growth, and get ahead of any health issues before the school year picks up steam.

Here’s how to turn a routine appointment into a smarter, more meaningful check-in with your child’s health.

Bring Questions, Not Just Paperwork

A school form might be what brought you in — but don’t stop there. Come with questions about anything that’s been on your mind:

Is my child’s sleep schedule healthy?

Are they meeting developmental or emotional milestones?

How can I support their nutrition or mental health this year?

A back-to-school physical is your chance to have a real conversation with a provider who knows your child — and can help you plan ahead.

Talk About Screen Time, Stress, and Social Media

Kids today are growing up in a digital world, and their health visits should reflect that. A good provider will take time to ask about more than just physical health — they’ll check in on mental wellness, screen habits, and emotional support systems, especially for preteens and teens.

Check In on Chronic Conditions or Medications

If your child has asthma, allergies, ADHD, or takes regular medications, this is a perfect time to review their care plan and make sure school staff will have what they need to support them. An updated physical helps prevent miscommunication and missed doses down the road.

Get Sports Clearance Done at the Same Time

If your child plans to participate in athletics, you can check off both the general wellness and required Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation (PPE) in one visit. You’ll save time, and your child’s provider will already have the full picture of their health.

Get Support Tailored to Your Family

Whether you have a kindergartener who’s nervous about starting school, a middle schooler working through emotional changes, or a high schooler trying to juggle sports and schoolwork — the back-to-school physical is an opportunity to get real, personalized guidance.

“This annual checkup is one of the best preventive tools we have. It’s a chance for families to talk openly, get ahead of problems, and make sure kids are physically and emotionally ready to succeed,” said Candice R. Smith, MSN, RHCNOC, CCRN, RACR, Chief Executive Officer at Hereford Regional Medical Center.

Your Next Step:

Don’t wait until school is already in session. Call today to schedule your child’s back-to-school physical and get the guidance, clearance, and peace of mind you need for the year ahead.