Back-to-School Health Checklist: A Parent’s Guide to a Smooth Start
August 1, 2025
The first day of school brings fresh backpacks, sharpened pencils, and new routines — but it’s also the perfect time to make sure your child is starting the year healthy and ready to learn. A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to your child’s well-being.
Here’s a simple back-to-school health checklist to help your family ease into the school year with confidence.
1. Schedule a Well-Child Visit
Before the homework starts piling up, book your child’s annual checkup. This is the best time to:
- Make sure immunizations are up to date
- Discuss any concerns about sleep, nutrition, or behavior
- Get vision and hearing checked — key for learning in the classroom
2. Update School Health Records
Double-check that the school has the latest information on:
- Emergency contacts
- Allergies and medical conditions
- Medications and authorization forms (including inhalers or EpiPens)
If your child has a care plan for asthma, ADHD, or any chronic condition, now’s the time to make sure it’s current and shared with school staff.
3. Reinforce Healthy Habits at Home
It’s not just about hand sanitizer, though that helps! Start practicing these routines:
- Washing hands before meals and after using the bathroom
- Covering coughs and sneezes with elbows
- Keeping fingers away from the face
Teaching these habits now helps prevent common colds and flu from spreading later.
4. Reset Sleep Schedules
Summer bedtime habits don’t always match the school bell. Ease your child into a school-friendly sleep routine by:
- Moving bedtime earlier in 15-minute increments
- Creating a wind-down routine (no screens at least 30 minutes before bed)
- Aiming for consistent wake-up times, even on weekends
Rested kids focus better and stay healthier.
5. Fuel with a Balanced Breakfast
Mornings can be rushed, but skipping breakfast makes it harder for kids to concentrate and focus. Try quick, nutritious options like:
- Hard-boiled eggs and fruit
- Greek yogurt with granola
- Whole grain toast with nut butter
A good breakfast gives your child the energy they need to start strong.
6. Talk About Mental Health
New classrooms and social situations can be exciting — but also overwhelming. Ask open-ended questions about how your child feels going back to school, and let them know it’s okay to talk about stress or worries.
If anxiety, mood changes, or withdrawal persist, reach out to your pediatrician. Mental health is just as important as physical health.
Starting school with a clean bill of health helps your child stay focused, confident, and ready for success. Use this checklist as your go-to prep guide — and don’t hesitate to reach out to our office with questions or to schedule your child’s back-to-school visit.
At Holly Springs Pediatrics, we’re here to support your family’s health all year round. If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s skin, give us a call. We’re happy to help you find the best ways to keep your little one comfortable and healthy this season.
Holly Springs Pediatrics is committed to providing quality care to your kids at all times on a wide array of subjects. For more information or to get in contact with our office, call (919) 249-4700 to schedule an appointment.