Back-to-School Checkups: A Maryland Parent’s Guide to a Healthy (and Happy) Start

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New lunchboxes? Check. Fresh crayons? Check. Backpack that’s somehow already stuffed with random papers? Also check.

Before your child heads back to the classroom, there’s one more important item to cross off your to-do list: their annual back-to-school checkup.

Whether your family is part of Montgomery County Public Schools, Howard County, or another awesome Maryland district, many schools require updated physicals and immunizations before kids can start school or join sports teams. But these visits are about so much more than just filling out forms.

What’s a Back-to-School Checkup Anyway?

Back-to-school checkups help make sure your child is growing, feeling good, and ready to take on the year ahead.

Here’s what most checkups include:

• A head-to-toe physical exam

• Immunizations to stay current with Maryland requirements

• Vision and hearing screenings to make sure nothing’s getting in the way of learning

• Help with any medications like inhalers, allergy meds, or ADHD prescriptions

• A friendly chat about things like nutrition, sleep, school stress, and screen time

  
  

And yes, if your child needs a sports form signed or has a question about weird elbow noises, we’re here for that too.

Avoid the Last-Minute Scramble

Maryland schools usually want forms like the Immunization Certificate (Form 896) and sports clearance paperwork turned in before the first bell rings. That means pediatricians’ offices fill up fast as August approaches. Booking early helps you get your preferred time, beat the crowds, and maybe even squeeze in a celebratory ice cream afterward.

A Strong Start Begins with Good Health

These visits may seem small, but they can help set the stage for a great school year. A quick checkup gives your child a boost of confidence and gives you peace of mind that everything’s on track.

If you are not sure what forms your child needs this year, check with your school or your pediatrician’s office. They will help guide you through the process and get your child school-ready in no time.