Do not miss back to school health checklist

Important Printable Back to School Health Checklist

This is my 6^th blog on back to school deals and ideas. In this blog you will see health check list for school going kids.

How kids develop language skills, hear sounds and see the world around them can have a profound impact on the way they learn in school and experience life. Some simple checks to ensure they are putting their best foot forward—in addition to those overpriced shoes you were talked into buying—may help in the long run

Getting your child ready in the September for school involves more than just purchasing shiny new school supplies and trendy clothing. It also involves updating your child's immunizations, making appointments for routine screening tests and informing the school of any health issues your child may have. Keep track of everything during this busy time with this handy back-to-school health checklist: 

Check Immunization records

Ensure your child's preschool immunization is completed prior to entering Kindergarten to protect her against vaccine-preventable diseases. The Hepatitis B immunization is provided to Grade 5 students annually and Grade 9 students receive boosters for tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis.

 

Vision screening done

Have your child's vision tested before he starts Kindergarten (ideally by age three) and annually until age 18. As much as 80% of learning is visual, so ensuring children can see properly will help them reach their full potential in the classroom. The cost of eye exams for children up to 18 years of age is covered by Alberta Health.

Approximately 86 per cent of children start school without ever having had an eye examination and a surprising one in four children has an undetected vision problem that can interfere with their ability to read and learn.

If you notice your child holding reading materials too close to his eyes, constantly rubbing his eyes, continuously squinting, or with irritated or teary eyes, it might be time for a visit to an optometrist

 

Hearing/speech screening results

If you suspect your child may have a hearing or speech problem, check with your doctor for a referral to an audiologist and/or speech specialist. An undetected problem could interfere with your child's learning.

Canada’s policy of screening at birth for hearing defects helps identify over 2000 children a year born with hearing loss. Post-natal causes, however, can range from extreme wax build-up to recurrent ear infections, inner-ear abnormalities, family history, prolonged high fevers, meningitis, mumps or measles (to name a few). We hear you. It’s a laundry list of potential hearing impairment suspects

There is a significant link between literacy, language development and learning disabilities so if you have concerns, talk with your child’s teachers right away and source out professionals to get an assessment. If deemed necessary, preventative treatment in the form of speech therapists, occupational therapists and others, can make a big impact. It’s important to note that while we, as parents, often feel scared or embarrassed by a learning disability, children don’t usually feel the same stigma and are much more open to early intervention and guidance.

Dental checkup results

Regular dental checkups should begin by age three. If your child hasn't had her teeth examined prior to starting school, now is a good time for it. Regular checkups and cleanings help detect and prevent dental problems early.

Emergency contacts name

Make sure the school has up-to-date emergency numbers, including contact information for parents, physicians, etc.

Health conditions (allergies)

Ensure the school has up-to-date information about any physical impairments or medical conditions your child may have, including allergies. Also inform the school about any medications your child takes.

 

Backpack basics

Your child's backpack should fit properly and shouldn't be too heavy for him to carry. It shouldn't be more than 10% to 15% of his body weight and should have broad shoulder straps and a waist strap that keeps the bag firmly on the spine. Watch for warning signs that the bag may be too heavy to carry such as sore shoulders or changes in posture.

Nutrition plan

Ensure your child has a healthy breakfast before heading to school in the mornings, and help her pack a nutritious lunch. Planning meals ahead of time and involving children in planning and preparation can make this task more manageable and fun.