Back-to-School Health Checklist: What Every Parent Should Know Before the First Day

Prepare your child for a healthy school year with this back-to-school checklist from Miami Pediatrics, including vaccines, physicals, sleep tips, and more.

The first day of school is just around the corner! As you check off items like backpacks, notebooks, and lunchboxes, don’t forget the most important preparation of all — your child’s health.

At Miami Pediatrics, we help families in South Florida start the school year strong with a comprehensive approach to back-to-school wellness. Whether your child is entering kindergarten or high school, here’s what every parent should know to keep them healthy, confident, and classroom-ready.

Back-to-School Pediatric Health Checklist

1. Schedule Your Child’s Annual Wellness Exam

A yearly physical ensures your child is growing and developing properly, and it gives you the chance to:

• Track height, weight, and body mass index (BMI)

• Check vision, hearing, and blood pressure

• Review nutrition, mental health, sleep, and exercise habits

• Ask age-specific health questions

• Complete any required school or sports forms

Tip: Schedule this appointment early in August — these spots fill up fast!

2. Make Sure Vaccinations Are Up to Date

Schools in Florida require proof of certain vaccinations. At your child’s check-up, your pediatrician will review:

• DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis)

• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)

• Varicella (Chickenpox)

• Polio

• Hepatitis A and B

• Meningococcal and HPV (for older children and teens)

• Tdap booster (required for 7th grade)

Pro Tip: Ask us for an updated Florida DH 680 form to submit to your child’s school or daycare.

3. Reinstate a Healthy Sleep Routine

Long summer nights can wreak havoc on sleep schedules. To help your child feel energized and focused:

• Gradually adjust bedtime 1 week before school starts

• Set a consistent wake-up time, even on weekends

• Keep screens out of the bedroom at night

• Create a calming wind-down routine (bath, book, dim lights)

Most school-aged kids need 9–12 hours of sleep per night.

4. Don’t Forget Dental and Vision Checkups

Many parents overlook eye and dental health — but these can significantly impact school performance.

• Schedule a comprehensive eye exam (especially if your child squints, gets headaches, or sits too close to the TV)

• Book a dental cleaning and checkup every 6 months

• Pack a reusable water bottle and avoid sugary drinks to protect teeth

5. Check In on Emotional and Mental Health

School can be exciting — but also stressful. Signs your child may need extra support:

• Sudden changes in appetite or sleep

• Frequent headaches or stomachaches with no clear cause

• Avoidance of school or social situations

• Excessive worry or irritability

If you’re concerned, we can recommend a child psychologist or counselor and support you in creating a safe, open dialogue at home.

6. Create a Healthy Eating Plan

Start the year with smart habits:

• Plan balanced lunches with protein, whole grains, fruits, and veggies

• Limit processed snacks and sugary treats

• Offer healthy breakfasts (e.g., yogurt + fruit, whole grain toast + eggs)

• Make water the go-to beverage

Don’t skip breakfast! A well-fed child learns better and stays focused longer.

7. Pack Smart and Practice Backpack Safety

• Choose a backpack with wide, padded straps

• Ensure it doesn’t weigh more than 10–15% of your child’s weight

• Encourage kids to use both straps, not just one shoulder

• Regularly clean and declutter backpacks to avoid strain

8. Review Hygiene Habits to Prevent Illness

Help your child stay healthy in crowded classrooms:

• Teach proper handwashing (especially before lunch and after bathroom use)

• Remind them to cover coughs and sneezes

• Pack hand sanitizer and tissues in their backpack

• Keep kids home when they’re sick, especially with fever or vomiting

Let Miami Pediatrics Help You Prepare

Starting school is a milestone — and we’re here to help you make it smooth and stress-free. Whether your child needs vaccines, a sports physical, emotional support, or just a little encouragement, our team is ready.

Schedule your child’s back-to-school physical today, and let’s set them up for a healthy, successful year. Call us at (305) 868-5181 or visit https://www.MiamiPediatrics.com