Your Child's Health: A Back-to-School Checklist for Parents

As the new school year approaches, parents are swamped with tasks like buying supplies and adjusting routines. Amidst the chaos, health checks often get sidelined.

While Henry County Hospital conducts health check-ups for children during the school year, parents should also take the initiative to look after their child's health. Before starting a new academic year, it's essential to perform routine health screenings to ensure your child is in good shape.

Why Health Checks for Kids Are Important

Skipping a health check can expose your child to various risks, especially in a school environment that's a breeding ground for germs. Undetected issues like poor vision, hearing problems, or even chronic conditions like asthma can negatively impact your child's academic performance and overall well-being.

At-home health checks should never be a substitute for comprehensive health assessments with a licensed physician; however, they can help parents stay ahead of any potential health issues.

How to Check Your Child’s Health at Home

Vision Test

What You'll Need: A Snellen chart (A unique chart used by eye doctors to test vision. It has rows of letters that get smaller as you go down the chart and can be printed off at home.)

1. Hang the Snellen chart on a wall at eye level.
2. Have your child stand 20 feet away from the chart.
3. Ask them to read the letters from top to bottom.
4. Note any struggle or squinting.

Hearing Test

What You'll Need: A quiet room

1. Stand behind your child, out of their line of sight.
2. Whisper a series of words or numbers.
3. Ask them to repeat what they heard.
4. If they struggle, consider a professional hearing test.

Temperature Check

What You'll Need: A digital thermometer

1. Place the thermometer under the tongue or armpit.
2. Wait for the beep and note the temperature.
3. A consistently high reading may indicate an underlying issue.

Respiratory Check

What You'll Need: A stethoscope

1. Place the stethoscope on the chest and back.
2. Listen for wheezing, crackling, or other abnormal sounds.
3. If you notice irregularities, consult a healthcare provider.

Skin Check

1. Examine your child's skin for rashes, unusual moles, or persistent itchiness.
2. If you find anything concerning, schedule a check-up with your doctor.

Preventing Health Risks Throughout the Year

It's crucial to stress prevention in the home environment and beyond. Here are a few tips:

• Frequently have conversations with your child about their health.
• Encourage regular handwashing with soap and water.
• Implement healthy eating habits with sufficient vitamins and minerals for proper growth and development.
• Make sure your child gets enough physical activity and sleep.
• Ensure their vaccinations are up-to-date.
• Schedule regular check-ups at Henry County Hospital.

By performing these simple checks and following our tips, you're taking a proactive step in ensuring your child's health and well-being for the upcoming school year. For more comprehensive tests and vaccinations, be sure to consult your healthcare provider!

Schedule a Well Child Check with Henry County Hospital Today

At Henry County Hospital, we prioritize your child's health and its impact on their academic success. That's why we provide thorough Well Child Checks to ensure your child's optimal health before the school year starts!

These check-ups are not just limited to the start of the academic year. We continue to provide these services all year round, ensuring your child receives consistent care. Rely on us for your child's continued health and wellness throughout the year.

Take the first step in protecting your child's health and schedule an appointment with your local Henry County Hospital. We look forward to seeing you soon!