Tips to help make sure your child is safe and ready
Schools all across Northeast Georgia are opening now or in the next few days. No matter what grade your child is starting, here are some important tips for back to school.
Schedule a wellness visit
Set up an appointment with your child's pediatrician or your family practitioner for a back-to-school check-up. These check-ups help make sure your child is well, assist in managing any chronic conditions they might have, and provide an opportunity for you to get your questions answered. Your provider can also make sure your child is up to date on all required vaccinations, and can recommend ways to boost your child's health, safety and development.
Need a provider?
St. Mary's Hometown Pediatrics provides care to children and teens of all ages. In addition, our family practitioners provide care to the whole family, including children. Call (706) 769-0005 to schedule a new patient appointment today.
Vaccinate older children against COVID
The CDC has authorized the COVID vaccine for children ages 6 months and up. Vaccination offers safe, proven protection against COVID and especially against serious illness and death. Vaccination offers the best protection for the individual and, ultimately, the entire community. COVID vaccine is available at Hometown Pediatrics for ages 6 months to 11 years. They are also available for other ages at multiple other St Mary’s Medical Group practices as well as your local health department and local pharmacies.
Other suggestions for parents
We asked several experts what else parents can do during this back-to-school season. Here are their top responses:
- Don't delay annual checkups and vaccinations
- Prioritize exercise and physical activity
- Maintain good, balanced nutrition habits
- Create and stick to a routine
- Monitor and limit screen time
- Focus on mental health and reducing stress
- Prioritize your own health: schedule a wellness visit with your doctor