The school year will be here before we know it!

While families are busy buying backpacks and notebooks, it’s just as important to make sure your child’s health is ready for the year ahead. At South Tabor Family Physicians, our team of compassionate health care providers is here to help your child start strong—physically, emotionally, and socially.

Why Back-to-School Health Checks Matter

A yearly well-child visit is more than a routine exam. It’s a chance to:

• Track your child’s growth and development over time
• Address questions about nutrition, sleep, and screen time
• Review mental and emotional well-being
• Ensure they’re meeting age-appropriate milestones
• Catch potential health concerns early

Scheduling ahead of the rush means you’ll have plenty of time to complete any follow-up appointments, forms, or immunizations before the first day of school.

Your Back-to-School Health Checklist

Here are five important steps to help set your child up for a healthy school year:

1. Schedule a Physical Exam
This is the perfect time to review your child’s growth, vision, hearing, and developmental progress. It’s also when we can address any questions you might have about learning, behavior, or physical activity.
2. Update Immunizations
Vaccines protect your child and the school community from preventable illnesses. Check Oregon’s school vaccine requirements and make sure your child is up to date.
3. Support Mental & Emotional Health
Talk about what your child is looking forward to—and what they might be nervous about. New routines, social changes, and academic expectations can be stressful. A well-child visit is a great opportunity to share these concerns with your provider.
4. Re-establish Healthy Routines
Start adjusting bedtimes and wake-up times a few weeks before school starts. Build in time for a healthy breakfast, outdoor play, and homework so the new schedule feels natural.
5. Prepare for Special Health Needs
If your child has asthma, allergies, or other chronic conditions, update their care plan and share it with the school nurse. Make sure all medications are labeled and up to date.

Your Partner in Pediatric Care

At South Tabor Family Physicians, we take pride in being a trusted resource for families in the Portland area. Our pediatric services cover everything from routine wellness visits to managing ongoing health concerns. We listen, we care, and we work with you to keep your child healthy—because a great school year starts with great health.

📍 Conveniently located right off I-205 — we’re here to make your visits simple and stress-free. Get to know our providers here.

Helpful External Resources

• Oregon Health Authority – School Immunization Requirements
• CDC – Back-to-School Health Tips