The back-to-school time in Fort Worth can be busy for families with new school supplies, new schedules, and plenty of to-do lists. But while you’re organizing backpacks and calendars, don’t forget to prioritize your child’s health.
At University Urgent Care, we’re here to help make this transition smooth. Here’s a practical health checklist for parents, covering everything from back-to-school physicals to recognizing when to bring your child to urgent care.
1. Schedule a Back-to-School Physical
At University Urgent Care, we aim to facilitate a seamless transition. Here’s a useful health checklist for parents, including items from school physicals to knowing when to take your child to urgent care.
In Texas, the majority of schools mandate that students undergo a yearly physical, particularly those involved in sports or extracurricular programs. These examinations assess your child’s growth, development, vision, and hearing and provide an excellent chance to identify any possible health concerns before they escalate into larger issues.
If your family lacks time, going to a student health clinic like ours provides rapid, convenient care without the extended wait times typical of a standard doctor’s office.
Need a back to school physical in Fort Worth? University Urgent Care offers same-day physicals to get your student cleared and ready.
2. Review Your Child’s Immunization Record
While University Urgent Care does not provide school-required vaccinations, it’s important to make sure your child’s immunizations are current before the school year starts.
If you’re unsure, bring your child’s vaccination record to their physical, our providers can review it and let you know if anything is missing. For required vaccines, contact your pediatrician or visit the Tarrant County Public Health Department.
3. Know the Signs of Common School-Year Illnesses
Once school is back in session, kids are exposed to more germs. Some illnesses are mild and can be treated at home, while others may need medical attention.
Watch for symptoms like:
- Fever lasting more than 24 hours
- Persistent cough or sore throat
- Rash or skin irritation
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Red, itchy eyes
For non-emergency concerns, our team can diagnose and treat your child so they can return to school quickly and safely.
4. Prepare for Fall Allergies
The start of the school year often overlaps with allergy season in Fort Worth. Pollen, mold, and other allergens can make it harder for kids to focus in class.
To help manage symptoms:
- Give antihistamines as recommended by your provider
- Use air purifiers at home
- Have your child shower after outdoor play
- Keep windows closed on high-pollen days
If allergy symptoms worsen or cause breathing problems, pediatric urgent care can provide quick relief.
5. Prioritize Sleep and Mental Health
Summer schedules are often more relaxed, but once school begins, kids need consistent sleep to perform well and stay emotionally balanced.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends:
- 9–12 hours for elementary school students
- 8–10 hours for teens
Watch for signs of poor sleep like irritability, trouble concentrating, or daytime drowsiness. Addressing sleep habits early can help kids start the year strong.
6. Reinforce Good Hygiene Habits
A quick reminder about hygiene can go a long way in preventing illness. Teach your child to:
- Wash hands often
- Avoid sharing drinks or utensils
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Keep personal items clean
Packing tissues and a small hand sanitizer in their backpack is a simple step that can help keep germs at bay.
7. Know When to Visit Urgent Care
Parents often wonder when to choose urgent care over the ER. A good rule of thumb: if it’s not life-threatening, urgent care is usually the better choice. It’s faster, more affordable, and still provides excellent medical care.
Come to University Urgent Care for:
- Fevers
- Minor injuries (cuts, sprains)
- Sore throats
- Rashes
- Allergic reactions
- Cold and flu symptoms
Learn the difference between urgent care and emergency care.
8. Update Emergency Contacts and Medical Records
Before the school year starts, confirm that your child’s emergency contact list, allergy information, and medication details are current. This ensures that school staff can respond appropriately in case of an urgent health situation.
University Urgent Care: Your Partner in Student Health
As a parent, you have a lot to manage, let University Urgent Care help with the medical side of back-to-school prep. From same-day sports and school physicals to treatment for common illnesses during the school year, we make it easy to keep your child healthy.
Conveniently located near TCU in Fort Worth, we’re open 7 days a week with extended evening hours because kids don’t always get sick on schedule.
Start the school year off right schedule your child’s sports or school physical today.