Schedule health check-ups early

Don’t wait until the last minute! Book important child health appointments now to beat the back-to-school rush.

Immunizations and well-child visits:

• Immunizations protect your child and their classmates from preventable illnesses like chickenpox and measles. In Washington State, children entering school, childcare, or other early learning programs must get certain vaccinations before they can start. For more information on required vaccinations, visit: https://doh.wa.gov/community-and-environment/schools/immunization/families

Annual well-child checkups help make sure your child is growing and developing normally. These visits also allow doctors to catch potential issues early and keep your child on track for a healthy school year.

• Sports physicals: If your child plans to join a school sports team, most schools require a physical exam. Book these appointments early to avoid the rush.
• Eye exams: Most classroom learning, including reading, writing, seeing the board, and using computers, depends on clear vision. If your child hasn’t had a recent eye exam, now’s a good time to schedule one.

Did you know?

Most health insurance plans, including Apple Health (Medicaid), cover immunizations, well-child visits, and children’s eye exams at no cost to you. Check with your child’s health plan or doctor to confirm.

Plan your back-to-school budget

Getting ready for school doesn’t have to be expensive. Look into local resources:

• School supplies: Many public school districts in Washington, including Kent, Lakewood, and Walla Walla, provide basic classroom supplies. Local nonprofits and community fairs also host free school supply drives. Check local listings and your school district.

• School lunches: Depending on your income, your child may qualify for free or reduced-price meals. You can search (and apply) for free meals by school district on the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction website. Healthy meals help kids focus and learn.
• Clothing: Some community organizations have programs that provide new school clothes for children in need. One example is Assistance League, which has chapters in Bellingham, Seattle, Everett, Southwest Washington, East King County that offer vouchers to buy clothes and other back-to-school items. You can also find affordable outfits at thrift stores and clothing closets.

For more tips, check out our Healthy & Affordable Summer Be Well article.

Did you know?

Washington 211 is a free phone and online service that connects people in Washington with local help, including for clothing and school supplies.

• Call: Dial 2-1-1
• Text: Text your ZIP code to 898211
• Online: Use the resource directory at wa211.org

Make the most of summer’s end

Enjoy the last days of summer. Take advantage of no- or low-cost family fun before school begins.

• Free museum and park passes: Many libraries—like Spokane County, King County, and Pierce County— offer free passes to museums and parks—perfect for family outings.

Some also take part in the Check Out Washington program, where you can borrow Discover Passes to visit Washington State Parks and public lands for free.

• Stay active: Keep your kids moving with free or low-cost recreation programs.
  For example, Seattle Parks and Recreation offers numerous youth sports and activity programs year-round for kids while Yakima Parks and Recreation hosts free summer events like outdoor movies and concerts.

Call your local city or county parks and recreation department for current programs and any associated costs.

For more information on community resources, read our Be Well article from last year: Your guide to a healthy and affordable summer.

Managing stress together

Changes can be stressful. After weeks of summer fun, kids face homework, new teachers, and the pressure of making friends and fitting in.

The best support? Talk with them. Ask them how they feel and how you can help. Listening and going through the change together can make a big difference.

Check out HealthyChildren.org, the official parenting website of the American Academy of Pediatrics, for more back-to-school tips for families.

Bottom line: Preparation, patience, and a little planning go a long way toward a smooth back-to-school season.

Here’s to a healthy, happy start to the school year!