Val Verde RMC | Keeping Well | Summer/Verano 2019

Back-to- school time is checkup time Call today Call VVRMC’s Pediatric Clinic at 830-282-6020 to make an appointment with a pediatrician today! Pediatrics/Pediatría Y OUR KID’S biggest back-to-school worry might be what to wear on that all-important first day. But as a parent, you have a few more crucial to- dos to help your child be healthy and ready to go when the first bell rings. Before the school year starts, it’s a good idea to set up two key doctor visits: A wellness checkup. Kids and teens need a yearly wellness exam to help them stay healthy. During this checkup, the provider may: ■■ Check for health issues like diabetes, anemia, obesity and depression. ■■ Discuss healthy habits, like eating well and exercising, with you and your child. ■■ Answer any questions teens may have about issues such as drinking and smoking. ■■ Update your child’s vaccines for protection from serious diseases. (Many states require proof of these before your child can enroll in school.) ■■ Talk about sports-specific issues, like how to avoid injuries. ■■ Do a vision screening and refer your child to an eye doctor if needed. A dental checkup. Regular visits to the dentist help keep teeth healthy and strong. Your child will get a cleaning and advice about brushing and flossing to promote a fabulous smile. And if you schedule a checkup before school starts, the dentist can find and treat any problems beforehand so that your child won’t miss any class. Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics; American Dental Association 6 Keeping Well/Mantenerse Sano