Seattle Children’s
School is finally out, and it will start back up before you know it! If your young athlete’s school or club team requires a sports physical before participation, get ahead of the game by scheduling the exam now. This exam is different from a yearly well-child checkup. It includes sports-related questions and evaluations to make sure your young athlete is ready to compete safely.
It’s best to make your child’s sports physical appointment for about 6 weeks before the season starts. This will allow time for more tests or follow-up visits, if needed. Remember to bring your school district or team forms along to the appointment and your child can be ready to jump into the action right when their season starts.
Summer is also a great time to be sure your child has had all the immunizations required to attend school in the fall. Many families fell behind on routine vaccinations during the pandemic. Talk with your child’s doctor or healthcare provider to learn if your child is current and how to catch up if necessary.
Vaccines prevent diseases that can make children very sick, cause lifelong disabilities and even death. They prevent diseases by making the body resist them. This helps your child stay well and also helps protect others by limiting the spread of disease. Vaccines help your family and your community!
