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10 Before your children get on the bus for their first day, ensure they are ready for the school-year routine by following these tips: • Rethink summer schedules. Summertime can mean lax rules about bedtime and sleeping in. However, getting enough sleep is essential for kids to do well academically. Two to three weeks before school starts, begin transitioning to a school-appropriate schedule so that the first day isn't a difficult adjustment. Talk with children about the transition between summer and school, and remind them about the good parts of going back to school — including seeing old friends, getting involved in extracurricular activities, and learning new things. • Choose backpacks carefully. Often filled with notebooks, textbooks, and your child's other school supplies, backpacks can place a heavy burden on your child. Your child's backpack should have wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back. Encourage your child to always use both shoulder straps. The American Academy of Pediatrics states that a backpack should never weigh more than 20 percent of your child's body weight. • Get up to date. Most schools require a complete vaccination record before your child is allowed to attend class. Ask your child's pediatrician to review your child's health record to ensure your child has had all required vaccinations. Your pediatrician can also talk with you about any concerns you have regarding vaccinations. • Get physical. If your child plays sports, you may need a physical on file from a physician before your child takes the field. These physicals check for any limitations or abnormalities that could make sports dangerous. Even if your child is not involved in athletics, a yearly well visit allows your pediatrician to discuss any pressing health concerns, as well as update your child's information. ALON TOWN CENTRE 11503 NW Military Highway, Suite 113 San Antonio, TX 78231 210.705.5151 CHILDREN FIRST PEDIATRICS 8627 Cinnamon Creek Drive, Building 1 San Antonio, TX 78240 210.641.5437 NORTHWEST PEDIATRICS 7007 Bandera Road, Suite 19 San Antonio, TX 78238 210.680.6000 TEJAS PEDIATRICS 20642 Stone Oak Parkway San Antonio, TX 78258 210.479.3000 Our Newest Location Opening September 1, 2015 ALAMO RANCH 11355 Alamo Ranch Parkway, Suite 203 San Antonio, TX 78253 Our pediatricians can provide the immunization or physical your child needs. Call 1.877.250.DOCS to find a pediatrician in your area. The Children's Hospital of San Antonio Physician Group is committed to providing comprehensive health care for children ages 0 to 17. With four locations, and a new facility opening in Alamo Ranch in September, you can find the quality care you need close to home. Services include: • prenatal consultations • well-child visits • treatment of minor injuries and illnesses • vaccinations and immunizations • preventive health care • school and sports physicals • hearing and vision screening Now is the time to start thinking about back-to-school preparation for your children. Better Health Before the Bell The Children's Hospital of San Antonio has a Pediatric Primary Care Clinic in downtown San Antonio. Call 210.704.4966 for an appointment. D i d Y o u K n o w ? YEAR-ROUND CARE BEYOND THE SCHOOL NURSE Forever First | Summer 2015 • To find a physician, call 1.877.250.DOCS. For more information, visit chofsa.org/physiciangroup.