With just a few days to go before the start of the new academic year, as families step up their preparations for school, children’s health check-ups are also becoming an important part of these preparations. In particular, the early detection of vision and hearing problems, as well as the assessment of children’s growth and development, is of great importance for a healthy start to the academic year.

Dr. Özgül Özbek, a Paediatrician at Medline Adana Hospital, stated that a comprehensive health check-up before the start of the school year would enable the early detection of potential problems, thereby helping children to start the new academic year in good physical and mental health, and offered advice and recommendations to parents.

Vision problems can make it difficult to concentrate on lessons

Good eyesight is essential for children to be able to follow the teacher and the blackboard in class, and to carry out work in books and exercise books with ease. Vision problems may not always be noticed or expressed by children. Symptoms such as difficulty seeing the blackboard, holding a book too close to the eyes, squinting, frequent blinking and recurring headaches are among the signs that should be assessed for potential vision problems. In particular, ensuring that children starting school undergo an eye examination where deemed necessary helps to identify any potential issues before they affect their educational life.

Hearing loss can affect academic achievement

Hearing health is also of great importance in enabling a child to understand what the teacher is saying correctly and to participate in classroom communication. In children, temporary or permanent hearing problems may arise, particularly following recurrent middle ear infections. Symptoms such as turning the television volume up high, frequently asking others to repeat what has been said, giving disinterested answers to questions, or struggling to understand what is being said may indicate a need for a hearing assessment. It is particularly important for children who have previously suffered from frequent ear infections to undergo a hearing assessment before starting school.

A general health check-up is part of preparing for school

A pre-school health assessment should not merely check for the presence of any obvious illness. The child’s height and weight development, eating habits, sleep patterns, physical activity and any existing chronic conditions should also be assessed. It is also important to check whether their vaccinations have been completed in accordance with their age. Where deemed necessary, the physician may arrange for further tests. These assessments will help to identify any undetected health issues at an early stage and contribute to the child having a healthier school experience.

Psychological preparation is also required for settling into school

It is just as important for a child to be psychologically prepared for school as it is for them to be physically ready. Children starting school for the first time, in particular, may experience separation anxiety, sleep disturbances or a fear of school. It is important for parents to establish positive yet realistic communication with their children about school, to listen to their concerns, and to begin establishing a daily sleep and eating routine before school starts.

Pre-school health advice for parents

• Have your child undergo a general health check-up before school starts
• Do not neglect an eye examination if there are any signs of vision problems
• Arrange a hearing assessment if their behaviour suggests a hearing problem
• Check that their vaccinations are up to date
• Adjust their sleep routine to suit school hours
• Ensure they have a regular, balanced and adequate diet
• Listen to your child’s concerns about school and answer their questions patiently