Why Summer is the Smartest Time for Your Child's Well Visit

Summer sunshine. Fewer school obligations. A bit more breathing room.

'Tis the season for popsicles and playtime, but did you know this summer is also the perfect time to prioritize your child’s health with a well-child visit? While many families wait until the August back-to-school rush, we wanted to give you a pro-tip (so there's one less thing you have to do when we all blink and August is here):

Schedule well-child visits for this summer!

Well Visits: More Than Just Immunizations

We know the word “check-up” often brings to mind shots – and yes, vaccines are a critical part of keeping your child healthy and protected. But a well-child visit is about so much more than immunizations.

Here’s what we do during a well-child appointment in addition to updating immunizations:

• Track Growth & Development
  Every child is unique, but there are important milestones they should be hitting. During their visit, we’ll check height, weight, and BMI, and evaluate cognitive, emotional, and physical development.
  This helps us spot potential issues early and when they’re most treatable and prevent issues from ever arising.
• Monitor Mental and Emotional Health
  Health isn’t just physical. Your child’s mental well-being and behavior matters, too. We take time to talk with you and your child about how they’re feeling emotionally, their behavior, sleep, school experiences, and more. Summer is the perfect time to ask our providers about managing common issues like trouble sleeping, meltdowns when electronics are taken away, or having to tell your child multiple times to do something. Our team can help you navigate these things while you’re not having to worry about homework, dinner, baths, and bedtime all after a day of hard work.
• Vision, Hearing & Physical Exams
  Undiagnosed vision or hearing issues can hold a child back in school. Early detection can mean the difference between a tough school year and a thriving one.
• Talk About Nutrition, Sleep, and Safety
  We provide guidance on everything from screen time to sunscreen, from balanced diets to bedtime routines. Your child’s habits now shape their health for years to come.
• Prep for School & Sports
  Getting school, camp, or sports forms filled out? We’ve got you covered. Coming in over the summer means you won’t be scrambling for last-minute paperwork in August.

Avoid the Rush – and the Stress

August is our busiest time of year, and appointments fill up fast. Booking a well-child visit in early summer gives you greater flexibility in scheduling. Plus, you won’t have to worry about taking care of a school note.

When you come in early:

• You get greater flexibility in scheduling
• You don’t have to worry about a school note
• You check off one big item from your back-to-school list early! Go you!

Ready to Schedule?

Start ensuring your child has a healthy, happy start to the next school year now and thank yourself later!

Call us today at (504) 533-4999 or email scheduling@bchsnola.org to book your summer well visit.

Because well-child visits aren’t just a checkbox. They’re a chance to give your child a strong foundation for the year ahead – and beyond.