Getting Ready for Back-to-School? Here Are Five Things to Know

Posted On: 08/03/2026

It’s time to head back to school! There’s often a lot to take care of before classes start, and that can feel overwhelming. These five tips should help you feel more prepared – and less stressed – for the new school year.

Establish a Regular Schedule Before School Starts

Summer is a great time for your children to rest and relax – but the lack of a schedule, including later bedtimes and less-regular meals, can make the transition back to school more difficult. Before the new school year starts, encourage your children to start going to sleep and waking up earlier. Adjusting your child’s sleep schedule now can help them feel calmer and more prepared for the first day – and get their school year started on a good note.

Get Up to Date on Vaccines and Checkups

With limited exceptions, the State of Texas requires all students to get vaccinated before classes begin. Vaccines (shots) help your child stay healthy. They also protect your family and your child’s classmates. Most vaccine requirements start when a child is in kindergarten, with additional vaccines needed as they get older.
Parkland Community Health Plan (PCHP) members can get vaccines during their yearly Texas Health Steps checkup (STAR) or well-child checkup (CHIP). Both checkups and vaccines are available at no cost. Make sure to bring your child’s health records to their appointment, so your doctor knows which shots they need.
Back-to-school is also a good time to schedule your child’s dental and vision checkups. Healthy teeth and clear eyesight help your child feel their best and stay focused in class.
If your child plans to play sports this year, they may need a sports physical. The exam checks your child’s overall health and makes sure it is safe for them to take part in sports or other school activities. PCHP members ages 5 to 19 can get one sports physical per year at no cost. (It is important to know that a sports physical does not replace a well-child checkup.)

Your child’s primary care provider (PCP) can perform sports physicals. Most schools have a required form for them to complete. You’ll need to bring this form with you to the provider’s office. Be sure to fill out the medical history section before your visit.

Discuss Back-to-School Safety with Your Child

Before your child goes back to school, talk to them about safety:

Walking to and from school. While younger children should always be with an adult, all children need to know traffic rules, like only crossing the street at a crosswalk. And as summer turns into fall, there will be less light in the morning – so wearing a backpack or jacket with reflective material can help drivers see your child.
Taking important medications. If your child takes daily medicine, plan ahead so they have what they need at school. Ask your child’s doctor to help you make a written action plan. The plan should list each medication and how to use it. Share it with the school nurse, teachers, and coaches. If your child has asthma or diabetes, our action plan guides can help get you started.
Dealing with bullies. Take a moment to talk with your child about bullying, cyberbullying, and how to stay safe around people they don’t know. Make an action plan together, so they’re ready if problems come up.

A Healthy Diet Is Essential to School Success

Your child’s diet can affect how they do in school. A healthy breakfast can support brain function and mood, and make the whole day go better. Prepare your child to make good lunch choices in the cafeteria by talking about healthy food options and preparing nutritious meals at home.

Get Ready to Have Fun!

As summer comes to an end, it’s normal for kids to feel sad or unsure about going back to school. But there can be a lot to look forward to as well – like seeing old friends, learning new things, and meeting new people.

Questions about your benefits?

Call PCHP Member Services. Our team can help you find a provider, schedule a checkup, or answer other questions about your coverage.