Why June and July Are the Best Months for School Physicals
School’s Out—Now What?
When summer starts, many families shift into vacation mode. But before the back-to-school scramble begins, there’s one important task you’ll want to check off your list early: your child’s school physical.
Whether your child is heading into Kindergarten, 7th grade, or participating in sports, getting their physical and immunizations taken care of in June or July can save you a lot of time, stress, and last-minute surprises.
What Grades Require a Physical?
In Tennessee, well-child exams and updated vaccines are typically required for:
| Grade | Required Forms/Immunizations |
|---|---|
| Preschool/Daycare | Up-to-date immunizations + TN certificate |
| Kindergarten | DTaP, Polio, MMR, Varicella, Hep A + Physical Exam |
| 7th Grade | Tdap booster, Meningococcal vaccine + Updated TN immunization form |
| Student Athletes | Annual sports physical with clearance form |
What Is a School Physical?
A school physical—often called a well child visit, sports physical, or pre-participation physical exam (PPE)—is a routine check-up that ensures your child is healthy, growing properly, and ready for school activities.
At Kids Central Pediatrics, school physicals typically include:
- A full physical exam
- Vision and hearing screening
- Growth and development assessment
- Review of immunization records
- Mental health and behavioral screening
- Clearance for sports participation (if needed)
- Completion of any required school forms
Why Book in June or July?
Here are the top reasons pediatricians—and organized parents—recommend scheduling school physicals early in the summer:
1. ✅ Avoid the August Rush
August is the busiest month of the year for pediatric offices. Appointment slots fill up fast, and same-week availability is rare. Booking in June or July means you get your preferred day, time, and provider without the chaos.
2. 🗂️ Have Forms Ready Before School Starts
Schools often require a Tennessee Immunization Certificate, sports clearance forms, and documentation of a well-child exam. By scheduling early, you’ll have everything ready before orientation or registration day.
3. 🩺 Give Time to Address Health Concerns
Early physicals give your provider time to address anything that might delay school or sports clearance—such as asthma, heart murmurs, vision issues, or the need for a specialist referral.
4. 💉 Catch Up on Vaccinations Without the Wait
Some vaccines are required for Kindergarten and 7th grade. In Tennessee, your child needs up-to-date immunizations to start school. Booking early ensures you have time to catch up on any missed doses or complete multi-dose vaccines like HPV or Hepatitis A.
5. 🧠 Set the Tone for a Healthy School Year
Summer is the perfect time to talk with your child’s pediatrician about sleep routines, screen time habits, mental health, nutrition, and attention issues—before the school routine kicks in.
What to Bring to Your Child’s Appointment:
- Your child’s school or sports physical forms
- Immunization records (we usually have these on file)
- List of current medications
- Questions or concerns about behavior, learning, or development
Schedule Now, Relax Later
Booking your child’s school physical in June or July lets you focus on enjoying the rest of summer—vacations, pool days, and ice cream runs included—without worrying about last-minute appointments.
Ready to Book?
Our pediatricians at Kids Central Pediatrics are now scheduling Kindergarten physicals, 7th-grade immunizations, and sports physicals for June and July.
📅 Appointments fill quickly—schedule today and beat the rush!
👉 Book Online or call your nearest location.
