As the school year continues to come up quickly on the calendar, it’s time to get youth in for their school physical. 

Dallas County Health Department Public Information Officer Ann Cochran says school screenings should include a vision and dental exam. Cochran mentions another important piece of wellness for youth. 

“Another important thing is that families should talk now with their student, and again in the coming weeks of the school year, about feelings and stress. Conversation starters could be, if you feel nervous tell me so we can work it out or speak up if something is upsetting you so that we can work through it.”

Cochran tells Raccoon Valley Radio these are important topics to talk about with students because while it is stressful for adults to carry on their normal activities during a pandemic it’s also stressful for youth as they head back to school. 

“Even very young children soak up those feelings of stress and anxiety that is within their family and so it’s important to let children know to talk it out, let me know we can help you if we know about it but we won’t be able to help you if you don’t say something.”

Cochran says families should not neglect getting their children to their physicals just because the pandemic is still ongoing.