With the school year underway, now is the ideal time to schedule an appointment with a pediatrician for your child’s annual physical. Physicals are often mandated for students who want to take part in sports and other extracurricular activities, but the benefits of a physical exam go beyond just meeting participation requirements. Here’s a closer look at some key benefits.

3 Reasons Children Should Have a Yearly Physical

1. Monitor Your Child's Health

During a physical exam, a pediatrician will establish a baseline for your child's heath. This way, they’ll be able to tell if something is out of the ordinary or if a child has symptoms that are in any way unusual. Remember—not all illnesses exhibit obvious signs, and a physical is a way to monitor a child's health from one visit to the next. A physical also starts a record of a child's medical history, which will be an important part of their overall health and wellness plan as they grow up.

2. Learn Healthy Habits

At a physical, a pediatrician will usually discuss with a child the significance of a healthy lifestyle, thereby making the child a more proactive part of their own health. They’ll start to see connections between the choices they make and their overall well-being. The doctor can explain how to choose nutritious foods, the importance of limiting sweets and other junk foods, and the benefits of regular exercise and fresh air. Starting a new school year is the perfect opportunity to start implementing some of these healthy lifestyle changes.

3. Understand Bodily Changes & Development

As children grow up, their bodies and brains mature. Because they have no template for these experiences, changes can be new and scary, and a child may not fully understand what's happening within their own body. This can lead to confusion, anxiety, and a lot of questions. A physical is a chance for a child to talk to a medical professional and get a better idea of what's happening as they grow up. A pediatrician will answer questions and dispense information and advice in an accessible way that empowers children to be involved in their own health and welfare.

When your child is ready for their yearly physical, trust Mante Pediatrics. Dr. Ebenezer Mante is a pediatrician who treats young patients throughout the Chester County, SC, area. His pediatric care services include yearly and sports physicals, vaccines, and allergy evaluations. Schedule an appointment by calling (803) 385-2075 or learn more about the practice on their website.