September is a month of new beginnings. Before the first bell rings, a preventive check-up by the pediatrician ensures that the child starts the year healthy and with the necessary documents. Here is a checklist from our practice – pediatrician Thessaloniki and pediatrician Evosmos.
Student Individual Health Record (ADYM)
The ADYM is completed by the pediatrician or general practitioner and is required at enrolment in certain school years in Greece (e.g. kindergarten, 1st and 4th grade of primary school, 1st year of Gymnasio and 1st year of Lykeio – check the current instructions of your school). It includes a clinical examination, growth measurements, blood pressure, vision and hearing checks, a spine check and a record of vaccinations.
Checking vaccinations
This is the right time to check the Child Health Booklet and complete any outstanding vaccinations or booster doses according to the National Immunisation Programme. In autumn we also discuss flu vaccination.
Vision and hearing
Difficulty reading or seeing the board, headaches or “inattention” may be due to a vision or hearing problem. The pediatrician does the basic check and, if needed, refers to a pediatric ophthalmologist or ENT specialist.
Sleep and routine
- Primary school children need about 9–12 hours of sleep, teenagers 8–10 hours.
- Gradually restore the sleep routine 1–2 weeks before school starts.
- No screens for at least an hour before bed.
Breakfast and snacks
A balanced breakfast (e.g. milk or yoghurt, wholegrain cereal, a piece of fruit) improves concentration. For the school snack, choose a home-made sandwich, fruit, nuts (for older children) and water instead of juices and fizzy drinks.
School bag and posture
The school bag should not exceed about 10–15% of the child’s body weight and should be worn with both straps. At the annual check-up we examine the spine for scoliosis.
Book your back-to-school check-up early with Giannis Ritsas, pediatrician Thessaloniki with a practice in Evosmos.
For appointments and information, contact Dr. Giannis Ritsas, pediatrician Thessaloniki and pediatrician Evosmos.