Helpful Reminders

It's that time of year already! There are many things to consider when you send your child off to school. Sometimes the details are overwhelming: Not only are there supplies to be bought, but certain dress restrictions and health issues to consider as well. Consider the following as a checklist to help you get your child ready. Please use this as a guide only – every school is different so we suggest you call first.

1. Dress restrictions? According to the Illinois Board of Education, most schools have policies regarding clothing, to eliminate inappropriate symbols, help reduce incidents of violence and create an environment conducive to education.

2. Physical exams are required if students are:

• transferring from out-of-state or another country
• entering kindergarten or first grade
• entering the fifth grade; or
• entering the ninth grade; and
• may be required if your child participates in athletics

3. Lead screening is required for children six years and younger

4. Immunizations needed?

• at 4-6 years – Mumps/Measles/Rubella (MMR) , Polio and Diphtheria/tetanus/pertussis boosters
• at 11-12 years – Hepatitis B (if not vaccinated as an infant), Tetanus/diphtheria, MMR (if not vaccinated at age 4-6 ), chickenpox (susceptible children only)
• 14-16 years – Tetanus/diphtheria booster
• Hepatitis A – varies on location, call your health care provider

For a complete immunization schedule from birth to age 16, visit the Illinois Department of Health site.

5. Hearing exams are required:

• at preschool age, kindergarten, 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd grades

6. Vision exams are required:

• at preschool age, kindergarten, 2^nd and 8^th grades

7. Dental exams are not required by law, but are highly recommended.

Typically students can go to their family physician or one of the local Department of Public Health clinics. Illinois Department of Public Health clinics provide the following services for a nominal fee or for free based on need:

• immunizations
• physical exams
• hearing tests (except city of Chicago)
• vision tests (except city of Chicago)

The Chicago Public School system provides on-site hearing and vision testing at all schools. Please call the CPS Hearing and Vision Department at (773) 553-1884 for more information.

Other school systems may offer hearing and vision testing as well. Check with your school. None of the IDPH clinics provide dental exams.

To find a clinic closest to you please click here.

8. School supplies. No one wants to send their child to school without the right tools. Please be aware that each school may have its own supply lists - call first. In addition, as safety has become more of an issue, check with your school about their policy concerning backpacks.

Here's a general list to help get you started (again, call your school for more specifics):