Finish the School Year Strong and Keep Kids Healthy for Summer

The end of the school year is busy and exciting. It’s also the perfect time to check in on your child’s health and get ready for a safe, fun summer.

Why End‑of‑Year Checkups Matter

When kids feel well, they learn and play better.

• Yearly checkups help track growth and development
• Providers can update vaccines and sports forms
• You can ask about allergies, asthma, and summer plans

If your child has health coverage, including coverage through Medicaid or CHIP, some of these visits may be covered, but coverage is different for every plan and state. Families should contact their child’s health plan or state Medicaid office to learn what is included. PHNTX has staff members who can help you navigate this often confusing process.

Talk About Feelings, Not Just Fevers

Big changes, like moving to a new grade or school, can feel stressful.

• Ask your child’s provider about mood, sleep, and behavior
• Share any school concerns, like focus or friendships
• Ask where to go if your child needs mental health support

Our pediatric provider can suggest local resources and next steps if your child needs more help.

Get Ready for Summer: Safety First

Summer means more time outside, in the water, and on the go. A few simple habits can prevent many common injuries

Sun safety

• Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30
• Reapply every two hours and after swimming
• Encourage hats, sunglasses, and shade breaks

Water safety

• An adult should always watch children in or near water
• Use life jackets on boats and around open water
• Teach kids never to swim alone

Heat safety

• Offer water often, even when kids are not “thirsty”
• Take breaks indoors or in the shade
• Never leave a child alone in a car, even for a moment

If your child takes daily medicine, ask our provider how heat and extra activity might affect it.

Healthy Habits When School Is Out

Summer schedules are looser, but some routine still helps kids feel their best.

• Keep a regular bedtime and wake‑up time
• Plan daily movement: playing outside, biking, dancing
• Set limits on screen time and build in tech‑free breaks
• Encourage reading a little each day to stay school‑ready

Healthy food and drinks matter too.

• Offer fruits and vegetables at snacks and meals
• Choose water more often than sweet drinks
• Check for free or low‑cost summer meal sites in your community

Local schools, parks, or community groups often share information about summer meals and activities for kids.

Keep Coverage and Care Up to Date

As your child grows, it is important to keep both health care and health coverage current.

Families with Medicaid or CHIP may get letters asking them to confirm their address, income, or family details. This process is often called “renewal” or “redetermination.”

• Open all mail from your health plan or state Medicaid office
• Follow the steps in the letter and respond by the due date
• Use the phone number or website listed in the notice if you have questions

Community health centers and nonprofit groups sometimes have staff who can help families understand forms and connect to support. If you are unsure, ask our pediatric provider for trusted resources.

Pediatric Care at PHNTX

If you are looking for a pediatric home in the Dallas area, PHNTX is here for your family.

Our pediatric team:

• Provides routine checkups, vaccines, and same‑day sick visits
• Supports physical, emotional, and developmental health
• Works with families to create care plans that fit their child’s needs

PHNTX welcomes families with many types of coverage, including Medicaid and CHIP, as well as families who are uninsured. Coverage and costs can vary, so our team can help you understand your options and share information about financial assistance programs that may be available.

As the school year ends and summer begins, this is a great time to schedule your child’s next pediatric visit at PHNTX. Regular care today helps your child feel strong, confident, and ready for the classroom and the playground.