Why Your Child Needs a GP Visit Before Starting School?

Key Takeaways

• Health checks support school readiness
• Developmental concerns can be identified early
• Hearing and vision affect learning outcomes
• Immunisations are reviewed before school
• Ongoing GP care supports long-term wellbeing

Starting school is a major milestone for children and parents alike. New routines, new environments and new expectations can be exciting, but they can also be challenging. In Australia, one of the most important yet often overlooked steps before the first day of school is a visit to the GP. Many parents assume that if their child seems healthy, there’s no real need for a check-up. In reality, a pre-school GP visit offers a wide range of benefits that can set your child up for a smoother and healthier start to school life.

Below are the key reasons why a GP visit before starting school is so important.

Checking Overall Growth and Development

A GP visit allows your child’s growth and development to be reviewed in a structured way. Even small concerns can be picked up early.

• Monitoring height, weight and growth patterns
• Assessing physical development and coordination
• Identifying delays that may need further support

Early detection means early intervention, which can make a significant difference once school begins.

Ensuring Immunisations Are Up to Date

Schools and childcare settings in Australia have strict childhood immunisation requirements to protect all children.

• Confirming vaccinations meet state and federal guidelines
• Providing catch-up immunisations if needed
• Issuing immunisation history statements for enrolment

Up-to-date immunisations help keep your child, their classmates, and the wider community safe.

Identifying Vision and Hearing Issues

Vision and hearing problems are not always obvious at home, but can significantly affect learning in the classroom.

• Screening for hearing loss in children or frequent ear infections
• Checking vision clarity and eye coordination
• Referring to specialists if concerns are found

Addressing these issues early can prevent learning difficulties and frustration at school.

Assessing Emotional and Behavioural Readiness

Starting school isn’t just about academic readiness; emotional wellbeing plays a big role.

• Discussing social skills and emotional regulation
• Identifying signs of childhood anxiety, attention difficulties or behavioural concerns
• Offering strategies to support school transitions

A GP can guide parents on whether additional support may be helpful.

Managing Chronic Health Conditions

Children with ongoing health issues benefit greatly from a school-ready health plan.

• Reviewing asthma, allergies or eczema management
• Updating action plans for schools and carers
• Ensuring medications and instructions are clear

This preparation helps schools respond quickly and safely if issues arise.

Supporting Sleep, Nutrition and Energy Levels

Healthy routines are essential for school success, and a GP can provide practical advice.

• Discussing sleep patterns and bedtime routines
• Reviewing diet, lunchbox choices and hydration
• Addressing fatigue or low energy concerns

Good sleep and nutrition directly impact learning, concentration and behaviour.

Detecting Speech and Language Concerns

Communication skills are key to classroom participation and social interaction.

• Assessing speech clarity and language development
• Identifying difficulties with understanding instructions
• Referring to speech pathologists when needed

Early support can improve confidence and classroom engagement.

Guidance for Parents on School Health Expectations

A GP visit is also an opportunity for parents to ask questions and prepare themselves.

• Understanding common school illnesses and prevention
• Learning when to keep children home from school
• Clarifying health policies and medical forms

This knowledge helps parents feel more confident and organised.

Building a Positive Relationship with Healthcare

A GP visit before school helps children become comfortable with healthcare settings.

• Reduces anxiety about doctor visits
• Encourages children to talk about their health
• Establishes a trusted healthcare relationship

This positive experience can benefit them well into adulthood.

Supporting Long-Term Health and Learning Outcomes

Preventive healthcare plays a major role in long-term wellbeing.

• Encourages early intervention and ongoing monitoring
• Reduces school disruptions due to health issues
• Supports better learning and social outcomes

Children who start school healthy and supported are more likely to thrive academically and emotionally.

School Readiness and Child Health Care at Harbour Town Doctors

Harbour Town Doctors provides high-quality, patient-focused medical care for individuals and families within the local community. The practice is committed to continuity of care, clinical excellence, and clear communication, ensuring patients receive consistent support at every stage of life. Services are delivered in a professional, respectful environment, with a strong emphasis on preventive health and long-term wellbeing.

What patients value at Harbour Town Doctors:

• Experienced general practitioners offering personalised care
• Women’s health, antenatal, and family services
• Chronic disease management and preventive health plans
• Mental health support in a confidential setting
• Convenient appointment access with ongoing GP care for childhood immunisations service

Harbour Town Doctors remains dedicated to providing reliable, evidence-based healthcare tailored to individual needs.

Conclusion

A GP visit before starting school is a proactive step that supports a child’s physical health, development, and emotional wellbeing. From developmental screening to preventive care, this early check provides reassurance for parents and a strong foundation for learning. To prepare your child for a healthy start to school, contact us to book a pre-school GP appointment and ensure ongoing support throughout the school years.

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