Back to School – By Dr. Medhat Abu Shaaban Pediatrician in Dubai

As the summer holidays draw to a close and the new academic year approaches, parents across Dubai begin the important task of preparing their children for the return to school. While purchasing new uniforms, school supplies, and backpacks often takes center stage, ensuring your child’s health is optimally prepared for school is equally, if not more, important. As a pediatrician serving families throughout Dubai and the UAE, I have seen firsthand how proper health preparation can make a significant difference in a child’s academic success, social development, and overall well-being throughout the school year. At myPediaClinic, we are dedicated to helping families navigate the back-to-school season with comprehensive health guidance and support.

The transition from the relaxed schedule of summer to the structured routine of school can be challenging for children of all ages. Changes in sleep patterns, increased exposure to illness-causing pathogens in classroom settings, academic pressures, and social dynamics all play a role in your child’s school experience. By taking proactive steps to address health concerns before school begins, you can set your child up for a successful and healthy academic year. This comprehensive guide covers everything from essential vaccinations and health screenings to nutrition, sleep, illness prevention, and mental health considerations. Whether your child is starting kindergarten for the first time or entering their final years of secondary school, this information will help you ensure they are ready to thrive.

The Importance of a Back-to-School Health Checkup

A back-to-school health checkup is one of the most valuable investments you can make in your child’s academic success. This comprehensive evaluation provides an opportunity to assess your child’s overall health, identify any issues that may affect their learning or participation in school activities, and ensure they are up to date on vaccinations and screenings.

What a Back-to-School Checkup Includes

A thorough back-to-school checkup at myPediaClinic includes a complete physical examination assessing growth, development, and overall health. The pediatrician will review your child’s medical history and any chronic conditions that may need management during the school year. Vision and hearing screenings are performed to identify any issues that could affect learning. Vaccination status is reviewed and updated as needed. The checkup also provides an opportunity to discuss any concerns about your child’s behavior, development, sleep, nutrition, or mental health. For children participating in sports, this visit can also fulfill requirements for sports physicals.

When to Schedule the Checkup

Ideally, back-to-school checkups should be scheduled several weeks before school starts. This allows time for any necessary follow-up appointments, obtaining glasses if vision problems are identified, scheduling vaccinations if needed, and addressing any concerns that arise during the examination. In Dubai, where many international schools have specific health requirements and deadlines for submitting health records, early scheduling is particularly important. Many families find that scheduling the checkup in late July or early August works well for the September school start.

Preparing for the Checkup

To make the most of your child’s back-to-school checkup, come prepared with your child’s vaccination records and previous health records if available. Make a list of any concerns or questions you want to discuss with the pediatrician. Note any changes in your child’s health, behavior, or development over the summer. If your child takes any medications, bring a list including dosages. Involving your child in the process by explaining what to expect can help reduce anxiety about the visit, especially for younger children or those who are apprehensive about doctor’s appointments.

Essential Vaccinations for School-Age Children

Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to protect your child from serious infectious diseases. Schools bring children into close contact with one another, creating opportunities for diseases to spread. Ensuring your child is fully vaccinated not only protects them but also contributes to community immunity, protecting those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons.

Understanding the UAE Vaccination Schedule

The United Arab Emirates has a comprehensive childhood vaccination program that includes vaccines against diseases such as hepatitis B, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b, pneumococcal disease, rotavirus, measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (chickenpox). The schedule begins at birth and continues through adolescence, with booster doses given at specific ages to maintain immunity. At myPediaClinic, we follow the UAE Ministry of Health vaccination schedule and can help ensure your child is up to date on all recommended vaccines.

Key Vaccines for School Entry and Continuation

Several vaccines are particularly important at school entry age (around 4-6 years). These include booster doses of DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis), IPV (polio), and MMR (measles, mumps, rubella). The varicella vaccine is also given if not previously administered or if a second dose is due. For children entering middle school or early adolescence, additional vaccines become important, including Tdap (teenage booster for tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis), meningococcal vaccine, and HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine. Annual influenza vaccination is also recommended for all children over 6 months of age, with the optimal time being early fall before flu season begins.

Addressing Vaccine Concerns

Some parents have questions or concerns about vaccines. At myPediaClinic, we welcome these discussions and provide evidence-based information to help parents make informed decisions. Vaccines undergo rigorous testing for safety and efficacy before approval, and ongoing monitoring continues after vaccines are in use. The benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks for the vast majority of children. Common side effects, such as soreness at the injection site or mild fever, are typically short-lived and much less serious than the diseases vaccines prevent. If your child has a medical condition that may affect vaccination recommendations, our pediatricians can provide personalized guidance.

Vision Screening: Seeing Clearly for Learning Success

Good vision is essential for learning. Children with undetected vision problems may struggle academically, not because of a lack of ability, but because they cannot see clearly. Vision problems can also affect coordination, social interaction, and overall quality of life.

Why Vision Screening Matters

Many children do not realize they have vision problems because they assume everyone sees the way they do. Unlike some health conditions that cause obvious symptoms, vision problems can be subtle and easily overlooked. Research shows that a significant percentage of children have some form of vision problem that could affect their learning. Early detection through routine screening allows for timely intervention, whether through glasses, vision therapy, or other treatments. At myPediaClinic, vision screening is a standard part of our well-child and back-to-school examinations.

Common Vision Problems in Children

Several vision conditions can affect school-age children. Myopia (nearsightedness) makes distant objects appear blurry, affecting a child’s ability to see the board or teacher from their seat. Hyperopia (farsightedness) makes close objects difficult to see clearly, affecting reading and close work. Astigmatism causes overall blurry vision due to an irregularly shaped cornea. Amblyopia (lazy eye) occurs when one eye does not develop proper vision, often due to misalignment or significant difference in prescription between eyes. Strabismus (crossed eyes) is a misalignment of the eyes that can affect depth perception and may lead to amblyopia if not treated.

Signs Your Child May Have Vision Problems

Parents and teachers should watch for signs that a child may be experiencing vision difficulties. These include squinting or closing one eye to see better, sitting very close to the television or holding books very close to the face, frequent headaches especially after reading or screen time, rubbing eyes frequently, difficulty concentrating on schoolwork, avoiding activities that require good vision such as reading or sports, tilting the head to one side, and complaints of tired eyes or double vision. If you notice any of these signs, schedule a comprehensive eye examination for your child.

What to Expect from a Vision Screening

A basic vision screening typically involves tests to measure visual acuity (how clearly your child sees at various distances), alignment of the eyes, and color vision. If the screening identifies potential problems, your child will be referred to an ophthalmologist or optometrist for a comprehensive eye exam. This more detailed examination can diagnose specific conditions and determine whether glasses or other treatments are needed. For children who need glasses, proper fitting and selection of durable, child-appropriate frames can help ensure they wear their glasses consistently.

Hearing Screening: Ensuring Clear Communication

Hearing is fundamental to language development, communication, and learning. Children with hearing loss, even mild loss, can experience difficulties in school if the condition is not identified and addressed.

The Impact of Hearing on Learning

Children rely on hearing to follow instructions, participate in class discussions, learn phonics and reading, and interact with peers. Even mild hearing loss can cause a child to miss significant portions of what is said in the classroom, leading to gaps in learning and potential frustration. Children with undetected hearing problems may be mislabeled as inattentive or having behavioral issues when the real problem is that they cannot hear clearly.

Types of Hearing Loss in Children

Hearing loss in children can be conductive (caused by problems in the outer or middle ear), sensorineural (caused by problems in the inner ear or auditory nerve), or mixed. Conductive hearing loss is often caused by ear infections, fluid in the middle ear, or earwax buildup and is frequently treatable. Sensorineural hearing loss is typically permanent but can be managed with hearing aids or other interventions. Some hearing loss is present at birth (congenital), while other cases develop later due to illness, injury, or noise exposure.

Signs of Hearing Problems

Signs that a child may have hearing difficulties include frequently asking “what?” or requesting repetition, difficulty following verbal instructions, turning up the volume on electronic devices, speaking loudly or softly inappropriately, difficulty with speech sounds or pronunciation, appearing inattentive or “in their own world,” and difficulty in noisy environments. If you observe these signs, discuss them with your pediatrician at myPediaClinic.

Hearing Screening Procedures

Basic hearing screenings can be performed in the pediatric clinic and involve presenting sounds at various frequencies and volumes to determine the softest sounds a child can hear. If the screening indicates possible hearing loss, your child will be referred to an audiologist for comprehensive testing. Early identification allows for early intervention, which can make a significant difference in a child’s language development and academic success.

Adjusting Sleep Schedules for School Success

Sleep is one of the most important factors affecting a child’s health, behavior, and ability to learn. During summer vacation, many children develop later bedtimes and wake times that are not compatible with school schedules. Transitioning back to a school-appropriate sleep schedule before the academic year begins is crucial.

How Much Sleep Do Children Need?

Sleep needs vary by age, but general guidelines recommend that children aged 3-5 years get 10-13 hours of sleep including naps, children aged 6-12 years get 9-12 hours, and teenagers aged 13-18 years get 8-10 hours. Many children, particularly adolescents, do not get adequate sleep, which can affect mood, concentration, memory, immune function, and overall health. Prioritizing sleep is one of the most impactful things parents can do to support their child’s success in school.

The Consequences of Sleep Deprivation

Children who do not get enough sleep may experience difficulty waking up in the morning and daytime sleepiness, irritability and mood swings, difficulty concentrating and paying attention in class, impaired memory and learning, weakened immune system leading to more frequent illness, increased risk of obesity, and behavioral problems that may be mistaken for ADHD. Chronic sleep deprivation can have cumulative effects on a child’s physical and mental health.

Strategies for Transitioning to School Sleep Schedules

Begin adjusting your child’s sleep schedule at least two weeks before school starts. Gradually shift bedtime and wake time earlier by 15-30 minutes every few days until you reach the target schedule. Establish a consistent bedtime routine that helps signal to your child’s body that it is time to wind down. This might include a warm bath, changing into pajamas, brushing teeth, reading a book together, and quiet conversation. Limit stimulating activities and screen time in the hour before bed, as the blue light from screens can interfere with the production of melatonin, the hormone that promotes sleep.

Creating an Optimal Sleep Environment

The sleep environment plays a significant role in sleep quality. Ensure your child’s bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet. Use blackout curtains if needed, particularly in Dubai where summer days are long and bright. Remove electronic devices from the bedroom or establish rules about their use at night. A comfortable mattress and bedding appropriate for the climate contribute to better sleep. Some children benefit from white noise machines to block out disruptive sounds. At myPediaClinic, we can provide personalized recommendations for addressing sleep challenges.

Nutrition: Fueling Learning and Growth

Proper nutrition provides the energy and nutrients children need for physical growth, brain development, and the mental focus required for learning. What children eat affects their ability to concentrate, their energy levels throughout the day, and their overall health.

The Importance of Breakfast

Breakfast is often called the most important meal of the day, and for school-age children, this is particularly true. After the overnight fast, children need fuel to power their brains and bodies for the morning’s activities. Studies consistently show that children who eat breakfast perform better academically, have better concentration and memory, exhibit improved behavior, and are more likely to meet their nutritional needs. A balanced breakfast should include protein (eggs, yogurt, cheese, or nut butter), complex carbohydrates (whole-grain bread, oatmeal, or fruit), and healthy fats.

Packing Healthy Lunches and Snacks

School lunches should be nutritious, appealing, and practical. Include a variety of food groups: protein (chicken, fish, beans, cheese, or eggs), whole grains (whole wheat bread, rice, or pasta), vegetables and fruits, and healthy fats. Avoid excessive processed foods, sugary drinks, and high-sodium snacks. Get your child involved in choosing and preparing their lunch to increase the likelihood they will eat it. Pack lunches in insulated bags with ice packs to keep food safe in Dubai’s warm climate. Healthy snacks such as fresh fruit, vegetables with hummus, yogurt, nuts, or whole-grain crackers can help maintain energy between meals.

Hydration for Health and Focus

Staying properly hydrated is essential for physical and cognitive function. Even mild dehydration can cause fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and headaches. In Dubai’s hot climate, children need to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Water is the best choice for hydration. Encourage your child to have a water bottle at school and to drink regularly, especially during physical activity. Limit sugary drinks such as sodas, fruit juices, and sports drinks, which can contribute to dental cavities, weight gain, and blood sugar fluctuations.

Addressing Picky Eating and Food Allergies

Many children go through phases of picky eating, which can make ensuring adequate nutrition challenging. Strategies for dealing with picky eaters include offering a variety of healthy foods, involving children in meal planning and preparation, modeling healthy eating habits, avoiding using food as a reward or punishment, and being patient as tastes develop over time. If your child has food allergies or intolerances, communicate this clearly to the school and ensure they have safe alternatives available. At myPediaClinic, our pediatricians can provide guidance on managing nutritional challenges and food allergies.

Preventing Illness: Keeping Your Child Healthy Throughout the School Year

Schools are environments where illnesses can spread easily due to close contact between children. While it is impossible to prevent all illness, there are many steps parents can take to reduce their child’s risk of getting sick and to manage illness when it occurs.

Teaching Good Hand Hygiene

Handwashing is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of infection. Teach your child to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the bathroom, after blowing their nose or coughing, and after playing outside or handling shared objects. In situations where handwashing is not possible, alcohol-based hand sanitizers are a good alternative. Make handwashing a habit that becomes second nature to your child.

Respiratory Hygiene and Cough Etiquette

Teaching children to cover coughs and sneezes properly helps prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses. Instruct your child to cough or sneeze into a tissue and then dispose of it immediately, or to cough into their elbow if a tissue is not available. Discourage covering coughs with hands, as this can spread germs to everything the child touches afterward. Model good respiratory hygiene yourself, as children learn by example.

Understanding Common School Illnesses

Several illnesses commonly spread in school settings. Colds and upper respiratory infections are the most common, typically caused by viruses and characterized by runny nose, cough, and sometimes fever. Influenza (flu) is more severe and can cause high fever, body aches, and significant fatigue. Gastroenteritis (stomach flu) causes vomiting and diarrhea. Head lice are not a disease but commonly spread in schools and cause scalp itching. Conjunctivitis (pink eye), strep throat, and various rashes are also common. Knowing what to watch for helps you identify illness early and take appropriate action.

When to Keep Your Child Home from School

Keeping a sick child home not only allows them to rest and recover but also prevents spreading illness to classmates and teachers. Keep your child home if they have a fever (generally 100.4°F/38°C or higher), are vomiting or have diarrhea, have a new rash that has not been evaluated by a doctor, have eye discharge suggestive of conjunctivitis, have symptoms that prevent them from participating in school activities, or if they have a contagious illness until they are no longer contagious. When in doubt, consult with your pediatrician at myPediaClinic.

Boosting Your Child’s Immune System

A healthy immune system is your child’s best defense against illness. Support immune function by ensuring adequate sleep, providing a nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, encouraging regular physical activity, keeping vaccinations up to date, managing stress, and avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke. While no supplement can guarantee illness prevention, a healthy lifestyle provides the foundation for a strong immune system.

Mental Health Considerations for the School Year

Mental health is just as important as physical health, and the school environment can significantly impact a child’s emotional well-being. Academic pressures, social dynamics, bullying, and the expectations of school life can be sources of stress and anxiety for children of all ages.

Recognizing Signs of Stress and Anxiety

Children may not always be able to articulate their emotional struggles, so parents should watch for signs that their child may be experiencing stress or anxiety. These signs may include changes in sleep patterns (difficulty falling asleep, frequent waking, or sleeping more than usual), changes in appetite, frequent complaints of headaches or stomachaches, reluctance or refusal to go to school, withdrawal from friends or activities they previously enjoyed, irritability or mood swings, difficulty concentrating, regression to earlier behaviors (such as bedwetting in younger children), and excessive worry about school performance or social situations.

Supporting Your Child’s Emotional Well-Being

Create an environment where your child feels safe discussing their feelings and concerns. Set aside time each day to talk with your child about their day, listening actively and without judgment. Validate their feelings, even if the concerns seem minor to you. Help them develop coping strategies such as deep breathing, physical activity, or creative expression. Establish consistent routines that provide a sense of security and predictability. Ensure they have time for play, relaxation, and activities they enjoy, not just academic obligations.

Addressing Bullying

Bullying is a serious issue that can have lasting effects on a child’s mental health and well-being. Teach your child what bullying is and encourage them to tell you or another trusted adult if they experience or witness bullying. Signs that a child may be experiencing bullying include unexplained injuries, lost or damaged belongings, declining grades, reluctance to go to school, changes in eating or sleeping habits, and social withdrawal. If your child is being bullied, work with the school to address the situation and provide emotional support to your child. At myPediaClinic, we can provide guidance and referrals if your child is struggling with the effects of bullying.

When to Seek Professional Help

While some degree of nervousness about school is normal, especially during transitions, persistent or severe symptoms warrant professional evaluation. Seek help if your child’s symptoms interfere significantly with daily functioning, persist for more than a few weeks, include thoughts of self-harm or suicide, or if you are concerned about their mental health for any reason. Mental health professionals, including child psychologists and psychiatrists, can provide assessment, therapy, and other interventions as needed.

School Readiness: Is Your Child Prepared?

School readiness encompasses more than academic skills. It includes social, emotional, and physical readiness for the school environment. Ensuring your child is ready for school sets the stage for a positive school experience.

Academic Readiness

Academic readiness varies by age and the specific requirements of the school. For kindergarten, basic skills such as recognizing letters and numbers, counting, following simple instructions, and holding a pencil are typically expected. For older children returning to school, reviewing material from the previous year can help refresh their memory and ease the transition. Summer learning loss is a real phenomenon, so some academic practice during the break can be beneficial. However, avoid excessive academic pressure; play and exploration are also important for development.

Social and Emotional Readiness

Social readiness involves the ability to interact appropriately with peers and adults, share, take turns, follow rules, and function as part of a group. Emotional readiness includes the ability to separate from parents, manage frustration and disappointment, and cope with the demands of the school day. These skills develop over time and at different rates in different children. If you have concerns about your child’s social or emotional readiness, discuss them with your pediatrician at myPediaClinic.

Physical Readiness and Self-Care Skills

Physical readiness includes the fine motor skills needed for writing and crafts, the gross motor skills for physical education and playground activities, and the stamina to participate in a full school day. Self-care skills are also important, particularly for younger children. Can your child use the bathroom independently, wash hands, manage their clothing (buttons, zippers, shoe fastening), open their lunch containers, and take care of their belongings? Practicing these skills before school starts can boost your child’s confidence and independence.

Preparing for the First Day

The first day of school can be exciting but also anxiety-provoking for both children and parents. Visit the school before the first day if possible to familiarize your child with the environment. Talk positively about school and what they can look forward to. Establish the school routine several days in advance, including wake time, breakfast, and getting dressed. Prepare everything needed for school the night before to reduce morning stress. On the first day, project calm confidence, as children pick up on parental anxiety. Say goodbye briefly and confidently, reassuring your child that you will see them at pickup time.

Managing Chronic Health Conditions at School

Children with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, allergies, epilepsy, or other conditions need appropriate support and management during the school day. Coordination between parents, healthcare providers, and the school is essential.

Creating a Health Management Plan

Work with your child’s healthcare provider at myPediaClinic to develop a comprehensive health management plan for school. This plan should include information about the condition, symptoms to watch for, medications needed during school hours, emergency procedures, activity restrictions if any, and contact information for parents and healthcare providers. Share this plan with the school administration, classroom teacher, school nurse, and other relevant staff.

Medication Administration at School

If your child needs medication during school hours, understand the school’s policies and procedures for medication administration. Most schools require written authorization from both the parent and healthcare provider. Medications must be in their original containers with proper labeling. Keep a supply of emergency medications (such as epinephrine auto-injectors for severe allergies or rescue inhalers for asthma) at school with proper documentation. Ensure school staff know how and when to administer these medications.

Communicating with School Staff

Open communication with school staff is crucial for managing your child’s health condition. Meet with relevant staff before school starts to discuss your child’s needs. Provide training if necessary, such as demonstrating how to use an epinephrine auto-injector or recognize signs of low blood sugar. Stay in regular contact throughout the year and update the school if there are changes to your child’s condition or treatment plan. Encourage your child, as appropriate for their age, to be an advocate for their own health needs.

Backpack Safety and Ergonomics

Backpacks are a daily part of school life, but improper use can lead to back pain, neck pain, and other musculoskeletal problems. Teaching your child proper backpack use helps prevent these issues.

Choosing the Right Backpack

Select a backpack that is appropriately sized for your child – it should not extend below the waist or above the shoulders when worn. Look for wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back panel. A waist or chest strap can help distribute weight more evenly. Multiple compartments help organize contents and distribute weight. Consider the backpack’s weight when empty; lighter materials are preferable.

Packing and Wearing the Backpack Properly

The loaded backpack should weigh no more than 10-20% of your child’s body weight. Pack the heaviest items closest to the back. Use both shoulder straps, as wearing the backpack on one shoulder causes uneven stress on the spine. Adjust straps so the backpack sits snugly against the back; it should not hang more than 4 inches below the waist. Regularly clean out the backpack to remove unnecessary items that add weight.

Signs of Backpack-Related Problems

Watch for signs that your child’s backpack may be causing problems, including complaints of back, neck, or shoulder pain, red marks or skin irritation from straps, tingling or numbness in the arms, posture changes such as leaning forward when walking, and difficulty putting on or taking off the backpack. If your child experiences persistent pain or discomfort, consult with your pediatrician at myPediaClinic for evaluation and recommendations.

Physical Activity and Sports Participation

Physical activity is essential for children’s health and development. Participation in sports and physical education provides exercise, teaches teamwork and discipline, and can be an important source of enjoyment and self-esteem.

Benefits of Physical Activity for School-Age Children

Regular physical activity helps children maintain a healthy weight, build strong bones and muscles, improve cardiovascular fitness, develop coordination and motor skills, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve sleep quality, and may enhance academic performance. The World Health Organization recommends that children and adolescents aged 5-17 should accumulate at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily.

Sports Physicals and Safety

Before participating in organized sports, children should have a sports physical examination. This evaluation assesses cardiovascular health, musculoskeletal condition, and overall fitness for sports participation. It also provides an opportunity to discuss injury prevention, proper conditioning, and any health issues that may affect sports participation. At myPediaClinic, we provide comprehensive sports physicals to ensure your child can participate safely in athletic activities.

Injury Prevention

Help prevent sports injuries by ensuring your child warms up properly before activity and cools down afterward, uses appropriate protective equipment (helmets, pads, mouthguards, etc.) for their sport, stays hydrated especially in Dubai’s hot climate, knows and follows the rules of their sport, takes time to recover between intense activities, and reports any pain or injury promptly. If an injury occurs, proper treatment and adequate recovery time before returning to activity help prevent re-injury and long-term problems.

Frequently Asked Questions About Back to School Health

Comprehensive Back-to-School Care at myPediaClinic

At myPediaClinic, we understand that preparing for the school year involves many considerations, and we are here to support families every step of the way. Our comprehensive back-to-school services include thorough health examinations, vision and hearing screenings, vaccination review and administration, nutritional counseling, management of chronic health conditions, developmental and behavioral assessments, and sports physicals for athletic participation. Dr. Medhat Abu Shaaban and our entire pediatric team are committed to providing personalized, compassionate care that addresses each child’s unique needs.

We believe that a healthy child is a successful child, and we partner with parents to ensure children have the best possible foundation for learning and growth. Whether your child is entering school for the first time or returning for another year, we are here to help ensure they are healthy, prepared, and ready to thrive. Our child-friendly clinic environment puts children at ease, making health visits a positive experience. We welcome families from across Dubai and the UAE to experience the quality care that myPediaClinic provides.

Conclusion: Setting Your Child Up for a Successful School Year

The back-to-school season is an exciting time filled with new opportunities for learning and growth. By taking proactive steps to address your child’s health needs before school begins, you can help ensure they are ready to make the most of these opportunities. A comprehensive health checkup, up-to-date vaccinations, vision and hearing screening, proper sleep habits, nutritious eating, good hygiene practices, attention to mental health, and appropriate management of any chronic conditions all contribute to a successful school experience.

As a parent, you play a crucial role in preparing your child for school and supporting them throughout the academic year. Your involvement, encouragement, and attention to their health and well-being make a significant difference. Remember that challenges are a normal part of growing up, and that help is available when needed. The team at myPediaClinic is here to support you and your child through every stage of their development.

We wish all students in Dubai a healthy, happy, and successful school year. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s health or school readiness, or if you would like to schedule a back-to-school checkup, please contact myPediaClinic today. We look forward to partnering with you in your child’s health journey.