Common Causes of Clinic Visits
Routine Care
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Well‑child checkups
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Health maintenance visits
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Sports physicals
Acute Illnesses
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Upper respiratory infections and colds
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Ear infections and ear pain
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Sore throat
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Fever
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Cough
Chronic or Ongoing Concerns
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Headaches
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Abdominal pain (often related to anxiety)
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Anxiety and depression
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ADHD
Other Visits
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Minor injuries
Preventing Illness
While not all illnesses can be prevented, healthy daily habits make a big difference:
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Get adequate sleep
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Eat a balanced, nutritious diet
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Stay physically active
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Wash hands frequently
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Cover coughs and sneezes
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Stay home when sick
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Stay up to date on recommended vaccinations
Dental Health Tips
Information provided by Dr. Rachel Breining, Elite Smiles, Little Chute
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Schedule the first dental visit when the first tooth erupts, no later than age one
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Brush teeth at least twice daily for 20 seconds
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Begin flossing when teeth start to touch
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Monitor bite alignment early; orthodontic concerns are easier to address while bones are still growing
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Dentists often use a “tell‑show‑do” approach to help children feel comfortable
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Avoid opening sealed plastic packages with teeth—use scissors instead
Injury Prevention & Safety Tips
Everyday Safety
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Wear bike helmets and protective gear when biking, skateboarding, or rollerblading
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Use booster seats until a child reaches 4’9”
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Always wear seatbelts and ride in the back seat until at least age 13
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Practice water safety and close supervision near pools and lakes
Environmental Protection
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Use sunscreen and reapply regularly
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Use bug spray as needed
Healthy Habits for Physical & Mental Wellness
Sleep
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Adequate sleep is essential for growth, learning, and emotional health
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Avoid electronics in bedrooms
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Elementary‑aged children: aim for at least 10 hours per night
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Middle school / junior high students: aim for at least 8 hours per night
Physical Activity
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Encourage daily movement and exercise
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Make activity fun: play games, go outside, explore
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Stretch, warm up properly, and drink enough water
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Remember: our bodies are meant to move
Nutrition
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Focus on balanced meals with healthy portions
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Encourage smaller portion sizes and limit frequent snacking
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Reduce excess caffeine intake (including energy drinks and specialty beverages)
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Drink enough water throughout the day
Screen Time & Connection
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Limit recreational screen time
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Encourage interaction with parents, caregivers, and peers
Skin, Eye, and Physical Health
Prevention Recommendations
Dermatology
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Be aware of family history of skin conditions (such as melanoma)
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Common concerns include eczema, acne, and warts
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Consistent sunscreen use is key to sun safety
Physical Therapy & Body Mechanics
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Exercise strengthens the body and supports healthy movement
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Too much flexibility without strength can increase injury risk
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Warm up and cool down during sports
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Understand growth plates and injury prevention in young athletes
Community & School Support
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Children may receive services in school to help optimize learning
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Early support can prevent progression of congenital or developmental concerns
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Community partners such as police and fire departments also play a role in child safety education
Final Note from Heidi
I enjoyed putting this information together from our community health and safety experts. I recently started to send out new questionnaires to keep this information updated. Is there other information you would like to have discussed here?
Thank you, Heidi
You may use the message area on the website www.georgethegerm to connect with me.
***For questions or concerns about your child’s health, safety, or development, contact your pediatrician or another trusted healthcare professional.***