Back-to-School Checkups & Vaccine Records: An Etobicoke Parent's Guide

September sneaks up fast. Between school supplies and new routines, your child's health checklist is the one item that's easiest to postpone — and the one that matters most. Here's what Etobicoke families should take care of before the first bell.

1. Book the annual checkup

A back-to-school checkup is a full look at your child's growth and wellbeing: height and weight, vision and hearing concerns, sleep, nutrition, and anything you've noticed over the summer. It's also the natural moment to raise questions about attention, mood, or energy — things teachers may flag later in the fall.

If your child doesn't yet have a doctor, our family doctors are accepting new patients — many Etobicoke families register everyone in one visit.

2. Check the immunization record

Under Ontario's Immunization of School Pupils Act, students need proof of certain immunizations — or a valid exemption — to attend school, and Toronto Public Health does periodically ask families for updated records. August is the right time to look at your child's yellow card (or Ontario's online record) rather than during a September scramble.

Our doctors can review the record, catch up any missed doses, and provide the documentation you need. See our immunization services for what's available on-site — routine childhood vaccines included.

3. Get school and camp forms done early

Many schools, daycares, sports programs and camps ask for medical forms, asthma or allergy plans, or a doctor's note. We complete these as part of our documentation services — bring the forms with you and we'll usually finish them the same visit.

4. New to Canada? Start here

If your family has recently arrived in Etobicoke or Rexdale, we can assess which immunizations your child needs to meet Ontario's requirements and set up records from scratch. No OHIP card yet? We offer clear, affordable self-pay options — learn more here.

Make it one trip

Because Albion Health is a walk-in clinic, family practice and pharmacy under one roof, a single visit to 1625 Albion Road can cover the checkup, the vaccines, the forms — and any prescriptions filled at our on-site pharmacy before you leave.

This guide is general information for our community and is not a substitute for medical advice. For guidance specific to your child, speak with a physician.