Nebraska students will soon return to the classroom, and doctors say a healthy start can make a difference in how they learn and perform.

Nebraska state law requires physical exams for children entering kindergarten and seventh grade, along with students transferring from another state.

Dr. Rachel Johnson, an associate professor of internal medicine and pediatrics with the University of Nebraska Medical Center, reminded parents that medical checkups can address other concerns too.

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"Any learning concerns that a family might have for a kiddo, I think sometimes people forget that we as pediatricians and family doctors can often help families, navigate some of those challenges, because I think at the end of the day, we want kids to succeed in school," Johnson said.

Johnson said doctors can also help families identify nutrition, sleep or developmental concerns that could make it harder for a child to thrive in school.

Nebraska screens students in several grades for vision, hearing and dental health, along with height and weight.

Just as important, back-to-school wellness includes children’s emotional and mental health.

Nebraska health officials report children and teens in the state are more likely than their peers nationwide to need mental health treatment and not receive it.

Dr. Rhonda Randall, chief medical officer with UnitedHealthcare, said parents should watch for changes in their children’s behavior.

"In every age group, those concerns can look different. For a younger child, you might see issues with behavior or outbursts or separation anxiety. Older children might have issues with stress, or attention, or friendships, or grades," Randall said.

And as families reset their school-year routines, health experts also recommend establishing limits on phones, tablets and other devices.

Johnson said household media rules can protect children’s sleep and help them remain focused during the school day.

"Set amount of screen time limits before bed, not having devices in the rooms can really, really be helpful to set that child up for success in the school year," Johnson said.

Johnson also recommended starting the day with a nutritious breakfast that includes protein.