ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Pediatricians are reminding parents to make appointments for their children's back-to-school vaccines and physicals.

But as some parents hesitated taking their children in at the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, the decision is just as difficult for some parents at back-to-school time.

The Kaczor family from St. Petersburg feels fine taking their two children for in-person visits when the time comes.

"I’m comfortable," said Angela Kaczor. "I know our pediatrician's office has sent several emails stating their safety protocols and what they’re doing to keep their families safe."

Dr. Rachel Dawkins is a General Pediatrician at Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, she does not treat the Kaczors but says not all parents feel comfortable coming in to the office.

"We are seeing that parents are delaying coming in for their back-to-school physicals or maybe coming in for their vaccines because they're worried about coming to the office due to COVID," said Dr. Dawkins.

Dr. Dawkins reminds parents visits this time of year address more than vaccines and physicals.

"We not only make to sure they’re up to date on vaccines but we make sure that they’re growing and developing properly, that they’re ready for school, make sure that they’re not suffering from anxiety or depression, just make sure how the child is doing as a whole.”

Dr. Dawkins says there's more.

"I’m worried that we’re going to see outbreaks of vaccine-preventable illnesses such as maybe measles or mumps, other diseases that we commonly don’t see," said Dr. Dawkins.

"So, we’re not just worried about COVID but we’re worried about lots of things and we’re also heading into flu season."

Those in-person visits mean putting extra precautions in place.

“We are making sure the offices are super clean, everyone in the office is masked  and all patients and families are masked when they come in," said Dr. Dawkins.

"We’re not allowing patients to sit in the waiting rooms very long, we bring them right back to rooms.”

From those back-to school doctor appointments, to back to learning, no matter the method, it's a unique time for families.

"It’s definitely different," said Kaczor.  "My son is starting kindergarten and it’s usually a time of excitement of oh, you’re going to be starting a new school and you’re going to be with your sister and it’s going to be really fun and let’s go back to school shopping, I just don’t think he understands that and it’s definitely different."

Dr. Dawkins says be sure to address any concerns you might have with your child's pediatrician