SPRINGFIELD, IL (KFVS) - Now may be the time to start thinking about shots for the next school year.

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, National Infant Immunization Week  is April 21-28.

State health officials say that Illinois students entering the 6-9th grades next school year (2012-2013) will be required to have a school physical and show proof of receiving Tdap vaccine.  Otherwise, students must have an appointment to get the vaccine or have an approved medical or religious exemption on file. 

According to state health officials, students who don’t get the required shots will not be allowed to attend school.

(KFVS) - The University of Illinois Extension is encouraging parents to take children outside and enjoy the outdoors.

"Playing outside is not only a physically healthy activity, but is good for the overall wellbeing of the child," said Youth Development Educator Michelle Bisel.

Bisel said playing outdoors stimulates the senses and is important to the development of children. She said some studies even state that there are negative affects to a child who is not exposed to nature.

According to U of IE, some possible nature activities this spring include:

(KFVS) - The Illinois Department Public Health announced they will be joining communities nationwide recognizing National Public Health Week April 2-8 to raise awareness about the prevention and wellness through this year's theme: "A Healthier America Begins Today: Join the Movement."

The first full week of April has been observed as National Public Health Week since 1995 for communities nationwide to recognize the contributions of public health and highlight issues that are important to improving the public’s health.

“Everyone has a role to play in creating healthier communities and this year’s theme encourages all of us to start now in taking active, strategic steps to get healthy and stay healthy,” said IDPH Acting Director Dr. Arthur Kohrman.