Child Wellness Checkups

Since rapid growth and change is a major part of childhood, your child will more than likely have more well visits during this period. During your child’s checkup, your pediatrician will record all vital statistics including height and weight, perform hearing and vision screenings, and provide a thorough physical examination, which includes issuing the proper immunizations. Your pediatrician will also identify if there are any problems or delays in growth or development.

Important topics discussed

One of the most important parts of a well child checkup is preventive health care. This means that even if your child is healthy, these routine visits are still important for discussing your child’s health with your pediatrician. Communication is always key.

Your pediatrician will also provide information regarding development, nutrition, safety, sleep and other important topics that you will need to know as your child matures. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your child’s health, these checkups are the best time to address them.

During this visit, you should expect your pediatrician to identify whether your child is meeting normal development milestones. Your child’s height, weight and head circumference will also be recorded on a growth chart, which is kept with your child’s medical records. Your doctor may also talk to you about other issues such as family relationships, school, and proper access to community services.

When to visit the pediatrician

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends this timetable for when your child should be going to their well-child checkups: Once your child is born, your first visit will most likely be a few days after you bring your child home from the hospital. After that, you should expect six checkups by the age of 1, two additional checkups before they turn 2 years old and then at least one checkup each year until they are 21 years old. Of course, this schedule may change depending on your child’s health or if your pediatrician identifies any development problems. Subsequently, if you have any concerns about your child’s health, you can also call your pediatrician to setup additional appointments.