Parents know how important it is for babies to see their pediatricians regularly. We check the child’s weight and height, make sure they’re on track developmentally and answer any questions or concerns the parents have.
Some parents don’t see the need for their children to have routine visits after about age 2, but well-child care is essential to monitor the overall health of a child and family. The priorities of each well-child visit include:
- Measuring the child’s weight and height (head size is monitored until age 3)
- Assessing the overall physical growth and development of the child
- Ensuring appropriate developmental milestones are being met
- Assessing the child’s mental and emotional health
- Giving vaccines required for school, or the flu vaccine in the fall
- Performing physicals required for sports or physical education class
Time-saving tip: Schedule your child's back-to-school appointments in June or July. You'll get in and out faster!
At well-child visits, older children have a moment to be in the spotlight and have their specific concerns addressed. Adolescents get their chance to share concerns about a changing body and mind, and parents get some relief by sharing their concerns with their child’s physician.
As a pediatrician, I can take better care of my patients if I see them on a regular basis, instead of only when urgent needs arise. I get to know them. I learn to trust them, and they learn to trust me. Regular well-child care helps establish a relationship between physician and patient that strengthens the overall health care of that person.
As a parent, I’ve sat in the waiting room of my own office accompanying one of my children to his wellness visit. I can still remember and use the information provided to me by my child’s physician and his nurse.
Check the schedule below and if your child is not up-to-date on their regular care, call us today to schedule an appointment or find out more.
Children should be seen by their physicians at the following ages:
During the first year: 2-3 days, 2 weeks, 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 9 months, 12 months
Early childhood: 15 months, 18 months, 24 months, 3 years
Then yearly through 18 years
Learn more about our Pediatrics clinic and schedule an appointment today by calling 208-377-4400.