8 The importance of If you have children, it’s important to take them to regular well-child visits. These visits, also called physical exams or checkups, help you understand your child’s growth and development. They also help keep your child healthy and safe. When it comes to choosing a provider for your child’s checkups, you have options. Pediatricians are doctors who have specialized training in caring for children. But a family doctor also can provide quality well-child visits. These providers care for patients at all stages of life, from childhood through old age. How often will my child need well-child visits? During the first few years of life, your child grows rapidly and will need frequent checkups. Here are the ages at which your child needs to see the provider: • 1 week • 1 month • 2 months • 4 months • 6 months • 9 months • 12 months • 15 months • 18 months • 2 years • 2½ years Between ages 3 and 21, your child may need an annual well-child visit — ask your provider when they want to see your child next. ? Why does my child need well-child visits? These checkups offer many advantages. Growth and development. At each visit, the provider will give your child a physical exam. They will measure your child’s height and weight, listen to their heartbeat and lungs, and perform simple tests to understand how your child is growing and if their development is within a normal range for their age. The doctor will talk about your child’s stages of physical and social development, which are called developmental milestones. Prevention. Your child needs immunizations to protect them against serious illnesses. In addition to these immunizations, you and your provider will discuss ways to make sure your child is safe at home and at school. Answers to your questions. Well-child visits are an ideal time for you to bring up questions or concerns. For example, you may want to know if your child is eating the right foods or getting adequate sleep. Jot down your top questions and bring them with you. Make notes during the visit, and review them when you get home. If your child has had major changes in their life, such as a new sibling or a new school, be sure to mention them during the checkup.
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