As you prepare for your kids to head back to school, make sure you include a well check on your back-to-school “to do” list. Well-child visits, or well checks, are important even when your child is not sick. Regular check-ups keep your child healthy, as well as ensure that he or she is growing and developing normally.
With the start of the school year just weeks away, doctors urge parents to book a well check appointment sooner rather than later. Dr. Jeremy Dalton, a pediatrician for Covenant Medical Group, discusses the importance of well checks and the best times to schedule them for your child.
During your child’s well check, your physician will usually:
o Measure your child’s height, weight and head circumference (for children under 3 years of age.) o Check vital signso Perform a physical examo Review your child’s diet, growth and development o Perform tests such as vision, hearing and lab serviceso Administer needed vaccinations
To make the most out of your well check, make a list of questions or concerns you may have prior to the appointment.
Ask questions regarding your child’s:
o Health and safetyo Nutrition and dieto Physical fitness and general health careo Sleep habitso Growth and developmento Behavior and disciplineo Problems such as learning, emotional or social, or concerns about family problems, puberty and teenage years.
Recommended Well Check Schedule:
o 2 weekso 2 monthso 4 monthso 6 monthso 9 monthso 12 monthso 15 monthso 18 monthso 2 yearso Once every year thereafter
Dr. Dalton recommends scheduling your child’s annual well check as soon as possible to avoid the rush before school starts. It may take a month or longer to get in for a check-up if your doctor has a busy practice. It is important to take an active role in the health of your child by working together with their doctor during well checks.