Well Child Visits
Preventative Care Promotes Healthy Growth & Development
Regular well child visits are one of the most important things you can do to keep your child healthy? Well child visits also provide you with the opportunity to discuss any questions or concerns you may have about your child’s health.
Your child should have a well child visit at the intervals listed below. We recommend that you call our office 1-2 months in advance to schedule yearly well child check-ups, at least 1 month in advance for toddler check-ups and 2-4 weeks in advance for infant check-ups. We want you to get an appointment that best fits your needs!
Schedule of Visits
3-5 Days
Congratulations! Your baby is finally here. Newborns are wonderful, but exhausting! Having friends or family around to provide extra help and support can be very helpful. Make sure all visitors wash their hands well. Your baby’s first visit to our office takes place during his or her first week of life, usually 1-2 days after you are discharged from the hospital.
We do a lot at this visit, including:
- Check your baby’s weight.
- Monitor for signs of jaundice.
- Check to see how your baby is feeding.
- Answer questions about your new baby.
Immunizations:
- HepB#1 (if not given in hospital)
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Follow-up on Newborn Metabolic Screen done in hospital
Helpful Info:
1-2 Week Visit
The 1-2 Week Visit (sooner if you have concerns!) is a time to talk about how your family is acclimating to your newest addition. Feeding, bowel habits and sleeping are common topics. If you are breastfeeding, and have any questions or concerns, we offer personalized breastfeeding assistance. Remember, babies do lose weight after birth but should gain it back within the first 7-14 days.
Please remember that it is important to always put your baby to sleep on his or her back in a flat, firm and separate sleep space to reduce the risk of SIDS. As always, we are here to answer questions and offer anticipatory guidance.
We do a lot at this visit, including:
- Measure your baby’s weight, length and head size and record on a growth curve.
- Remind you to give your baby a daily supplement of 400 IU of vitamin D drops if you are breastfeeding.
Immunizations:
- None
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- None
Helpful Info:
1 Month Visit
You little one is growing and changing fast! At this visit we will track your baby's growth and development and answer any questions you have. So remember, bring your questions:)
Immunizations:
- None
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Post Partum Depression Assessment
- TB Surveillance
Helpful Info:
2 Month Visit
When you think back to the day you brought your little one home, you realize how much they have grown and changed. Growing so fast can cause some babies to be fussy or "colicky" as their bodies are changing so much. All babies outgrow this crying/fussy phase. If your little one is feeding well, has a clean diaper and no fever or symptoms of illness, you can put him/her in their crib or bassinet to give yourself a break. And remember, don't hesistate to call us if you have any concerns.
We do a lot at this visit, including:
- Measure your baby’s weight, length and head size and record on a growth curve.
- Provide your baby’s first set of immunizations. Immunizations are safe, effective and keep your child and our community healthy. During this visit, you will be able to discuss any questions you may have about immunizations.
Immunizations:
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Post Partum Depression Assessment
Helpful Info:
4 Month Visit
Your baby is becoming more active and verbal! Be careful not to leave your baby unattended, especially on a bed, couch or counter. They move faster than you think!
At this visit we will discuss introducing spoon foods and the importance of introducing your baby to common food allergens to help prevent future food allergies.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your baby’s weight, length and head size and record on a growth curve.
- Provide your baby’s first set of immunizations. Immunizations are safe, effective and keep your child and our community healthy. During this visit, you will be able to discuss any questions you may have about immunizations.
- Screen for post-partum depression.
Immunizations:
- Pentacel#2 (DTaP, HIB, IPV)
- Prevnar#2
- Rotavirus#2
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Post Partum Depression Assessment
- Hemoglobin Testing
Helpful Info:
6 Month Visit
Your baby is more moblie and probably able to sit up independently for short periods of time. Now is the time to start baby-proofing your house - if you haven't already done so. Also, you should move the mattress in your baby's crib down to the lowest level.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your baby’s weight, length and head size and record on a growth curve.
- Provide your baby’s immunizations.
- Discuss the introduction of fluoridated water to encourage the development of strong and healthy teeth. If you have city or rural water, your water is fluoridated. If you have well water, you should have your water tested for fluoride before offering it to your baby.
Immunizations:
- Pentacel#3 (DTaP, HIB, IPV)
- Prevnar#3
- Rotavirus#3
- Influenza vaccine (during flu season)
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Ages and Stages Questionnaire
Helpful Info:
9 Month Visit
Your baby may be starting to crawl, pulling to a stand and cruising on furniture. They are natural explorers and know no boundaries so make sure to create a safe environment and never leave them unattended unless they are in their crib.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your baby’s weight, length and head size and record on a growth curve.
- Discuss your baby's upcoming dental care. Your baby should see a dentist at 1 year of age. You should be brushing your child's teeth with an infant toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste.
Immunizations:
- HepB#3
- Influenza vaccine (during flu season)
- COVID
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Oral Health Surveillance
- Hemoglobin Test
- Lead Test
Helpful Info:
1 Year Visit
Welcome to the toddler years! At this age, you should transition your little one from formula to cow’s milk. If you are breast feeding, you may continue breast milk or choose to transition to cow's milk. Toddlers need 3 meals/day, 2-3 snack/day, and 16-24 ounces of whole cow's milk/day. Your toddler will eat many of the foods you eat, but be careful to avoid foods that can cause choking.
Also, it's time to change from bottles to sippy cups! It is much easier and healthier to make the change now than if you wait until they are older in order to avoid cavities and additional tears:)
Your toddler might be outgrowing their infant carrier car seat. Check the specifications on their seat. Remember to keep your toddler in a rear facing car seat until age 2.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your toddler's weight, length, and head size and record on a growth curve.
- Provide your toddler’s immunizations.
- Discuss dental health
Immunizations:
- HepA#1
- PCV13#4
- Hib#4
- Influenza vaccine (during flu season)
- COVID
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Oral Health Surveillance
Helpful Info:
15 Month Visit
Your toddler may be able to climb and run, so be sure to safety proof your home.
Poison control is available 24 hours a day: 1-800-222-1222 - keep this number handy in your cell phone and on your refrigerator.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your baby’s weight, length and head size and record on a growth curve.
- Provide your baby’s immunizations.
Immunizations:
- DTaP
- MMR
- Varicella
- Influenza vaccine (during flu season)
- COVID
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Anemia Surveillance
- Fluoride Varnish
Helpful Info:
18 Month Visit
At 18 months, your toddler understands much more than he or she can say in words. Use words to describe their feelings and gestures. Read and sing to them often. When reading, use simple words to talk about the pictures.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your child’s weight, length and head size and record on a growth curve.
- Provide your baby’s immunizations.
- Discuss dental health
- Discuss temper tantrums.
Immunizations:
- HepA #2
- Influenza vaccine (during flu season)
- COVID
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Ages and Stages Questionnaire
- MCHAT Questionnaire
- Hemoglobin Testing
- Lead Surveillance
- Oral Health Surveillance
Helpful Info:
2 Year Visit
At this age, your 2 year old may go from trying to be independent to clinging to you; this is normal. It is better for toddlers to play than to watch TV. Even having television playing in the background interrupts healthy toddler play - background music is a better choice.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your child’s weight, length, head size and body mass index and record on a growth curve.
- Most of our patients do not have immunizations due at this visit. Your child may need immunizations if they are behind on their shots.
- Review your child’s development with you using the MCHAT (Autism screening tool) questionnaire.
- Test for lead exposure with a finger prick in the office.
- Screen your baby for vision abnormalities with our ocular photoscreen device.
- Discuss dental health and apply fluoride varnish to your child's teeth.
- Discuss toilet training and time out.
Immunizations:
- HepA#2
- Flu vaccine (during flu season)
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- MCHAT Questionnaire
- Ages & Stages
- Anemia Surveillance
- Lead Surveillance
- Lead Test
Helpful Info:
2 1/2 Year Visit
Your little one is not not so little anymore and firmly in the toddler years. One moment they seem so capable and the next minute you realize how vunerable they truly are. This is the "do-it-myself time."
At this visit we will:
- Measure your child’s weight, length, head size and record on a growth curve
- Most of our patients do not have immunizations due at this visit.
- Discuss dental health (if they have not yet seen a dentist, they should!)
- Discuss healthy meals/snacks, avoid food pouches and no or little juice.
Immunizations:
- Flu vaccine (during flu season)
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Ages & Stages Developmental Screening
Helpful Info:
3 Year Visit
Your child will begin to use their imagination and engage in make believe play. Toys for dress up and make believe are important at this age. Read books, sing songs and play rhyming games with your child each day.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your child’s weight, height and body mass index and record on a growth curve.
- Most of our patients do not have immunizations due at this visit. Your child may need immunizations if they are behind on their shots or during flu season.
- Discuss dental health and apply fluoride varnish to your child's teeth.
Immunizations:
- Flu vaccine (during flu season)
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Anemia Surveillance
- Lead Surveillance
- Oral Health Surveillance
- Vision Testing
Helpful Info:
4 Year Visit
Four year olds often like to sing, dance and act. They like to tell "tall tales" and make up stories. Enjoy these fun moments with your little one! Parents should continue to help with brushing teeth even though your child will want to do it all by themselves.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your child’s weight, height and body mass index and record on a growth curve.
- Provide your child's immunizations.
- Discuss dental health.
Immunizations:
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Hemoglobin Testing
- Lead Surveillance
- Oral Health Surveillance
- Vision Testing
Helpful Info:
5 Year Visit
At this age, your child needs more independence. However, you need to set clear limits. A regular bedtime and consistent bedtime routine are important. Be a great role model. Show an interest in what they are learning.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your child’s weight, height and body mass index and record on a growth curve.
- Review your child’s speech and development.
- Discuss exercise and nutrition.
- Discuss kindergarten readiness.
- Discuss dental health.
Immunizations:
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Hemoglobin Testing
- Lead Surveillance
- Oral Health Surveillance
- Vision Testing
- Hearing Testing
Helpful Info:
6 Year Visit
Encourage good learning by helping your child organize a distraction-free time to do homework and ensuring eleven hours of sleep each night. Teach your child what to do if there is a fire and have practice fire drills.
There are no scheduled immunizations at this visit unless your child is behind and needs to catch up on immunizations.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your child’s weight, height and body mass index and record on a growth curve.
- Screen your child's hearing and vision.
- Review your child’s school performance and development.
- Discuss exercise and nutrition.
- Review safety issues.
Immunizations:
- Flu vaccine (during flu season)
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Hemoglobin Testing
- Lead Surveillance Oral Health Surveillance
- Vision Testing
Helpful Info:
7 Year Visit
Continue to encourage good nutrition and exercise for your child. This is the time he or she is building good health habits for a lifetime! There are no scheduled immunizations at this visit unless your child is behind and needs to catch up on immunizations.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your child’s weight, height and body mass index and record on a growth curve.
- Review your child’s school performance and development.
- Discuss exercise and nutrition.
- Review safety issues.
Immunizations:
- Flu vaccine (during flu season)
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Vision Surveillance
- Hemoglobin Testing
Helpful Info:
8 Year Visit
Positive self-image is important as your child begins to enter the changes that come with puberty. Empower them to feel good about themselves, their interaction with others and praise their effort more than the outcome.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your child’s weight, height and body mass index and record on a growth curve
- Measure your child’s blood pressure and heart rate
- Screen your child's vision and hearing
- Review your child’s school performance and development
- Discuss involvement in activities
- Discuss sleep
- Discuss anticipating pubertal changes
- Discuss exercise and nutrition
- Review safety issues
Immunizations:
- Flu vaccine (during flu season)
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Vision Testing
- Hemoglobin Testing
Helpful Info:
9 Year Visit
Your child be is becoming more responsible and will be able to take on more tasks such as taking care of his/her own room. He or she may also start reading independently for pleasure.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your child’s weight, height and body mass index and record on a growth curve.
- Review your child’s school performance and development.
- Discuss exercise and nutrition.
- Review safety issues.
Immunizations:
- Flu vaccine (during flu season)
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Vision Surveillance
- Hemoglobin Testing
- Lipid Profile testing (completed once between 9-11 years)
Helpful Info:
10 Year Visit
Your ten year old still requires adult supervision when you are away. Watching TV with your child allows you to discuss any controversial topics that may come up, but limit screen time to 2 hours per day. Family mealtime is important to keeping communication open and fostering healthy lives.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your child’s weight, height, and body mass index and record on a growth curve
- Measure your child’s blood pressure and heart rate
- Screen your child's vision and hearing
- Provide your child’s immunizations
- Review your child’s school performance and development
- Discuss involvement in activities and peer relationships
- Discuss sleep
- Discuss exercise and nutrition
- Discuss puberty changes to expect or that may be starting to occur
Immunizations:
- Flu vaccine (during flu season)
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Vision Testing
- Hemoglobin Testing
- Lipid Profile (completed once between 9-11 years)
Helpful Info:
11 Year Visit
Your child might be transitioning to middle school at this age. He or she may be participating in more group activities and social groups. Expand your conversations about healthy living practices. Answer honestly when they have questions about puberty/sex, tobacco/smoking, drugs and alcohol.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your child’s weight, height, and body mass index and record on a growth curve.
- Provide your child’s immunizations.
- Screen your child for anemia and dysipidemia per AAP recommendations.
- Review your child’s school performance and development.
- Discuss exercise and nutrition.
- Discuss puberty changes to expect or that may be starting to occur.
Immunizations:
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Vision Surveillance
- Hemoglobin Testing
- Lipid Profile (completed once between 9-11 years)
Helpful Info:
12 Year Visit
Your child is in middle school and transitioning to a teenager. Time flies! Continue your conversations about healthy living practices and encourage open dialogue. Remember to answer honestly when they have questions about puberty/sex, tobacco/smoking, drugs and alcohol. Your child should be able to assume more responsibility for personal hygiene and chores.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your child’s weight, height, and body mass index and record on a growth curve.
- Screen your child's vision.
- Review your child’s school performance and development.
- Complete sports physical forms and discuss sport safety (if your child is participating in sports).
- Discuss exercise and nutrition, particularly in association with increased awareness of body image and diet.
- Discuss puberty changes to expect or that may be starting to occur.
Immunizations:
- HPV#2 (if not previously completed; series of 2; 11-12 years)
- Flu vaccine (during flu season)
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Hemoglobin Testing
- Dyslipidemia Surveillance
- Adolescent Depression Screening
- Vision Testing
Helpful Info:
13 Year Visit
You've got a teenager! Friends are becoming more significant in their life but your kiddo needs you now as much as they ever have. It might not seem that way at times but they depend on you more than THEY know. Foster open communication with them. They are learning to grow up and you are their most important teacher and guide. Answer honestly when they have questions about puberty/sex, tobacco/smoking, drugs and alcohol.
Also, in teen years it's important that they can speak with their pediatrician on their own.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your child’s weight, height, and body mass index and record on a growth curve.
- Review your child’s school performance and development.
- Complete sports physical forms and discuss sport safety (if your child is participating in sports).
- Discuss exercise and nutrition, particularly in association with increased awareness of body image and diet.
- Discuss puberty changes to expect or that may be starting to occur.
Immunizations:
- Flu vaccine (during flu season)
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Vision Surveillance
- Hemoglobin Testing
- Adolescent Depression Screening
Helpful Info:
14 Year Visit
Your teen will most likely be participating in extracurricular activities and have more time away from adult supervision. Have conversations about what they know to be right and wrong and encourage them to trust themselves and not be pursuaded by others. Empower them by letting them know that it is better to lead in the right direction than to follow in the wrong direction. Make certain that they have an adult they can confide in if they are unable to communicate with you. Answer honestly when they have questions about puberty/sex, tobacco/smoking, drugs and alcohol.
Also, in teen years it's important that they can speak with their pediatrician on their own.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your child’s weight, height, and body mass index and record on a growth curve.
- Complete sports physical forms and discuss sport safety (if your child is participating in sports).
- Review your child’s school performance and development.
- Discuss exercise and nutrition, particularly in association with increased awareness of body image and diet.
Immunizations:
- Flu vaccine (during flu season)
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Vision Surveillance
- Hemoglobin Testing
- Adolescent Depression Screening
Helpful Info:
15 Year Visit
Your teen is in high school! Family relationships continue to be important, but it is also normal for teens to place more and more emphasis on their peer relationships. Continue to have conversations about what they know to be right and wrong and encourage them to trust themselves and not be pursuaded by others. Empower them by letting them know that it is better to lead in the right direction than to follow in the wrong direction. Make certain that they have an adult they can confide in if they are unable to communicate with you. Answer honestly when they have questions about puberty/sex, tobacco/smoking, drugs and alcohol.
Also, in teen years it's important that they can speak with their pediatrician on their own.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your child’s weight and length and record on a growth curve.
- Complete sports physical forms and discuss sport safety (if your child is participating in sports).
- Review your child’s school performance.
- Reinforce healthy choices and risk behavior avoidance.
- Perform any recommended yearly screening tests (depending on family history, sexual activity etc.).
- Discuss exercise and nutrition, particularly in association with increased awareness of body image and diet.
- Complete driver's permit.
Immunizations:
- Flu vaccine (during flu season)
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Adolescent Depression Screening
- Vision Testing
- Hemoglobin Test
Helpful Info:
16 Year Visit
Congratulations! You are solidly in the teen years! It is exciting to see the wonderful person your child is becoming. Possible conflict can arise at this time as your teen assesses your family values versus those of culture and peers. Keep the lines of communication open and give them additional responsibility while being present for them when they inevitably make mistakes. Be supportive and allow them to develop resilience and self-pride. During the teen years, we provide the opportunity for your teen to have at least a portion of the visit with the parent out of the room.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your teen’s weight, height and body mass index and record on a growth curve
- Measure your teen’s blood pressure and heart rate
- Complete sports physical forms and discuss sport safety (if your teen is participating in sports, please bring any forms to the appointment)
- Review your teen’s school performance and development
- Discuss involvement in activities and peer relationships/dating
- Discuss sleep
- Discuss exercise and nutrition, particularly in association with increased awareness of body image and diet
- Reinforce healthy choices and risk behavior avoidance
- Perform any recommended yearly screening tests (depending on family history, sexual activity etc.)
Immunizations:
- MCV4#2
- Flu vaccine (during flu season)
- COVID
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Vision Testing
- Anemia Testing
- Urine Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Testing
Helpful Info:
17-18 Year Visit
Your teenager is becoming a young adult! As they get closer to finishing high school and entering the adult world, remember, making mistakes are a normal part of life. Continue to provide emotional support and guidance for them during this time. Keep an open line of communication regardless of how self-assured they may seem. They still have so much to learn.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your child’s weight, height, and body mass index and record on a growth curve.
- Complete sports physical forms and discuss sport safety (if your child is participating in sports).
- Review your child’s school performance.
- Perform any recommended yearly screening tests (depending on family history, sexual activity etc.).
- Reinforce healthy choices and risk behavior avoidance.
- Discuss exercise and nutrition, particularly in association with increased awareness of body image and diet.
Immunizations:
- MenB (optional)
- Flu vaccine (during flu season)
- COVID
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Vision Surveillance
- Adolescent Depression Screen
- Urine Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Testing
- Hemoglobin Testing
Helpful Info:
19 Year Visit and Beyond
Your child is now transitioning to adult life! They will still look to you for support and guidance, but will be more on their own when it comes to decision making.
At this visit we will:
- Measure your child’s weight, height and body mass index and record on a growth curve.
- Provide immunizations.
- Screen your child's vision.
- Discuss transitions to life after high school—whether that be work, travel, vocational school or college.
- Discuss importance of responsible decision making and recognizing healthy -vs- unhealthy relationships.
- Complete college physical forms and any required college screening labs/tests.
- Perform any recommended yearly screening tests (depending on family history, sexual activity etc.).
- Reinforce healthy choices and risk behavior avoidance.
- Transition your child to an adult care provider.
Immunizations:
- MenB (optional)
- Flu vaccine (during flu season)
- COVID
Tests/Screens/Assessments:
- Hemoglobin Testing
- Dyslipidemia Surveillance
- Adolescent Depression Screening
- Vision Testing
- Urine Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Testing
Helpful Info:
