Well-Child Visits: A Guide for Parents
What are Well-Check Visits and Why Are They so Important?
The first two years of your baby’s life represent a crucial time in their growth and development, and keeping close tabs on their progress is of utmost importance. A Well-Check exam gives you the opportunity to monitor your baby’s health and growth with the help of a pediatrician to ensure that your baby has the best chance at reaching their developmental milestones with ease.
Keeping your baby on track with their check-ups can save their lives! Babies who miss more than half of their Well Check-ups are twice as likely to be at risk of serious illness and hospitalization in their first years of life. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that babies get checkups at 1, 2, 4,6, 9, 12, 15, 18, and 24 months after birth. At each visit the doctor or healthcare professional will:
- Perform a physical exam
- Perform a developmental assessment of your baby’s behavior and physical skills
- Administer the necessary CDC- recommended vaccines
What to Expect
Physical Exams
Your pediatrician will give your baby a complete age-appropriate body exam to determine if there are any signs of concern that would need to be addressed.
Developmental Milestones
Your pediatrician will evaluate your baby’s developmental milestones as well as their behavior and physical skills. Tracking these behaviors and skills will allow the pediatrician to determine if they are appropriate for your baby’s age and if there are any delays or areas of concern.
Vaccinations
Your pediatrician will administer the necessary vaccines according to your baby’s vaccination records and the CDC-recommended immunization schedule. If your baby is missing any vaccines, the pediatrician or primary care provider will administer them during the visit as well.
Remember, these checkups allow you to talk with your pediatrician and address any concerns or answer any questions you might have regarding your baby. Also, if during your visit is is determined that your child has not met certain developmental milestones for their age, you should not worry! Your pediatrician or primary care provider will communicate with you the necessary resources and information to ensure your baby receives the best care possible according to their needs.
