When to Start Kids Annual Check-ups: The Wise Parent's Guid

August 02, 2022

 You might be asking yourself, "when should I start taking my child to the doctor for check-ups?" It's a valid question and one that doesn't have a definitive answer. The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Every child is different and will require different care at different stages in their life. However, we can provide you with a general guide on when to start annual check-ups for your little one.

Photo by Derek Finch on Unsplash

Birth-18 Months

Well-baby check-ups are important in the first year and a half of your child's life. These appointments allow your doctor to monitor your child's growth and development and catch any potential problems early on. You should typically schedule a well-baby check-up once every month for the first six months, then every two months from six to twelve months, and finally, once every three to four months from twelve to eighteen months. However, you may need to schedule more or less frequent appointments depending on your child's individual needs. For example, if your baby was born premature or has a chronic health condition, you will likely need to see the doctor more often than healthy babies. Additionally, well-baby check-ups are a great time to ask your doctor any questions you may have about your child's health, development, or nutrition.


18 Months-Three Years

Once your child reaches eighteen months, you can start scheduling annual check-ups with their pediatrician. Annual check-ups are important for monitoring your child's growth and development and for catching any potential health problems early on. During these appointments, your doctor will likely measure your child's height and weight, check their vision and hearing, and administer any recommended vaccinations. They will also ask you questions about your child's eating habits, sleeping habits, behavior, and overall health.


Three Years and Up

Annual check-ups are also important for kids three years and older. However, these appointments may be less frequent, depending on your child's individual needs. For example, healthy children who don't have any chronic health conditions may only need to see the doctor every two to three years. During these appointments, your doctor will likely measure your child's height and weight, check their vision and hearing, administer any recommended vaccinations, and ask you questions about your eating habits, sleeping habits, behavior, and overall health. However, if your child has a chronic health condition or is taking medication for a medical condition, you will likely need to see the doctor more often.


Teeth, Eyes, and Hearing

In addition to general health check-ups, it's also important to take your child for regular dental, vision, and hearing check-ups. You should take your child for their first dental appointment around their first birthday or when their first tooth comes in. After that, you should schedule a dentist appointment every six months. It's also important to take your child for regular vision and hearing check-ups. Most children will need their vision checked at least once between the ages of three and five years old. And all children should have their hearing checked before they start school. If you have any concerns about your child's teeth, eyes, or hearing, be sure to talk to your doctor during their next check-up.

Photo by Wesley Tingey on Unsplash


Annual check-ups are important for kids of all ages. They allow your doctor to monitor your child's growth and development and catch any potential health problems early on. So be sure to schedule an appointment with your pediatrician today. And if you have any questions about when to start annual check-ups for your little one, be sure to ask their doctor during their next well-baby or annual check-up.


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1 comments

  1. Telemedicine is an excellent option available for families who live in locations where it is difficult to access in-person care for children.

    ReplyDelete

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