The Importance of Well-Child Checks
Well-child checks or well-child visits are crucial for healthy development among children. These specific examinations are designed to monitor a child’s growth, development, and overall well-being and recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics at one, two, four, six, nine, 12, 15, 18, 24, and 30 months followed by yearly visits through age 21. These preventive visits are usually not combined with another type of visit to allow plenty of time for reviewing topics like:
Monitoring Growth and Development
Your healthcare provider will asses your child’s physical growth, motor skills, cognitive development, and language abilities. By tracking these milestones, doctors can identify any issues early on.
Vaccinations and Immunizations
Vaccines and immunizations are often administered during these appointments, to ensure that your child is up-to-date to protect from preventable diseases.
Nutritional Guidance
Your provider may also offer guidance on nutrition practices, such as the introduction of solid foods and maintaining a balanced diet.
Behavioral and Emotional Well-Being
Your healthcare provider will inquire about your child’s behavior, emotions, and social interactions. Identifying any signs of developmental or behavioral concerns allows for early intervention and support.
Parental Guidance and Education
Well-child checks provide an opportunity for parents to ask questions, seek guidance, and receive education on how to best support the growth of their child.
Why Well-Child Checks Matter
Well-child checks play a crucial role in early detection of potential health or developmental concerns, allowing for intervention and treatment. Additionally, these routine examinations build a relationship between the child, parents, and healthcare provider, establishing a medical home that provides consistent care.
Keeping vaccinations current and addressing health and developmental issues help to diminish the risk of specific diseases and illness. Lastly, parents benefit from valuable support and education, empowering them to make well-informed decisions regarding their child’s health and well-being.
Request a well-child check appointment with a NOAH provider here.
