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Child checkup
well-child visit · pediatric checkup · school checkup · kindergarten checkup
The pediatrician checks how your child is growing and developing. Sometimes other doctors, tests, and vaccines are added to the visit.
On a schedule that depends on age, most often in the first year of life. Also before kindergarten, school, camp, and sports clubs.
⏱ Duration: usually 20 to 30 minutes with the pediatrician. Longer with other doctors
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Feeling well. If your child is ill, let the clinic know. The checkup and vaccine are usually rescheduled.
- Tests. If urine or blood tests are needed, ask the clinic how to collect urine and whether your child needs to fast.
- Mood. Calmly tell your child the doctor will see how they are growing. Do not scare them with shots.
What to bring
- Your child's documents and vaccination record
- Notes from past checkups and tests
- A diaper, a blanket, a bottle, or a snack
- A favorite toy
How it goes
- Your child is weighed and measured. For babies, the head size is measured too
- The pediatrician asks about sleep, eating, and development
- The doctor listens to the heart and lungs, looks at the throat and skin, and feels the belly
- The doctor checks development for age: how your child holds their head, walks, and talks
- The pediatrician may refer you to other doctors or for tests
- If a vaccine is due, the doctor will discuss it with you
What you'll feel
- The checkup itself does not hurt
- A baby may cry when undressed. This is normal
- If a vaccine is given, a quick prick
Afterwards
- The doctor gives advice and tells you when the next checkup is
- Write down questions that come up at home, for the next visit
- After a vaccine, you are usually advised to wait at the clinic for about 30 minutes
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Trouble breathing, a swollen face, or a rash all over right after a vaccine
- Seizures, floppiness, or your child is hard to wake
- A high fever in a baby under 3 months: call emergency services
Common questions
How often should I take my child to the pediatrician if all is well?
In the first year, usually every month, then less often, on your clinic's schedule. A separate checkup is needed before kindergarten and school.
Can we go to a checkup if my child has a runny nose?
Let the clinic know. The checkup can sometimes go ahead, but the vaccine is usually postponed until your child is well.