Routine well visits with your pediatrician are so much more than a school or sports requirement. From infancy and toddlerhood through school age and into adolescence, your pediatrician is here to provide comprehensive care, screen for preventable conditions, discuss concerns, build a safe space with your child, and celebrate their milestones. Dr. Bernardez, from Orange Pediatric Care, shares the importance of well visits and some of the many assessments that pediatricians perform at each age.
From the moment you bring your baby home from the hospital, they begin to grow and develop rapidly. Whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one, there are many milestones we evaluate. Frequent well visits during the infant stage are essential for maintaining optimal health and development. Here are some physical and developmental screenings performed during the first year of your child's life.
Well visits during this period are crucial for tracking developmental milestones, identifying potential issues early on, and guiding nutrition, safety, and behavioral development. These appointments are not only about physical check-ups and vaccinations but also serve as a platform for parental education and support. Some things we address during your toddler's check-up are:
As children enter school, annual well visits become instrumental in monitoring physical and emotional well-being. As their daily routine and environments constantly change, there are new and exciting stages to discuss. Some things we address during your child's check-up at this age are:
During the preteen years, well visits take on added significance as adolescents undergo rapid physical, emotional, and social changes. Well visits serve as opportunities for building trust, fostering open communication, and empowering preteens to make informed decisions about their health. In addition to continued monitoring of the areas listed above, your pediatrician will also address:
Well visits serve as important opportunities for your doctor to monitor your childs’s physical and mental health development. Additionally, these visits foster vital connections between parents, children, and healthcare providers. These connections are especially important during adolescent years, so your child can build a relationship with another trusted adult that will help them navigate their transition into young adulthood. Pediatricians create a collaborative environment where questions are welcomed, concerns are addressed, and together, we ensure your child's health journey stays on course. By actively participating in these visits, you are playing a key role in your child's health and development. If your child is overdue or coming due for a well visit, please call your pediatricians office to schedule an appointment.