How Often Should My Toddler Have Check-ups?
Like adults, children and toddlers benefit from preventive medical care. In addition to catching and monitoring possible health issues and concerns, check-ups allow our pediatricians to evaluate your child’s development and ensure they’re hitting the designated milestones for their age group.
At Midwest Regional Health Services, our team of primary and urgent care doctors and specialists offer a range of adult and pediatric health services at our office in Omaha, Nebraska.
How often should my toddler have check-ups?
Every child is different and develops at their own pace, and your child may require more or less frequent check-ups and follow-up pediatric care depending on their health and activity levels. In general, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you schedule check-ups for your children according to the following schedule:
Every three to four months from their first to second birthday, every six months from ages two to three, and once a year after their third birthday, unless your pediatrician recommends more or less frequent visits.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) generally defines the toddler years as the period between the ages of one and three years old, when children typically begin to hit major developmental milestones in behavior, speech and language development, and mobility.
Does my child need a check-up even if they’re healthy?
Check-ups are recommended for all children, including healthy children. In addition to monitoring their development, well-child visits include a physical exam to check their reflexes, vision, speech, and hearing. A well-child visit is also where your child receives their immunizations.
In addition, regular check-ups give you and your child the opportunity to get to know and become comfortable with your pediatrician and other health care providers, and is the perfect opportunity to ask questions, get support, or share any concerns you may have about your child’s health and development.
What to expect at your toddler’s next check-up
Well-child visits and check-ups offer a comprehensive evaluation of your child’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being and development. They typically include a physical check-up, developmental review, vaccines and inoculations, and diagnostic tests like urine and blood work, if needed.
If your child needs documentation to start preschool or participate in an athletic program, Midwest Regional Health Services also offers sports physicals to make sure they’re healthy and fit enough to participate, and have the documentation they need.
If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s health and development, you don’t have to wait until their next scheduled check-up to give us a call. Our pediatric team is available to answer your questions and provide support when you need it.
For more information about well-child appointments and pediatric care, contact us today to schedule an appointment.