New parents face a wide range of challenges when managing the care of their young children, including knowing when to take the child in for well-visits with a pediatrician. Because children are among the most vulnerable patients, it’s best to establish a consistent relationship with a doctor as soon as possible. You can get peace of mind by bringing your child in for a wellness visit with Dr. Heena Thakkar and Dr. Shilpa Pankaj at Peekaboo Pediatrics in Houston, TX.
Why Children Need Regular Checkups
From the time a child is born, parents must begin regular doctor appointments called well-child visits to ensure ongoing good health. At well-child visits, the doctor can accomplish the following goals:
- Keep track of the child’s growth and development.
- Identify any potential medical concerns, including behavioral disorders or developmental delays.
- Prescribe necessary medications or therapies.
- Establish a relationship and understanding, especially as related to care philosophies, with the child and family.
- Keep the child up to date on vaccinations.
What to Expect at a Well-Child Visit
At an annual wellness visit, your Houston, TX, pediatrician will have a chance to build a medical file for your child. The doctor will take the child’s weight and length or height at each visit to track growth each year. Your pediatrician will also order a blood panel and test the child’s stool and urine. After a full physical examination, including checking the child’s vitals (breathing, hearing, vision, abdomen, limbs, joint movement, and more), you’ll have a chance to answer questions you have about your child’s health and safety. You’ll also discuss the importance of key vaccinations and the vaccination schedule recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
How Often to Schedule a Well-Child Visit
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that families bring a newborn child in for the first checkup within the first week after coming home from the hospital. Thereafter, this is the general timeline for well-child visits:
- 1 month and 2 months old.
- Every two months up to six months old.
- Every three months up to 18 months old.
- Every six months up to 3 years old.
- Every year (minimum) thereafter.
Visit Your Child’s Pediatrician
As a parent, ensuring your child gets the best care and attention possible is the top priority. Call 713-861-4800 today to schedule a wellness visit with Dr. Thakkar or Dr. Pankaj at Peekaboo Pediatrics in Houston, TX.