The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends well-child visits/screenings, and immunizations at various times during your child’s life to prevent diseases/infections that can be avoided just by getting immunized. Also as important is a chance to monitor your child’s well-being physically and emotionally.
Well-child exams are a great opportunity for you to ask your Pediatric provider questions about your child’s development as well as for the provider to make sure your child is developing normally. Every child can be unique in the timing of their development.
Once you have delivered your baby the Pediatric visits start! The first visit is typically at 2 weeks for the first round of follow up screenings. The schedule of recommended immunizations may vary depending upon where you live, your child’s health, the type of vaccine and the vaccines available.
Birth, 1-2 months, 2 months, 4 months, 6 months,
6-18 months, 12-15 months, 12-23 months, 15-18 months, 4-6 years,
11-12 years, 16 years, 18 years (college entrance)
Well-Child visits often coincide with visits for immunizations where the Pediatric provider will examine your child and assess for appropriate screenings to assure your child is healthy and on track.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has a detailed summary on their Bright Futures page: brightfutures.aap.org.
3-5 days,1 month, 2 months, 4 months
6 months, 9 months,1 year (12 months), 2 years,
2.5 years, 3 years - age 21 YEARLY
Philosophy of well-child visits is to focus on developmental milestones, physical exam, screenings appropriate for your child’s age, immunizations, and anticipatory guidance (advice for current issues and future).
Well child and preventive visits are now covered by most insurance since the passing of the Affordable Care Act a few years ago. There is no reason not to schedule and attend these very important visits.