Children’s Annual Wellness Checks

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends annual wellness checks starting at age 3, every year through to age 21.

Reach out to your child's pediatric primary care physician to schedule an annual wellness check/physical now. Unlike sick visits, where doctors diagnose and treat a current illness, a wellness check covers a wide range of health topics, appropriate to your child’s age.

During the appointment you may want to discuss concerns you have about your child's behavior or mental health, his or her inability to reach milestones or even noticeable speech delays.

What Happens During Child Wellness Exams?

• A complete head-to-toe physical examination.
• Checks of vision, hearing, cholesterol, and blood pressure at recommended ages, plus autism screening.
• Growth and development assessments.
• Immunization updates, if needed.

Teen Wellness Exam

For teens there is time for a confidential conversation that may include healthy habits and possible risky behaviors, or just time for a teen to discuss their personal concerns.

The wellness exam should give you time to talk about topics like:

• Healthy eating
• Sleeping
• Physical activity
• How your child’s doing in school, at home, and during activities