Preparing for Your Child’s Next Well Child Checkup

Well child checkups are regular medical appointments for children. These visits track your child’s growth and development, and they allow you to discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider. While a doctor will guide the visit, preparing ahead of time helps the appointment run smoothly. Here is more information about how to prepare for your child’s next checkup:

Gather Documents

Having your child’s records ready may simplify the check-in process. You might need your insurance card and identification. Before you leave home, you should also locate any forms that the doctor’s office or your child’s school requires. Put these documents in a dedicated folder, so you can find them easily when you arrive.

Document Medications

Maintaining a current list of your child’s medications is a helpful practice. Create a list of all prescription names, and you should also note any over-the-counter medicines or supplements your child takes regularly. This information gives the provider a complete picture of your child’s health.

A detailed medication list might include:

• Name of medication
• Dosage amount
• Frequency of use

To save time, jot down these details before the well child checkup. The provider will review this list, so keeping it accurate is beneficial. You can then update it after the visit if any changes are made. Keeping this list readily available can also be helpful in emergencies or when consulting with other healthcare professionals.

List Questions

Since you may have questions about your child’s health, it is a good idea to write these questions down before the appointment. Bring a notebook and pen with you, and you can add to your list if you think of something else in the waiting room. Having your questions written down helps you remember them during the discussion with the provider.

Your questions can cover a range of topics, and you may ask about development or diet. Since appointment times are limited, preparing your questions helps focus the conversation. This allows you to get the information you need about your child.

This preparation allows you to address topics such as sleep patterns. You may also want to discuss social behaviors. Whatever your concerns are, writing them down makes them easier to bring up. This organized approach makes sure that your concerns are prioritized, making the most of your time with your provider.

Bring Comfort Items

A doctor’s office can be an unfamiliar place for a child. Bringing a favorite toy or a special blanket can provide comfort. You can pack these items in a bag, and your child will have them if they need them. These items may be effective:

• Stuffed animal or doll
• Blanket
• Book or picture book
• Game or puzzle
• Playlist or set of headphones 

Schedule Well Child Checkups

Regular checkups occur on a set schedule. Your provider’s office will tell you when the next appointment is due, so you can plan accordingly. Booking the next visit before you leave the office is often a convenient option. This maintains the recommended timeline for your child’s care. Contact a clinic today to schedule your child’s next appointment.