Cumming Annual Pediatric Checkups for Preschoolers & School-Aged Children
Each year, Vickery Pediatrics welcomes children of all ages to our Cumming pediatrician office for routine checkups. These well-child visits are fairly regular in the early years, but from ages three and up they can be reduced to once every 12 months. With many physical, social and cognitive benefits, annual checkups for preschoolers and school-aged children are a necessary part of maintaining good health and preventing illness. And of course, if your child has any health concerns during the year, our attentive pediatricians are always available for you and your family.
Preschooler and School-Aged Well-Child Visits
During an annual checkup, your pediatrician will perform various tests that are dependent on your child’s age. For example, checking weight, height, blood pressure, hearing and vision are consistent tests that will be compared to general milestones for the child’s age. Other features of a preschooler and school-aged checkup will be introduced at the appropriate time. These can include discussions about toilet training, puberty and so on.
An annual pediatric checkup is also an important time to update immunizations. Maintaining a vaccine schedule can protect children against various health conditions and serious diseases. For example, many children between ages four to six receive a second dose or booster of the chickenpox vaccine and the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella vaccine).
Pediatric Development Advice During an Annual Checkup
Wellness checkups are a good time for parents to ask age-specific questions. Our pediatricians can give recommendations that address a child’s needs at any age, including the crucial time before they first attend school, and once they have started their formal education. These needs can include the following.
- Behavioral issues and testing boundaries.
- Poor sleeping patterns and inconsistent routines.
- Problems with communication or motor skills.
- Dietary requirements and picky eating.
Common Questions About Annual Checkups for Preschool and School-Aged Kids
Do I still need to arrange an annual checkup if my child had a physical at school?
Yes. Annual checkups with your pediatrician are more comprehensive and personalized than a physical exam at school. The relationship and understanding between a family and their pediatrician allows for a more thorough assessment.
What happens if my child has developmental problems?
Depending on the specific problem, your pediatrician may recommend additional tests, refer you to a specialist, continue monitoring the potential issue, or provide other appropriate remedies.
Is mental health part of an annual checkup for preschoolers and school-aged children?
Yes. A child’s emotional concerns can be addressed during annual checkups. For younger children, emotional issues often manifest as aggression, hyperactivity or social withdrawal. As a child grows up, it is also common to discuss anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges.
Routine Checkups for Preschool and School-Aged Kids in Cumming
Vickery Pediatrics provides annual checkups for preschoolers and school-aged children. If you are based in Cumming, Buford, Dawsonville, Gainesville, Johns Creek, Sugar Hill, Suwanee, Forsyth County or the surrounding areas, contact us to arrange a pediatric visit. For assistance, call (678) 990-2501 or request an appointment now.