Why Well-Child Visits Matter for Your Child’s Health
Why Well-Child Visits Matter for Your Child’s Health
A child’s life is full of firsts—first steps, first words, first goals, first masterpieces. With each milestone, children grow not only in size but in skills, relationships, and confidence. These moments set the foundation for lifelong health and well-being.
That’s why pediatric care is unique. Your child’s health needs change as they grow, and regular well-child visits help ensure they’re meeting important developmental and health goals.
What Is a Well-Child Visit?
A well-child visit is more than a check-up—it’s a partnership between you and your pediatrician to support your child’s growth and development. During these visits, your provider will:
- Perform a physical exam and health screenings
- Give vaccinations and booster shots as needed
- Diagnose and treat illnesses, infections, or injuries
- Offer guidance on nutrition, safety, and fitness
- Answer your questions about growth and development
- Refer to specialists if needed
When Should My Child Have Well-Child Visits?
Pediatricians at University of Utah Health follow a schedule based on key developmental stages. Here’s what to expect:
- Newborn: Three to four days after birth
- Infant: Two weeks, two months, four months, six months, nine months
- Toddler: 12 months, 15 months, 18 months, 24 months, 30 months
- Age 3 and older: Once a year
These visits are critical for identifying concerns early and providing timely interventions.
“Regular visits allow us to identify developmental concerns at their earliest, which allows us to intervene with appropriate therapies at critical timepoints,” says Alanna Brickley, MD, a pediatrician at University of Utah Health.
Your Questions Matter
Parenting can feel overwhelming. Well-child visits are your chance to ask questions and get support. University of Utah Health providers can also connect you to helpful parenting resources.
Treating Your Child's "Barking Cough" at Home
Has your child got a bad cough that almost sounds like a seal? Hearing a child with croup is concerning to any parent. Learn about at-home treatments, how a pediatrician can help, and when it is time to go to the ER.
My Child Has Night Terrors—What Can I Do?
It can be hard to watch your child have night terrors—when they scream and cry inconsolably at night. Although night terrors usually stop eventually, learn to recognize signs that it may be something more serious, and when you should take your child to the doctor.
How to Make Your Child Comfortable While They Recover From the Flu
If your child comes down with the flu, there is, unfortunately, not much you can do except make them comfortable and wait for the virus to run its course. Learn what foods your child should eat, how much water they should drink, their medications, and when they can go back to school.
