You don’t have to wait until your child is sick to see the pediatrician. A well-child visit is a chance to check on their growth, talk about development and bring up the questions that come with each new stage.
Maybe bedtime has become a struggle. Maybe you’re wondering about eating habits, behavior or how things are going at school. These are useful things to discuss, even when your child seems healthy.
What happens at a checkup?
The visit usually includes a review of your child’s health history, an examination and a conversation about how they’re doing. The screenings and other care recommended will depend on their age, health history and individual needs.
Bring up your biggest concern early. That helps you and the doctor make the most of the time together. If something needs a closer look, your child may need another visit or follow-up care.
How often should children come in?
Babies and toddlers have checkups more often because so much changes in those early years. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends yearly well-child visits beginning at age three. Your child’s doctor can explain the timing and any extra visits they may need.
If you’ve just welcomed a baby, our newborn care guide explains how to arrange and prepare for the first visit.
A little preparation helps
Before the appointment, jot down the questions you don’t want to forget. You might want to ask about sleep, eating, development, behavior or school. Put the most important ones first.
Have your child’s available medical and vaccine records, a list of medicines and allergies, and the insurance information requested by the office. If you’re changing pediatricians or waiting for records, call us to discuss what you have and what is missing.
It can also help to explain the visit to your child in simple words and invite them to bring a question of their own.
Missed a checkup? Start with a call
Tell us your child’s age and when they last had a checkup, if you know. We’ll help you discuss the next appointment and which records to bring. Their doctor can review what care is needed.
If you also need school or sports forms, mention that when you call. Ask whether the exam or paperwork can be handled at the visit and whether there are separate scheduling or cost requirements.
Plan your visit to our Doral office
Call South Florida Pediatrics at (786) 360-2030. You can call before filling out registration forms. Dr. Roberto Uriel speaks English and Spanish.
Our office is at 3905 NW 107th Avenue, Suite 412, Doral, FL 33178, with free parking in the building. We’re open Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., and closed on weekends.
See our new-patient guide for paperwork and insurance information, or visit our appointments page. Confirm your exact insurance plan, network and expected costs with the office and your insurer before the visit.
This guide shares general information. Your child’s doctor will recommend care for their individual needs.