Well Child Visits

Why does my child need well-child visits?

Well-child visits are an important part of your child’s care, even when they feel healthy. These appointments allow our team to follow your child’s growth and development, identify concerns early, and provide guidance for each stage of childhood.

At Valencia Pediatrics, we also use these visits to build a lasting relationship with your family. They are an opportunity to discuss nutrition, sleep, behavior, learning, emotional well-being, and any questions you have about your child’s health. (healthychildren.org)

How often should my child have a well-child visit?

We follow the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Bright Futures recommendations:

• Newborns: A visit during the first few days of life, typically at 3–5 days old, with earlier follow-up when needed.
• Infants and toddlers: Visits at 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 24, and 30 months.
• Children and adolescents: Yearly visits beginning at age 3.

Additional appointments may be needed to follow growth, development, ongoing medical conditions, or other concerns. (healthychildren.org, aap.org)

What can I expect during a well-child visit?

Your visit begins with a conversation about your child’s health, development, and your family’s questions. We review relevant medical and family history, medications, and changes since the last appointment.

Depending on your child’s age, the visit includes:

• Measuring growth and reviewing growth patterns
• Performing a complete physical examination
• Discussing developmental milestones, behavior, and emotional health
• Offering guidance on feeding, nutrition, sleep, activity, and safety
• Reviewing recommended screenings and immunizations

As children grow, conversations also address school, friendships, puberty, and increasing independence. (aap.org)

Vaccines due at the visit are recommended according to the AAP immunization schedule and West Coast Health Alliance guidance. Our team will explain which vaccines are recommended and answer your questions.

What screenings or tests might my child need?

Screenings are selected according to your child’s age, health history, and individual risk factors. These may include vision and hearing checks, developmental and autism screening, and assessments of emotional or behavioral health. (aap.org, healthychildren.org)

Blood tests may be recommended at specific ages or when indicated—for example, to check for anemia, lead exposure, or cholesterol concerns. Your child does not necessarily need blood work at every well-child visit. (healthychildren.org)

We explain the purpose of recommended testing and coordinate laboratory services, follow-up appointments, or specialist referrals when needed.

What happens during a sick visit?

A sick visit focuses on a current illness, symptom, or minor injury. Our team reviews when symptoms started, examines your child, and determines whether testing or treatment is needed.

We provide care instructions, prescribe medication when appropriate, and explain what improvement to expect and when to seek additional care. Same-day sick appointments are available when scheduling allows.

Sick visits address immediate concerns; regular well-child visits provide dedicated time for preventive care and development.

When should I seek prompt or emergency care?

Contact our office promptly if your child has persistent vomiting or diarrhea, worsening symptoms, or signs of dehydration such as a dry mouth, fewer tears, or noticeably less urination. (healthychildren.org)

A baby younger than 3 months with a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher needs immediate medical evaluation. Contact a medical professional right away rather than waiting for a routine appointment. For older children, the duration of fever, other symptoms, and how your child looks and behaves also matter. (healthychildren.org)

Call 911 for severe breathing difficulty, unresponsiveness, or another life-threatening emergency. Head injuries accompanied by loss of consciousness, repeated vomiting, confusion, or worsening symptoms require urgent medical evaluation. (healthychildren.org)

Call or text Valencia Pediatrics to schedule your child’s next well-child visit or request a sick appointment.