What is the well baby checkup?

pediatric well-baby visits are a critical part of childhood care. The examination is intended to assess the infant or young child's growth and development, recognize problems early and supply appropriate intervention, provide immunizations, instruct and educate the parents, and provide treatment for existing problems.

Preventive medicine is extremely important in childhood because it sets the stage for improved health and reduced disease risk as an adult. The typical well-baby visit will provide information about normal development, diet, general care, immunizations, the latest Infectious Diseases that are "going around," and other important advice information for parents.

There are several schedules for routine well baby visits. Two schedules are given below, a full schedule and an abbreviated schedule. Both are satisfactory in terms of well-baby care. Other variations exist.