What is a well visit?
A well visit, also known as a well-child visit, checkup, or physical, is a routine medical appointment focused on preventive care. During this yearly appointment, our experienced providers monitor your child’s growth, development, and overall health, while also providing guidance for each stage of their journey from birth to age 21.
How far in advance should I schedule a well visit?
We recommend scheduling well visits two months in advance to ensure your preferred provider and a wider range of scheduling options, especially during the busy summer season for school and college-age kids. Our schedule is typically available up to three months in advance.
How can I prepare for my visit?
Prior to each visit, you will receive a text message or email from Phreesia, through which you can check in and complete paperwork online.
Discover the AAP’s Bright Futures Parent and Patient Educational Handouts, providing valuable guidance during well-child visits, and available in multiple languages to suit your family’s needs.
Well-Child Visit Schedule
From birth to age 21, we’re here to be your family’s partner in health. Click on your child’s age to find out what to expect at their next appointment.
3 to 5 days
Congratulations on welcoming your new baby! We understand that the early days of parenthood can be both exciting and challenging. To support you during this special time, we offer an extended visit designed for our new parents. During this visit, you’ll have the opportunity to meet our newborn specialist and lactation consultant, Barbara Cossman, who will provide valuable guidance and support.
Newborn well-child visits begin at one month. Until then, we will see your baby at scheduled newborn follow-up visits.
What to expect during this visit and any other newborn follow-ups:
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- Growth: Measure and weigh your baby
- Development: Perform a physical exam and observe your baby’s development and behavior
- Nutrition: Discuss essential aspects of your baby’s nutrition, whether it’s breastfeeding, formula feeding, or the need for Vitamin D supplements
- Safety: Address any safety concerns you may have and provide guidance on creating a safe environment for your little one
Screenings: None today, but we’ll review the hospital screenings
Immunization: Hepatitis B #1 (if they did not receive it at hospital)
What to bring: Please bring any hospital paperwork related to your baby’s discharge weight or any complications during pregnancy or birth. Feel free to bring all your questions – we’re here to provide guidance every step of the way.
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Checkup Checklist
1 month
Your baby is growing and changing every day. Feeding, sleeping, and other everyday aspects may be on your mind. At this visit, we’ll focus on ensuring their healthy development as well as answer all your questions.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Measure and weigh your baby
- Development: Perform a physical exam and observe your baby’s development and behavior
- Nutrition: Discuss your baby’s nutrition – breastfeeding, formula, Vitamin D supplements
- Safety: Ensure your baby’s safety by following safe sleep practices and minimizing potential hazards
Screenings: Postpartum Depression Screening
Immunization: Hepatitis B #2
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Checkup Checklist
2 months
Welcome to the two-month milestone with your little one! Your baby is growing fast and becoming more aware of the world around them. You might notice some fussy moments – completely normal and they will soon outgrow it. Our team is here to provide you with the support and guidance you need on your parenting journey.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Record your baby’s weight, length, and head size, and track their growth curve
- Development: Perform a physical exam, observe your baby’s development and behavior, and make sure they’re on track for their age
- Nutrition: Discuss your baby’s nutrition – breastfeeding, formula, Vitamin D supplements; avoid honey and corn syrup
- Safety: Provide advice on keeping your baby safe. For example, proper sleep positioning, choking hazards, water temperature, and drowning. Remember, you should never leave your baby alone.
Screenings: Postpartum Depression Screening, Cardiac Screening, Hip Dysplasia Risk Assessment
Immunization: Pentacel #1, Prevnar #1, Rotateq #1
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Checkup Checklist
4 months
Your baby is growing and becoming more interactive and expressive. They may be cooing for your attention and even sharing a little chuckle as you play and interact with them. Let’s make sure their growth and well-being are on track.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Record your baby’s weight, length, and head size, and track their growth curve
- Development: Perform a physical exam, observe your baby’s development and behavior
- Nutrition: Discuss your baby’s nutrition, including when to begin introducing solid foods
- Safety: Provide age-appropriate safety guidance; remember not to leave your baby unattended, especially on elevated surfaces
Screenings: Postpartum Depression Screening, Hip Dysplasia Risk Assessment
Immunization: Pentacel #2, Prevnar #2, Rotateq #2
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Checkup Checklist
6 months
Happy half-birthday to your beautiful baby! Baby is getting bigger and may be becoming more mobile, so make sure to baby-proof your home and adjust their crib to the lowest level for safety. Remember to keep the crib bare (no loose bedding or soft objects). Additionally, we’d like to chat about how you’re doing postpartum.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Record your baby’s weight, length, and head size, and track their growth curve
- Development: Perform a physical exam, observe your baby’s development and behavior
- Nutrition: Discuss your baby’s nutrition – breastfeeding, formula, Vitamin D supplements; guidance with solids, allergenic foods, water source, and introducing a sippy cup
- Safety: Discuss maintaining a safe environment for baby
Screenings: Postpartum Depression Screening, Lead Screening
Immunization: Pentacel #3, Prevnar #3, Rotateq #3, Influenza #1 during flu season (booster in 30 days)
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Checkup Checklist
9 months
Your little one is blossoming by the day! Your baby might be achieving the milestone of sitting up independently and gearing up for those first crawling adventures. We’re here to let you know what’s in store as they become increasingly active and mobile.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Record your baby’s weight, length, and head size, and track their growth curve
- Development: Perform a physical exam, observe your baby’s development and behavior
- Nutrition: Discuss your baby’s nutrition – breastfeeding, formula, Vitamin D supplements; guidance with solids and feeding routine
- Safety: Discuss keeping your baby safe
Screenings: Developmental Screening, Lead Screening, CBC (Complete Blood Count) – Finger/Toe Stick, Influenza #1 during flu season (booster in 30 days)
Immunization: Hepatitis B #3
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Checkup Checklist
12 months
Happy first birthday to your little one! One year of life brings about all kinds of changes and challenges. We’re excited to talk about all of their milestones at this visit, as well as answer all of your questions.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Record your baby’s weight, length, and head size, and track their growth curve
- Development: Perform a physical exam, observe your baby’s development and behavior; recommend dental exam
- Nutrition: Discuss your baby’s nutrition – breastfeeding, formula, Vitamin D supplements; guidance with solids and feeding routine
- Safety: Discuss the safety of your baby’s environment
Screenings: Lead Screening, Fluoride Treatment (optional)
Immunization: MMR #1, Hepatitis A #1
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Checkup Checklist
15 months
You’ve got a little explorer on your hands! From tentative steps to speedy sprints, your toddler’s mobility is improving every day. Now’s a good time to discuss how to ensure their safety during these active adventures. To foster your toddler’s independence and reduce potential conflicts, begin encouraging choices. This can be as simple as providing them with two options that are suitable to you (like letting them choose between two bedtime stories).
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Record your toddler’s weight, length, and head size, and track their growth curve
- Development: Perform a physical exam, observe your toddler’s development and behavior
- Nutrition: Discuss your toddler’s nutrition
- Safety: Discuss the safety of your child’s environment
Screenings: none
Immunization: Varivax #1, Prevnar #4
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Checkup Checklist
18 months
Your toddler is mastering new skills like climbing onto furniture, clapping, and more. During this phase, they might oscillate between seeking independence and clinging to you. This back-and-forth is a natural part of their development as they remind themselves of their secure emotional foundation, which empowers them to explore. It’s a great time to exercise extra patience and maintain a sense of humor as you navigate the challenge of setting boundaries and consistently reinforcing them.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Record your toddler’s weight, length, and head size, and track their growth curve
- Development: Perform a physical exam, observe your toddler’s development and behavior
- Nutrition: Discuss your toddler’s nutrition
- Safety: Discuss how to keep your child safe from injury and other harms
Screenings: Developmental Screening, MCHAT (Autism screening), Lead Screening, Fluoride Treatment (optional)
Immunization: Pentacel #4, Hepatitis A #2 (6 months after #1)
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Checkup Checklist
2 years (24 months)
Your toddler is entering a crucial phase of social and emotional development. They’re growing more curious and expressive, and even the smallest things can trigger their reactions as they start to build a connection with the world. Your role as a positive and solution-oriented role model is essential during this stage. Let’s continue to monitor their health and development to ensure they’re progressing as expected.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Record your toddler’s weight, length, and head size, and track their growth curve
- Development: Perform a physical exam, discuss toddlerhood issues
- Nutrition: Discuss your toddler’s nutrition
- Safety: Address your safety questions and provide advice on keeping your little one safe outdoors and at home
Screenings: MCHAT (Autism screening), Lead Screening, CBC (Complete Blood Test) – Finger/Toe prick, Flouride treatment (optional)
Immunization: none if up to date
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Checkup Checklist
2.5 years (30 months)
Your toddler’s curiosity and personality are blooming. They’re becoming more vocal, and their play activities are evolving. They’re gaining better control over their motor skills and learning how to use their bodies. Some children prefer routines and order, while others explore both independent and collaborative play. Let’s continue to monitor their health and development to ensure they’re progressing as expected.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Record your toddler’s weight, length, and head size, and track their growth curve
- Development: Discuss potty training and developmental progress – with a focus on language and social development
- Nutrition: Discuss your toddler’s nutrition
- Safety: Discuss safety and prevention of unintentional injury
Screenings: Developmental Screening
Immunization: none if up to date
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Checkup Checklist
3 years
Your toddler is becoming more independent and inquisitive. They’re now capable of expressing their desires clearly, thus marking the beginning of the negotiation phase. They may have a strong desire to explore and learn, but their judgment is still developing. Monitoring them closely is essential to ensure their safety. Together, let’s ensure their health and development continue to thrive.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Record your toddler’s weight, length, and head size, and track their growth curve
- Development: Perform a physical exam, discuss developmental progress
- Nutrition: Discuss your child’s nutrition
- Safety: Discuss safety and prevention of unintentional injury
Screenings: Lead Screening, Cardiac, Developmental Screening (if not done at 30 months)
Immunization: none if up to date
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Checkup Checklist
4 years
It’s the age of questions, questions, and more questions! Your child’s personality and interests are blossoming, and their curiosity knows no bounds. They’re beginning to assert their independence, taking on tasks like dressing and bathroom visits solo. Striking a balance between privacy and safety for children at this stage is crucial. We’re here to make sure their health and readiness for school are in top shape.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Measure and weigh your child
- Development: Perform a physical exam, discuss school readiness, conduct a hearing and vision exam
- Nutrition: Discuss your child’s nutrition and eating habits
- Safety: Discuss your child’s safety in their environment and how you can keep them secure as they explore their newfound independence
Screenings: Lead Screening, Hearing and Vision
Immunization: Quadracel, MMR #2, Varivax #2
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Checkup Checklist
5 years
Your child is reaching a significant milestone—beginning school! They are developing a sense of independence as they start building friendships. They may become more expressive, with a growing interest in sports and activities. It’s our goal to make sure they’re well-prepared, both in terms of their health and academic readiness.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Measure and weigh your child
- Development: Perform a physical exam, discuss school readiness, conduct a hearing and vision exam (if not done at 4 years)
- Nutrition: Discuss your child’s nutrition and eating habits
- Safety: Discuss personal safety, street safety, as well as safety related to any sports or activities they’re getting involved in
Screenings: Lead Screening, Hearing and Vision (if not performed at 4-year visit)
Immunization: Vaccine catch-up
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Checkup Checklist
6 years
As your child enters the elementary school years, their growth and experiences are molding their future. Their thoughts and emotions are maturing, and they’re starting to explore a wider world through school. It’s crucial to have conversations with them about this transition, addressing any questions and concerns. Together, we’ll ensure they embark on this new journey in good health.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Measure and weigh your child
- Development: Perform a physical exam, discuss school performance
- Nutrition: Discuss your child’s nutrition
- Safety: Ensure your child feels safe at school, at home, and in the neighborhood; provide them with general safety tips
Screenings: Lead Screening
Immunization: none
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Checkup Checklist
7 years
Your child’s social circle is expanding. This is the time to make sure they’re building good health habits. Let’s make sure their physical and emotional growth aligns with their new experiences.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Measure and weigh your child
- Development: Perform a physical exam, discuss friendships and interactions
- Nutrition: Discuss your child’s nutrition and healthy eating
- Safety: Provide age-appropriate safety guidance
Screenings: Cardiac
Immunization: none
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Bright Futures Patient Handout
8 years
Your child’s interests are taking shape and school life is becoming more demanding. Let’s ensure their health is aligned with their growing passions.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Measure and weigh your child
- Development: Perform a physical exam, discuss academic progress, hobbies, and extracurricular activities
- Nutrition: Discuss your child’s nutrition
- Safety: Provide age-appropriate safety guidance
Screenings: none
Immunization: none
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Bright Futures Patient Handout
9 & 10 years
Our focus shifts to school-related challenges, friendships, and emotional well-being. We discuss school performance and sports involvement and provide guidance on maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Measure and weigh your child
- Development: Perform a physical exam, discuss academic progress, hobbies, and extracurricular activities
- Nutrition: Discuss your child’s nutrition
- Safety: Provide age-appropriate safety guidance
Screenings: none
Immunization: none
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Bright Futures Patient Handout
11 years
As your child transitions into pre-adolescence, there are unique healthcare considerations to keep in mind. Initiate discussions about healthy living practices, such as avoiding tobacco, drugs, and alcohol. It’s also essential to talk about media and internet safety.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Measure and weigh your child
- Development: Perform a physical exam, discuss pre-adolescence changes
- Nutrition: Discuss your child’s nutrition
- Safety: Provide age-appropriate safety guidance
Screenings: Depression Screening, Cardiac
Immunization: Tdap, MenQuadFi #1
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Bright Futures Patient Handout
12 years
The tween years have arrived! As your child enters pre-adolescence, there are specific health matters to discuss. Keep up your discussions about healthy living habits, including avoiding tobacco, drugs, and alcohol. Encourage your child to take on more responsibility for personal hygiene and chores.
During the adolescent years, we offer our patients the opportunity to have at least a portion of this visit without their parent/guardian in the room.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Measure and weigh your child
- Development: Perform a physical exam, discuss pre-adolescence changes
- Nutrition: Discuss your child’s nutrition
- Safety: Provide age-appropriate safety guidance
Screenings: Depression Screening
Immunization: Gardasil (2 doses total, at least 6 months between doses)
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Bright Futures Patient Handout
13 years
The teenage years are beginning. Let’s ensure your child is equipped with knowledge and support for this new phase.
During the adolescent years, we offer our patients the opportunity to have at least a portion of this visit without their parent/guardian in the room.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Measure and weigh your child
- Development: Perform a physical exam, discuss early teenage experiences
- Nutrition: Discuss your child’s nutrition
- Safety: Provide age-appropriate safety guidance
Screenings: Depression Screening
Immunization: Gardasil (if both doses not previously given, 2 doses total, at least 6 months between doses), catch up on missed vaccines
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Bright Futures Patient Handout
14 years
Your teen might be showing a growing interest in extracurricular activities. Have open discussions about risk-taking behaviors, driving, alcohol, drug use, family rules, and expectations. Touch on topics like media and internet safety. Make sure they have a trusted adult they can turn to for guidance if they ever find it difficult to communicate with you.
During the adolescent years, we offer our patients the opportunity to have at least a portion of this visit without their parent/guardian in the room.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Measure and weigh your teenager
- Development: Perform a physical exam, discuss adolescent journey
- Nutrition: Discuss your teenager’s nutrition
- Safety: Provide age-appropriate safety guidance
Screenings: Depression Screening, Cardiac
Immunization: Gardasil (if both doses not previously given, 2 doses total, at least 6 months between doses), catch up on missed vaccines
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Bright Futures Patient Handout
15 years
Navigating the teenage years involves skillfully tending to both physical and mental well-being. Your teen’s connections with peers and family continue to play a pivotal role during this time.
During the adolescent years, we offer our patients the opportunity to have at least a portion of this visit without their parent/guardian in the room.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Measure and weigh your teen
- Development: Perform a physical exam, discuss teenage life
- Nutrition: Discuss your teen’s nutrition
- Safety: Provide age-appropriate safety guidance
Screenings: Depression Screening
Immunization: Gardasil (if not previously given, 3 doses with a certain amount of time between doses), catch up on missed vaccines
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Bright Futures Patient Handout
16 years
Watching your child grow into the amazing person they’re becoming is one of our favorite aspects of pediatrics. As they navigate this phase, they might grapple with conflicts between their family values and those of their culture and peers. It’s important to keep lines of communication wide open. Encourage them to take on more responsibilities, while assuring your constant presence, especially when they inevitably face challenges. Help nurture their resilience and self-esteem by providing steadfast support.
Throughout adolescence, we offer our patients the chance to have part of this visit without their parent/guardian in the room. Once they’re over 16, they can come in on their own if they have signed consent.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Measure and weigh patient
- Development: Perform a physical exam, discuss driving and independence
- Nutrition: Discuss patient’s nutrition
- Safety: Provide age-appropriate safety guidance
Screenings: Depression Screening
Immunization: Menquadfi #2, Men B #1 (2 doses 1 month apart), catch up on missed vaccines
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Bright Futures Patient Handout
17 years
Your teenager is on the verge of adulthood, approaching the end of high school. It’s perfectly normal for them to make mistakes as they grow and become more independent. Your unwavering emotional support and guidance are invaluable during this crucial phase. To prepare them for college and beyond, open, honest conversations without judgment are essential. We will continue to prioritize their overall health as they embark on the next chapter of their journey.
Throughout adolescence, we offer our patients the chance to have part of this visit without their parent/guardian in the room. Once they’re over 16, they can come in on their own if they have signed consent.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Measure and weigh patient
- Development: Perform a physical exam, discuss college preparation
- Nutrition: Discuss patient’s nutrition
- Safety: Provide age-appropriate safety guidance
Screenings: Depression Screening
Immunization: MenB #2 if not previously completed
Helpful info: Bright Futures Parent Handout, Bright Futures Patient Handout
18 years
As your teenager steps into young adulthood, they’re embarking on a transformative journey – graduating high school, venturing into college, and encountering new environments. Some may be moving away for the first time. Embrace the fact that making mistakes is a natural part of the growing-up process. Continue to offer emotional support and guidance to help them navigate this significant transition.
Throughout adolescence, we offer our patients the chance to have part of this visit without their parent/guardian in the room. Once they’re over 16, they can come in on their own if they have signed consent.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Measure and weigh patient
- Development: Perform a physical exam, discuss entering adulthood
- Nutrition: Discuss patient’s nutrition
- Safety: Provide age-appropriate safety guidance
Screenings: Depression Screening, Cardiac
Immunization: Catch up on missed vaccines
Helpful info: Bright Futures Patient Handout
19+ years
Adulthood has officially begun. While your young adult may still seek your support and guidance, they’ll increasingly take the reins when it comes to decision-making. Whether you’re accompanying your young adult or they’re visiting on their own (with signed consent), we’re here to provide comprehensive care as they navigate early adulthood.
What to expect during this visit:
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- Growth: Measure and weigh patient
- Development: Perform a physical exam, discuss early adulthood
- Nutrition: Discuss patient’s nutrition
- Safety: Address any concerns and provide safety guidance; encourage responsible decision-making and recognizing healthy relationships
Screenings: none
Immunization: Catch up on missed vaccines
Helpful info: Bright Futures Patient Handout