As a parent, you want to make sure that your child is growing and developing normally and healthy. That is why pediatrician Dr. Albert Holloway at Payne & Holloway Pediatrics, located in Montgomery, AL, encourages all patients to maintain regular well-child care visits at their office.
When Do Well-Child Care Visits Start?
Well-child visits start at the birth of your baby and continue until they turn 18 years old.
What Happens During A Well-Child Visit With the Doctor?
Pediatrician Dr. Holloway and his staff, located in Montgomery, AL, will do the following at your child's well-child care visit:
- Perform a physical exam.
- Give the infant or child any necessary vaccinations or immunizations.
- Track and trend how your child is growing while asking about development and behavior.
- Discuss illness prevention, physical fitness, and nutrition.
- Review health and safety issues.
- Discuss how to handle emergencies or sudden illnesses
This visit is your time with the pediatrician to ask any questions or express any concerns with the child. Dr. Holloway and the staff at Payne & Holloway understand that they may be experts in children's health, but you, as the parent, are the experts on your child. Your input is essential.
Are Vaccines Safe for Children?
Vaccines and immunizations are a valid concern for parents, especially when you are a new mother with an infant. However, vaccinations are an essential part of your child's well-child visits because they play a role in keeping your child healthy. In addition, vaccines are proven safe for your child.
When Should I See Our Doctor for a Well-Child Care Visit?
Payne & Holloway Pediatrics staff will help guide you on when you should bring your child in for their well-child care visit, but a good rule of thumb is to consider when their vaccinations are due or at least annually.
During the child's first year, the visits are more frequent, and the time between visits gradually expands as they get older.
How Do I Know If My Child is Developing Normally?
Your physician will be able to review your child's growth and development at each visit. To do this, they look at your height and weight measurements and age-specific milestones.
Here are some milestones they look for in a child's first four years:
6 Months Old
- Respond to name
- Roll over
- Good hand-eye coordination
1 Year Old
- Take a few steps
- Say simple words like "da-da."
2 Years Old
- Say 2-4 word phrases
- Begin to run
- Show signs of potty training readiness
4 Years Old
- Interact socially with other kids
- Trace and copy letters and numbers
- Good language skills
We all go to the doctor when we are sick, but it is just as crucial for children to see their doctor when they are well. So call pediatrician Dr. Holloway today at Payne & Holloway Pediatrics at their office in Montgomery, AL, to make a well-child care visit appointment by calling (334) 244-7209.