Your well child is going to be a well kindergartener so soon! There might be some last immunizations to finish before school starts, and your healthcare provider will continue to track growth, development, and milestones.
At the appointment
Baby can still get the last immunizations for acellular pertussis, diphtheria, polio, tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella. After these, it will probably be several years before they need more vaccines.
At this age, some milestones your healthcare provider might look include counting to 10, listening well, telling a story, copying triangles and squares, tying a knot, and writing some letters and numbers.
Getting both an eye exam and a hearing exam before Baby starts kindergarten is definitely a good idea, and it’s required by some schools. If Baby has trouble hearing or seeing, being aware of it before school starts will allow you to give Baby the help they need to learn, play, and grow.
Questions to ask
Question time has been your realm for much of Baby‘s life, but now that they are older, feel free to let them do some of the asking! It’s a good way to build their relationship with their healthcare provider and learn about their health. If you want to have a few questions in your back pocket, here are some examples you might want to use:
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How can I encourage Baby to brush their teeth?
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What’s the best way to prepare Baby for starting school?
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Is there a recommended day-to-day diet or eating schedule?
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Is it time to teach Baby to swim?
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What kind of sports are best for children this age to stay active?
Sources
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“AAP Schedule of Well-Child Care Visits.” HealthyChildren.org. American Academy of Pediatrics. December 18, 2015. Web.
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“Well-child visits.” MedlinePlus. U.S. National Library of Medicine. February 5, 2015. Web.
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Heiting, Gary. “Eye exams for children.” All About Vision. AllAboutVision.com. July 2015. Web.
