A well-child exam is a physical and medical assessment of a child that is usually performed by pediatricians, general practitioners, doctors of osteopathy, or nurse practitioners. These exams are scheduled frequently during the first year of life, and then generally after a child turns two, he or she has one once a year.

Each visit the child receives a complete physical exam including assessment of their growth and development in order to find or prevent problems.

The child’s height, weight, and other important information is assessed and recorded. Hearing, vision, and other screening tests will be part of some visits.

Even if your child is healthy, well-child visits are a good time to focus on your child’s wellness. Talking about ways to improve care and prevent problems helps keep your child healthy.