Check in for a Checkup If your child sprains an ankle, complains of a sore throat, or develops a rash, you probably stop by the pediatrician’s office. But what about taking your child to the doctor when she isn’t sick? Should you schedule preventive checkups, too? Yes, says Howard L. Taras, M.D., associate clinical professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of California San Diego, and chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Committee on School Health. Checkups give your child’s doctor a chance to: When your child reaches puberty and beyond (beginning as early as fifth grade) it’s important for him to see a pediatrician every year or every other year, according to Taras and Yankas. “Growth is more profound during puberty,” Yankas explains. Your child should also be tested for muscle strength and scoliosis. Yankas says that pediatricians will also identify obesity early on. Being overweight will influence a child’s ability to participate in gym class and sports, and may also lead to future health problems. Advice for Athletes From the backyard to the playground, more U.S. kids than ever are playing games and competing in sports. Close to 6 million kids play on high-school teams; another 20 million join in recreational or competitive sports outside of school. Your child’s pediatrician can make sure that your child’s sports program – in or out of school – gets the right results. Each young athlete presents a unique picture of health, growth, physical maturity, and knowledge of basic skills. A complete medical exam will highlight your child’s physical strengths and weaknesses. This exam may help your child choose the sport that will be most rewarding. Your doctor can also offer guidance on proper diet and injury prevention for your young athlete. Source: American Academy of Pediatrics Reminders for Parents Know your health insurance benefits: Yankas advises parents to read the fine print on health insurance policies. If you’ve recently changed jobs, your family’s coverage may have changed. Find out whether your managed-care policy honors annual checkups. Before your child’s appointment:
