5-6 years
5-6 years
THE FULL SCHEDULE — BIRTH TO 18
IN THIS VISIT
What we’ll check
Immunizations due
Screenings and safety
Guidance for this age
Feeding
What we’ll check
Height, weight, and BMI measured and plotted on growth curves. Blood pressure monitoring continues. Physical development tracked. Yearly vision screenings begin at age 5 due to increased media use; many children need additional visual acuity evaluations.
Immunizations due
No formal immunizations are due if all previous vaccinations completed. Catch-up vaccines can be completed during well visits. Flu shots in fall are recommended for all children.
Doses follow the current AAP and CDC schedule — ask us anything about them at the visit.
Screenings
Yearly vision screenings are recommended starting at age 5. Informal hearing checks occur during exam. Dental visits every six months recommended by AAP.
Safety at this age
Check car seat manufacturer instructions and Nevada Department of Public Safety website for appropriate safety seats for age group. Maintain smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and emergency escape routes. Avoid smoking around school-age child. Teach street safety including how and when to cross streets and looking for cars before entering crosswalks. Use sunscreen and helmets for riding toys. Ensure pet safety, trampoline safety, and swimming pool safety. Remove firearms from home or secure very securely away from child. Keep Poison Control number 1-800-222-1222 available.
Guidance for this age
Development: Child balances well on one foot, hops, and skips. Fine motor skills include tying knots and drawing people with 5-6 body parts. Child prints numbers and letters, knows colors, and can spell own name. Language articulation and skills are good. Child follows directions and dresses with minimal assistance. Behavior/discipline: School adaptation and schoolwork become important. Mental health and learning concerns should be addressed with provider assistance. Praise good behavior and accomplishments. Help child express feelings. Encourage free play. Sleep: Sleep is very important; children need 7-10 hours per night depending on individual needs. Screen time: "Avoid using social media, computers, IPads unless special circumstances. You are the best teacher!" Monitor increased media use. School: School readiness continues as important focus; kindergarten readiness should be discussed at visit.
Feeding
Offer variety of healthy foods/snacks including vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins. Help child choose healthy foods. Offer family meals and encourage breakfast eating. Limit sugar intake. Avoid fast foods, fried foods, and fatty foods to support healthy cholesterol/triglyceride development.
Due for this visit?
Book with your child’s primary provider. Best practice is to book the next well visit while you’re still in the office.
Book this visit
Call 702-564-8556
