The Importance of an Annual Physical

By Dr. Butterfield

At the IWS Children’s Clinic, we follow the guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics and recommend that all children have a yearly wellness visit. These check-ups are essential for monitoring your child’s growth, development, and overall health. Even if your child seems healthy, regular visits help catch potential issues early—before they become bigger concerns.

For example, I often see patients whose parents were unaware that their child had gained 20 or more pounds in just 18 months. That’s why we always provide parents with a copy of their child’s growth chart, vaccine record, and a Bright Futures handout filled with expert advice and guidance.

We recommend scheduling your child’s annual physical around their birthday to make it easier to remember. To get the most out of your visit:

• Bring a list of questions to discuss at the start of the appointment.
• Arrive 10 minutes early to ensure enough time to address all concerns.
• If possible, schedule one child per visit so your provider can give their full attention.

A yearly check-up ensures your child gets the care they deserve. Call us today to schedule an appointment!