Your child’s body and mind are rapidly developing from the moment they’re born. It’s important for pediatricians to monitor their progress, so visits are recommended at certain milestones. Here’s a closer look at the preferred ages to schedule exams and what the doctor will look for.

Important Child Development Milestones

12 Months

The 12-month exam is the first of what’s called “well-child visits.” The doctor will check that your child can sit up alone, take several steps, and stand on their own. They’ll see that they can respond to basic questions and follow directions, make sounds similar to speech, and understand how to use simple tools, such as straws.

18 Months

During this well-child visit, pediatricians look for wider social development. They’ll want to know if your child shares and plays with others, shows varying degrees of affection to some, and explores on their own. Basic language or gestures like “yes” and “no,” the ability to walk or run, and to better use tools are also assessed.

24 Months

A 2-year-old should show the ability to learn, replicate, and adapt their actions. They’ll continue building social skills and can speak two- to four-word sentences. They should be able to find hidden items, build, and demonstrate other thinking and problem-solving skills. Pediatricians will check that they can run, climb, throw, kick, and stand on their tiptoes.

3 Years

Doctors check that 3-year-olds can easily run, climb, pedal a tricycle, and move up and down stairs. They’ll assess balance, joint mobility, and strength as well.

Cognitive assessments check that they can follow multistep directions, solve simple puzzles, and color. Words like “I,” “you,” and “we” should be part of their vocabulary. Your child should understand ownership, how to take turns, and play independently from parents. They’ll also demonstrate emotional responses to people, items, and situations.

4 Years

4-year-olds should demonstrate extensive physical and motor skill development, including hopping on one foot, catching items, and using spoons, forks, and other tools in various ways. They should demonstrate use of imagination, role-playing skills, and problem-solving with others.

Pediatricians will see that they can name colors and numbers, know how to count, can recall or create stories, and understand how items are similar and different. Children should have basic grammar skills, be able to sing, and readily express themselves through language at this age.

If it’s time for your child’s next well-child exam, turn to the pediatricians at Mante Pediatrics. This Chester, SC, practice offers a variety of behavioral and physical pediatric care. They address mental health issues like ADHD while also managing allergies, vaccines, and other basic care. Call (803) 385-2075 to schedule an exam today or visit their website to learn more about their services.