Kids need care even when they are not sick. That’s why well-child visits play an important role in your child’s health. These visits help providers see how a child is growing and changing.

Babies need many visits in their first two years of life. After age 3, most kids need one checkup each year.

At a well-child visit, the provider may check your child's height, weight, blood pressure, heart rate, eyesight, hearing and more. These checks help show if your child is growing and developing in healthy ways. These visits help the provider find health problems early. When the provider finds a problem early, your child can get help sooner. Early care can lead to better health as your child grows.

Shots (or “vaccines “) are also part of many well-child visits. They can help protect children from serious illnesses. Staying on track with shots helps keep kids safe and healthy.

Well-child visits are a good time for parents to ask questions. You can talk about food, sleep, play, school and safety. Your child's provider can give tips that fit your child's age and needs.

Your Tufts Health RITogether plan covers well-child visits at no cost to you. 

If your child is due for a checkup, schedule an appointment as soon as you can. Having well-child visits as recommended is one way to enhance your child’s physical, emotional and social well-being.