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Annual pediatric exams are an essential part of your child’s health. It’s important to ask questions during the checkup. These help you gauge your child’s health and development, and going forward, will help you improve their lifestyle. You can use the questions below for the best outcome and to build a better relationship with their pediatrician.

4 Key Questions for Your Child’s Pediatric Checkup

Is my child a healthy weight?

Childhood obesity can lead to significant health complications. Children may develop diabetes, asthma, and sleep disorders. Make sure your child is at their target weight. This is measured by body mass index (BMI). Children below the 5th percentile for their age, gender, and height are considered underweight, those below the 85th are healthy, those above the 85th are overweight, and those above the 95th are obese.

How can I ensure they’re receiving the nutrients they need?

pediatricsYour child needs a constant supply of nutrients. It’s not easy to deliver these if they’re a picky eater, which could lead to malnutrition or obesity if they only eat sugary foods. Start by making healthy foods more fun. Let your child pick out fruits and vegetables and then help you cook meals.

Try using new spices and interesting foods, as well. Don’t punish your child or force them to eat—they’ll only become more apprehensive. Instead, slowly introduce new vegetables to their meals so they can become used to seeing and eating them.

How can I get them to be more active?

Try enrolling them in intramural sports. It’s an excellent way to stay active and make friends. Encourage them to play during recess, and when they come home, go on a family walk. Teach them to turn off electronic devices and to get outdoors. Plan weekends at the park, a family bike ride, or swimming at the lake or public pool. All these exercises will burn excess calories and promote muscle growth.

How much electronics time should I give my child?

Too much time on a smartphone, in front of a TV, or at a computer can contribute to a sedentary lifestyle. The American Journal of Pediatrics advises that children aged 2 and over should receive no more than two hours of screen time each day. It’s important that you carefully monitor what they’re watching. It’s best to provide educational games and programs so they still benefit from electronics use.

 

 

If it’s time for your child’s next pediatric exam, the staff at HDR Healthcare Network will fulfill their needs. This Bronx, NY, health and urgent care center offers essential pediatric health services, including checkups and sports physicals. They welcome patients of every age and will work closely to fill immediate health needs. Call (929) 256-5005 to schedule a checkup and visit their website to learn more about the family medicine practice.

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