PREVENTATIVE HEALTH CHECKS

Parents and carers may wish to discuss their child’s health and development with a GP before the child begins school. Depending on the child’s individual needs, the consultation may include a discussion of growth, vision, hearing, development, behaviour, sleep, immunisations and any concerns raised by the family.

• Your doctor will take your child’s height, weight and BMI and have a discussion about eating habits and physical activity.
• An eye check is conducted to check for a squint which may cause problems with near and distance vision.
• Hearing test can be performed at your GP practice.
• Dental health check up and dental hygiene advice (you may be advised to visit your Dentist).
• Toilet habits – nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting) and constipation are common in kids and effective management prior to entering school years can prevent both parents and children undergoing considerable distress.
• Known or suspected allergies – your GP can discuss allergy management and whether further assessment, an anaphylaxis management plan or referral to a specialist may be appropriate.
• Speech and language development. 
• Checking of fine and gross motor skills.
• Behaviour, mood and sleeping patterns.
• Emotional maturity.