Are you going to see the doctor with your 8-year-old? (Well-Child Visit) Let's find out these things!

When your child turns 8, it's important to take him or her to the doctor for a complete checkup. This is often called a "Well-Child Visit." At this age, a child's body and mind are developing a lot, and they are learning new things. So today, we'll talk in more detail about what happens at this doctor's appointment, what we as parents should expect, and what the doctor will look for. Ready?

What happens during this medical examination?

Okay, when you and your child go to see the doctor, these are the things that usually happen. There's nothing to worry about, these are all things that are done for the child's best interest.

1. Calculate BMI based on weight and height

First, the doctor or nurse will measure your child's weight and height . Then, they will use those measurements to calculate a value called `BMI (Body Mass Index) .` This will help them determine whether the child is at a healthy weight for their height. They will record all of this on a special growth chart they have. This will help them determine whether the child is growing properly.

2. Blood pressure, vision and hearing check

Next, they check the child's blood pressure . They use the usual equipment they have. In addition, they check the child's vision and hearing . These are also very simple tests. Sometimes they ask them to read letters, or ask them if they hear certain sounds.

3. Asks you questions, answers your questions

This is the most important part. The doctor will ask you a few questions about your baby. This is also the best time to ask any questions or concerns you may have. These are usually discussed:

• About food: Three main meals a day and one or two nutritious snacks in between. It is important to provide a well-balanced diet . This includes lean protein, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy. A child this age can be given 2 ½ cups (about 600 ml) of low-fat milk per day. Or you can give other low-fat dairy products or fortified soy milk. Foods high in sugar, salt, and fat should be limited as much as possible. Don't give more than 4-6 ounces (120-180 ml) of 100% fruit juice per day.

• Regarding toilet habits: Some children, especially boys and children who sleep well, may experience bedwetting at night at this age. Most of the time, this will stop on its own. However, if this continues to be a problem, talk to your doctor.

• About sleep: A child of this age definitely needs about 9-12 hours of sleep per night . If he doesn't get enough sleep, it can be difficult to concentrate on schoolwork. Therefore, send him to bed at a fixed time so that he can sleep well. Encourage your child to do something relaxing before bed (a relaxing bedtime routine). Do not keep digital devices like TV, phones, and tablets in your child's bedroom.

• About physical activity: Children this age should engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day. Limit screen time (watching TV, playing video games, using phones, tablets, and computers).

• About growth and development: By age 8, most children show these characteristics:
• They are starting to work a little more independently from their parents and family.
• Usually, people form a group of friends of the same gender.
• Take someone as a role model, like a favorite athlete, actor, or superhero.
• Understands the difference between right and wrong .
• I like to read books.
• You can do simple calculations.
• You will be able to focus on something for longer (longer attention spans) and cooperate more with others.
• When a problem arises, I try to solve it in a more organized and logical way .
• You can perform more complex, coordinated tasks, like putting a ball in a basket.

4. Physical Examination (Exam)

Next, the doctor will examine the child. At this time, the child's heart and lungs will be listened to, the teeth will be checked for cavities, and the child will be observed for walking. Some children can show signs of puberty as early as 7 years old, so the doctor will also look for these. It is important for the mother, father, or guardian to be present during this examination.

5. Vaccines Update

Vaccines are very important to protect children from serious diseases. Therefore, it is essential to vaccinate your child on time. There may be slight differences in the vaccination schedule at each medical center. Therefore, talk to your doctor and be aware of it.

6. Ordering tests if necessary

Sometimes the doctor may order tests to check if your child has conditions like anemia, high cholesterol, or tuberculosis. These are only done if necessary, so don't be afraid.

Keep these things in mind until your next checkup.

Okay, so now your 8-year-old's checkup is over. The next checkup is at age 9. Until then, there are a few other things we as parents need to pay attention to.

### About schoolwork

School is a big part of a child's life, so be careful about these things during this time:

• Engage your child in a variety of activities . This means encouraging them to participate in things they enjoy, such as music, art, sports, and after-school clubs.
• If the child does something well, praise it. Also, if the child is struggling with something, help and support him.
• Sometimes a child may struggle with schoolwork. This could be due to a learning disability, attention problems, or bullying at school. If you feel this way, be sure to talk to the teacher. Then, your child can get the help they need and be successful in their studies.

### About the child's personal things (Self)

As a child grows up, it is very important to teach them about their body and their feelings.

• Explain to your child that their body is changing little by little, and that this is normal . Teach them the correct names for body parts, and explain their functions in simple terms.
• Teach your child that it is never okay for any adult to tell you to keep secrets . Explain that no one should look at or touch your child's private parts, and that no one has the right to ask them to look at or touch their private parts.
• Make sure your child brushes their teeth twice a day, flosses once a day, and sees a dentist every 6 months.
• If your child makes a mistake, use fair, consistent disciplinary action (consequences). Do not hit or spank your child.
• Give your child simple chores to help them feel responsible . For example, making their bed or setting the table.

### About Safety

We need to be very concerned about the safety of children at this age. Even though they are a little older, they still need our guidance.

• When traveling in the car, keep your child in the back seat. Use a belt-positioning booster seat until they are 4 feet 9 inches (about 150 centimeters) tall, which is usually around 8-12 years old.
• Make sure your child wears a helmet when riding a bike, skateboard, or scooter. Ask them to use protective equipment like mouth guards and pads when playing sports.
• Teach your child to cross the road on their own (by looking both ways and listening for traffic). But until they are about 10 years old, help them cross the road with you.
• Teach your child what to do in an emergency, and how and when to call 119 (or the relevant emergency number) .
• Teach your child to swim , but don't let him swim alone unless an adult is watching.
• Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher about 15 minutes before your child goes outside to play. Reapply every two hours.
• Protect your child from secondhand smoke.
• Explain to your child why it is never a good idea to use cigarettes or other tobacco products, e-cigarettes, drugs, or alcohol.
• Be aware of your child's use of the Internet . Keep the computer that everyone in the family uses within your reach. Set up safety filters, check the browser history to see what websites your child visits. Teach your child not to share personal information online .
• Do not keep firearms at home. If you do, keep them empty, locked up, and out of reach of children. Keep the ammunition locked up separately. Make sure the keys are out of reach of children. Although this is not very relevant to our country, it is good to know.
• If you have any concerns about your living situation (for example, not having enough child care, enough food, a safe home, or health insurance), talk to your doctor about it. He or she may be able to refer you to community resources or arrange for you to meet with a social worker.

The most important thing is that you talk openly with the doctor. Don't hesitate to ask for any little thing that is on your mind. Because the health and happiness of the child are more important than anything else!

Finally, a few things to remember

So, this medical checkup for your 8-year-old child is another important milestone in his development. At this time, it is very important to follow the doctor's instructions and to listen to and resolve any questions you may have.

Remember, every child is different . So, don't worry if your child is a little different from other children. The most important thing is that your child grows up happy, healthy, and loved. If you have any questions, never be afraid to ask the doctor. He/she is there to help you.

I wish your child a healthy and happy future!

` Children's health, 8-year checkup, growth and development, parenting advice, school health, child safety, nutrition