Well-Child visits to Bastyr Center include in-depth assessment of growth, development and dietary needs.

Well-Child Visits Keep Kids Active

Is your child healthy and active? If so, now is a great time to take them in for a Well–Child Visit.

"When there’s no specific complaint, it’s the perfect time to talk about diet, sleep, behavior issues and discipline, all of which you may not have time to address during acute visits," explains Tamara Cullen, ND, a faculty practitioner at Bastyr Center for Natural Health. "Also, we can compare the child's behavior when they're well to their sick behavior, which can be really helpful."

A Well–Child Visit at Bastyr Center is a general checkup that assesses a child's growth and development, following the age-related milestones prescribed by the American Academy of Pediatrics from age 1 month to 21 years. Although Well–Child Visits at Bastyr Center cover the same diagnostic standards as MD visits, the visits last longer (45 minutes to an hour), providing the chance for more in–depth assessments and giving the practitioners a chance to proactively address dietary and lifestyle issues.

"We can take 10 minutes or so just to talk about any dietary concerns, such as important food sources of calcium for a child and whether they are getting enough protein to support their development. There is just a lot more time for education," says Dr. Cullen.

But are Well–Child Visits essential even if your child seems to be thriving? Yes, says Dr. Cullen, because often parents don't notice subtle issues in their child's health and development. Heart murmurs, delayed reflexes or neurological issues are among the many things parents may not catch. Also, first–time parents tend to consult the doctor frequently and then come less with subsequent children, but Dr. Cullen cautions that each child is developing at their own speed and may have a different configuration of genes contributing to their health.

"Well–child exams are very important, especially during the first year of life and even up until age two, because so many conditions and issues can start during that time," says Dr. Cullen. "It's better to catch them early." After age 2, Cullen likes to see children every year around their birthday.

When children are older, Well–Child Visits can encompass autism screenings and provide support for a child's nutrition, social adjustment, safety issues, and measure their progress in becoming independent and competent. "And during the puberty and teen years, children can benefit from a safe place to discuss sexual activity, which they're often not as comfortable discussing with their parents," notes Dr. Cullen.

During July and August 2012, Bastyr Center will offer $20 Well–Child Visits for kids 11 years and younger. To make an appointment, call 206.834.4100 or submit our quick contact form.