Kids get their first physical exam in the hospital right after birth. The next checkup is 3 to 5 days later, then at 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, and 12 months. After age 3, the AAP says kids need a physical exam once a year until 21.

The First Few Weeks of Life

Your baby’s first exam happens before you leave the hospital. The doctor checks the heart, lungs, hips, and reflexes. A small heel prick also screens for certain rare diseases.

Your Baby’s First Office Visit

The AAP recommends bringing your baby in 3 to 5 days after birth. The doctor checks weight, feeding, and signs of jaundice. Short visit, big payoff.

Well-Child Exams in the First Year

Babies grow fast, so they need many checkups in year one. Here is the AAP schedule:

Age	What Happens
1 month	Weight check, feeding talk
2 months	First round of shots
4 months	Growth and milestone check
6 months	More shots, food talk
9 months	Crawling, sounds, and play
12 months	First birthday checkup, blood test

These visits catch problems early and keep your baby on track.

Toddler and Preschool Years

After year one, kids see the doctor at 15, 18, 24, and 30 months, then at age 3. Each visit tracks growth, speech, and behavior.

Why Yearly Visits Matter From Age 3

From age 3 on, kids need one physical exam every year. These visits check vision, hearing, blood pressure, and BMI. They also catch issues like asthma, allergies, or learning delays early.

School Years and Teens

Big kids still need a yearly exam. Schools and sports teams often ask for one. Yorktown Health Vernon Hills offers fast school physicals and sports physicals. Teens also get help with mood, sleep, and growth at adolescent care visits.

Final Thoughts

The first physical exam starts at birth, and yearly checkups carry on through age 21. Ready to book a well-child exam? Contact Yorktown Health Vernon Hills today.