What to Expect at Your Child's Five Year Old Checkup

The five year old checkup is an important one. It's the one that is required for your child to enter kindergarten. There are many things that will go on during this checkup. Here is a list of what to expect at your child's five year old checkup. I hope that it will help you and your child become better prepared for this checkup.

Weight & Height Check- One of the first things that will occur during your child's five year old checkup is having their weight and height checked. Your child will most likely be asked to remove their shoes and then step on the doctor scales. While on the scales they will probably have their height measured. This is necessary to make sure that your child is growing correctly and isn't under or overweight for their age. Your pediatrician will most likely show you the growth chart for your child's growth over the years.

Urine Sample- Since your child is older now and is, most likely, potty trained, if your pediatrician requires a urine sample it should be much easier than when your child was younger. The nurse will give you a urine sample cup and direct you to the bathroom. All you have to do is "catch" some urine in the cup when your child needs to go potty. Your pediatrician will test the urine sample to make sure things like your child's sugar level are appropriate.

Blood Sample- Another routine procedure during your child's five year old checkup is the finger prick. The finger prick is an easy way to get a blood sample from your child. It's quick and easy and only requires a cute little band-aid afterwards. Your pediatrician will test your child's blood sample to make sure that things like their iron levels are where they should be.