GOING TO THE DOCTOR

“You're going to the doctor,” your mum tells you. But why go to the doctor when you're not sick? Regular check-ups are a smart idea for kids. These visits happen when you're feeling fine and are sometimes called "well-child" visits because you're well. Get it? It's a chance for the doctor to see that you're growing and developing normally. It's also a chance for your parents to talk with the doctor about any issues, such as safety or nutrition, so they can help you stay healthy. And it gives you a chance to ask any questions you might have about your health. You might wonder when you will grow taller, for instance, or if you weigh the right amount.

A check-up may start when a nurse calls you and your parent from the waiting room. He or she might start by checking your weight and height, as well as your blood pressure and maybe your temperature. The nurse may check your hearing and vision (eyesight). If you have trouble with either one of these, you might need to see a hearing specialist or an eye doctor. The nurse then might ask you to go to the bathroom and give some urine (pee) in a cup. Urine can give clues about whether something is wrong with the way a person's body is working. But usually, the nurse tests you and says everything is fine.

All of these numbers, measurements, and test results will go into your medical chart so the doctor can look them over. Then it's time to meet the doctor.