My Child's 16 Year Visit

Physical Exam and Immunizations

How are they old enough to drive?

At sixteen, your child is becoming more independent and closer to adulthood, which is hard to believe. It’s an important time to schedule an appointment with your child’s pediatrician. This appointment gives parents an excellent opportunity to discuss any concerns they might have regarding academics, activity levels, or mental health. We’ll cover a variety of topics to ensure your child is staying on track.

Physical Screening

During the physical screening, your pediatrician will check your child’s height, weight, vision, and blood pressure. We’ll also discuss puberty, strength, and flexibility. Your pediatrician will also order any tests they feel are appropriate, including testing for anemia, high cholesterol, or STDs at this age.

Emotional Wellness

Your child’s mental health is an important aspect of their overall health. Academic pressure, peer pressure, school violence, and bullying can all be stressors in a teen’s life, making them more vulnerable to depression. We’ll discuss your child’s emotional well-being and any challenges they might be facing so we can provide resources and guidance on how you can support your child.

Academic Progress

Your child can hold adult-like conversations and understands figurative speech and sarcasm. They think abstractly, can solve complex math problems, and set goals for the future. We’ll discuss their academic progress and any challenges they may be facing in school to ensure they are getting the support they need.

Online Safety

Any online activity, including gaming and social media, comes with risks. Cyberbullying, sexting, and adult media are all topics that are essential to communicate openly about with your teen. We’ll discuss technology use, cyberbullying, social media, and online safety.

Health and Nutrition

Even though teens are often on the go, it’s so important for teenagers to eat well-balanced meals rather than snacks and treats throughout the day. A diet of fruits and vegetables, protein, and whole grains will provide energy and help build muscle. We’ll discuss your child’s diet and encourage a variety of fruits and vegetables and regular exercise to promote healthy weight and good overall health.

Substance Abuse

While underage drinking and substance abuse may be widely accepted among high school-age teens, drugs, vaping, and alcohol can have a lasting impact on your child’s mind and body. We’ll discuss any substance abuse your child may come in contact with at home or school and provide guidance on handling the peer pressure that surrounds them.

Picture of Shelbie Suggs, FNP

Shelbie Suggs, FNP

Shelbie is board-certified in pediatrics and is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Milestones to Expect

  • Has a need for belonging even though they are more independent. 
  • Has strong organizational skills.
  • Can juggle multiple activities, including schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and a job.  
  • Understands the long-term consequences of their actions.
  • Has more capacity for caring about others.
  • Has more vital coping skills for handling new situations and problems that arise.
  • Often more interested in romantic relationships and sexuality.

Safety Reminders

  • Remind your child to always wear a seatbelt and to never text and drive.
  • Set clear rules for electronic devices, gaming, and social media.
  • Get to know your teen’s friends and their parents.
  • Teach your child the dangers and consequences of vaping, drinking, and using drugs.
  • Teach your child about the emotional and physical aspects of sexual intercourse; provide information regarding safe sex, consent, and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Medicine Dosages

WEIGHT 72-95 lbs 96+ lbs
Children’s Acetaminophen
(160 mg / 5 mL)
Can be given every four hours.
15 mL 20 mL
Children’s Ibuprofen
(100 mg / 5 mL)
Can be given every six hours.
*Dosage for Infant Ibuprofen differs
15 mL 20 mL
Do not exceed more than 4 doses in 24 hours.

Vaccine Information Sheets

Vaccine Information Statements (VISs) are information sheets produced by the CDC that explain both the benefits and risks of a vaccine to vaccine recipients.

MenACWY VIS

Influenza/Flu VIS

Covid-19 VIS

  1. Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY)
  2. Influenza/Flu
  3. Covid-19

Bright Futures

At your visit, we’ll provide a summary of what to expect at this stage of your child’s development, as well as in the upcoming weeks and months. This resource, known as Bright Futures, is available below for viewing or printing online.

My daughter just passed her driver’s test and got her driver’s license! She’s stoked about being able to take her friends and go places on her own. I’m excited for her and at the same time, can’t believe my little girl is old enough to drive.

When to Call Your Pediatrician

  • If your child has a fever.
  • If your child is vomiting or has diarrhea.
  • If your child is struggling to breathe.
  • If your child has any sort of abdominal pain.
  • If your child is depressed, self-harming, or having suicidal thoughts.
  • Any time you feel something is out of the ordinary.

From the Pediatric Blog

Helping Teens Cope with Academic Stress

Keeping up with homework and exams can produce a lot of stress for teenagers. Stress can worsen during certain times of the year, such as finals. Keeping an eye on your teen and helping them during those challenging times can make a huge difference.

Making Friends in High School

Supporting your teen’s social development is key. Foster communication, encourage structured activities, and consider professional guidance to build confidence and social skills, helping them navigate friendships successfully.

How to Communicate With and Listen to Your Teen: 3 Key Tips

Open the door to meaningful conversations with your teen—listen, support, and guide them through every step.