My Teen's 18 Year Visit
Officially an Adult!
Turning 18 is a huge milestone for your child as it marks their transition into adulthood. It’s an important time to schedule an appointment with your child’s pediatrician. This appointment gives parents an excellent opportunity to discuss their concerns regarding their child’s growth and development. 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 eating, sleeping, and physical activity. Your pediatrician will also order any tests they feel are appropriate, including testing for anemia, high cholesterol, or STDs at this age.
Mental Health
Your child’s mental health is an important aspect of their overall health. Stressors, including academic pressure, future college plans, other’s expectations, and lack of sleep, make your teen 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 understands abstract concepts, consequences, and personal limitations. They comprehend characters and plots and compare information from multiple sources to form conclusions. We’ll discuss their academic progress, any challenges they may be facing in school, and any concerns they may have as they plan for their future.
Online Safety
Being away from home presents your child with different online rules and guidelines. Discussions with your adult child regarding online safety should be handled with more trust, open communication, and geared to help them trust their instincts to avoid scams and questionable situations. We’ll discuss technology use, cyberbullying, social media, and online safety.
Health and Nutrition
Teaching your child to make well-balanced meals that include protein, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables is a valuable life skill that creates healthy habits and independence. We’ll discuss your child’s diet and encourage a nutrient-rich diet and regular exercise to promote healthy weight and overall health.
Substance Abuse
While underage drinking and substance abuse may be widely accepted at this age, drugs, vaping, and alcohol can have a lasting impact on your child’s mind and body. We’ll discuss drug and alcohol use and provide resources for quitting or cutting down as needed.
Ashley Dennis, M.D.
Ashley is board-certified in pediatrics and is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Milestones to Expect
- While eighteen-year-olds have reached their max height, brains continue to develop into the mid-to-late twenties.
- Over the next five years, planning, prioritizing, and decision-making skills will improve.
- Young adults are more emotionally stable and can control their thoughts and actions.
- Your child will value committed relationships and can combine both emotional and physical intimacy.
- Young adults form relationships based on shared values, belief systems, and philosophies.
Safety Reminders
- Remind your child to always wear a seatbelt and to never text and drive.
- Remind your child never to ride in a car with someone who has been using drugs or alcohol.
- Teach your child to stay safe online, including privacy settings, avoiding malicious websites, and using strong passwords.
- Teach your child the dangers of carrying weapons and fighting.
- 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 six 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 |
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.
Influenza/Flu VIS
Covid-19 VIS
- Influenza/Flu
- 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.
It’s hard to believe that my fluffy-haired baby is now a full-grown adult. I’m so amazed at all of the things she has accomplished and overcome and can’t wait to see what the future holds. I’m cheering her on every step of the way, as she enters a new chapter of life.
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.
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