My Baby's 4 Year Visit

Physical Exam and Immunizations

Independent Four Year Old

As your child reaches the four year milestone, their personality and independence shine through. It’s time for their four-year-old checkup where we’ll cover a range of topics to ensure your child is thriving.

Physical Screening

During the physical screening, we’ll check your child’s weight, height, and overall physical health. We’ll also evaluate their coordination skills.

Milestone Assessments

At this age, your child is becoming more social and eager to share their thoughts and feelings. We’ll assess their ability to communicate, follow directions, and interact with others. This helps us track their progress and address any concerns early on.

Nutrition

Many kids have strong opinions at this age when it comes to food. We’ll discuss encouraging a variety of foods, healthy eating habits, and any concerns you may have with picky eating or nutritional health.

Behavior

As a parent, you’re probably experiencing both the sweetness and stubbornness of this age. We’ll discuss managing temper tantrums and encouraging positive behavior during this strong and independent stage.

Love of Learning

At this age, children ask a lot of questions, are eager to talk, and love to tell stories. We’ll evaluate their language development and discuss ways to support their love of learning through reading, playing, and having everyday conversations.

School Readiness

With preschool or pre-kindergarten around the corner, we’ll discuss your child’s school readiness, including their ability to socialize with peers, share, follow rules, and handle their emotions.

We’re here to support you and your child during this exciting time of growth and discovery. Please contact our office any time you have a question or concern.

Picture of Jennifer Gilsoul, M.D.

Jennifer Gilsoul, M.D.

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

Milestones to Expect

  • Your child’s speech is understandable.
  • Can usually count from 1 to 10.
  • Can walk on their tiptoes, climb a ladder, and ride a tricycle.
  • Uses a pencil with good control.
  • Talks about their daily activities and tells stories.

Safety Reminders

  • Never leave a child unattended in a car or house; they still need close supervision.
  • Teach pedestrian safety (“look both ways before crossing the street”).
  • Begin to teach your child not to talk to or accept food from strangers.
  • Keep electrical tools, matches, and poisons locked up and out of reach.

Medicine Dosages

WEIGHT 24-35 lbs 36-47 lbs
Children’s Acetaminophen
(160 mg / 5 mL)
Can be given every four hours.
5 mL 7.5 mL
Children’s Ibuprofen
(100 mg / 5 mL)
Can be given every six hours.
*Dosage for Infant Ibuprofen differs
5 mL 7.5 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.

DTaP VIS

IPV VIS

MMR VIS

Chickenpox/Varicella VIS

Influenza/Flu VIS

Covid-19 VIS

  1. Diphtheria and tetanus toxoids and acellular pertussis vaccine (DTaP)
  2. Inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV)
  3. Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR)
  4. Chickenpox/Varicella
  5. Influenza/Flu
  6. 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.

Four years feels like it’s gone so fast. It's incredible to witness how his little mind works. He absorbs everything around him like a sponge. It’s so rewarding to watch him grow and learn new things. He says the cutest things and I’m so honored I get to be his mom.

When to Call Your Pediatrician

  • If your child has a fever.
  • If your child is vomiting.
  • If your child has diarrhea.
  • If your child has an unusual skin rash.
  • Any time you feel something is out of the ordinary.

From the Pediatric Blog

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Understand why play is vital in early childhood development, nurturing cognitive skills and enhancing learning in preschool.

10 No-Cost, Screen-Free Activities to Play with Your Preschooler

Engage with your child through simple, fun games! Strengthen your bond and promote creativity without the need for expensive toys—sometimes all it takes is a cardboard box or a classic game like Duck, Duck, Goose.