My Child's 8 Year Visit

Physical Exam and Immunizations

Eight Years of Growth

At the eight-year milestone, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your child’s pediatrician to check in on your child’s overall health. This visit gives parents an excellent opportunity to discuss any concerns they might have at school or home. We’ll cover many topics to ensure your child is staying on track physically, emotionally, and developmentally.

Physical Screening

During the physical screening, your pediatrician will check your child’s height, weight, vision, and blood pressure. We’ll also examine your child’s strength and reflexes

Emotional Wellness

At this age, your child is much more aware of those around them and is beginning to feel pressured by their peers. We’ll discuss how your child is interacting with friends, if they’ve experienced bullying, and how they handle conflict.

Academic Progress

Your child’s appointment provides an excellent opportunity to discuss their progress in school. We’ll talk about different things your child is working on, what they’re reading, and how they are doing overall in the classroom. We’ll provide guidance and resources for any challenges they may be facing.

Health and Nutrition

Providing balanced meals and snacks for your child teaches them how to nourish and fuel their bodies. We’ll discuss how you can support your child in making healthy choices even when they are at school or in sports activities.

Picture of Cara Ahlstrom, FNP

Cara Ahlstrom, FNP

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

Milestones to Expect

  • Can do two-digit math problems and simple multiplication problems.
  • Enjoys reading longer books.
  • Has developed more complex moving skills like running in a zigzag or doing a cartwheel.
  • Understands humor and can have longer conversations.
  • More aware of being accepted or left out by peers.
  • Has solid, caring friendships.

Safety Reminders

  • Continue to use a booster seat until they are 4’ 9” tall.
  • Ensure your child always wears a helmet while riding a bike.
  • Teach your child internet safety and monitor their online activities.
  • Teach your child to stay safe around fire, guns, and water.
  • Teach your child to dial 911 in an emergency.

Medicine Dosages

WEIGHT 36-47 lbs 48-59 lbs
Children’s Acetaminophen
(160 mg / 5 mL)
Can be given every four hours.
7.5 mL 10 mL
Children’s Ibuprofen
(100 mg / 5 mL)
Can be given every six hours.
*Dosage for Infant Ibuprofen differs
7.5 mL 10 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.

Influenza/Flu VIS

Covid-19 VIS

  1. Influenza/Flu
  2. 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.

Watching my son’s excitement over playing soccer or drawing something new makes me so happy. It’s wonderful to see him doing things he enjoys. He continually amazes me and I love watching him grow

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.
  • If your child has any sort of abdominal pain.
  • Any time you feel something is out of the ordinary.

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