My Child's 9 Year Visit
Ready to Take on the World
At the nine-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 with behavior, academics, or mental health. We’ll cover many topics to ensure your child is staying on track.
Physical Screening
Similar to last year, your pediatrician will check your child’s height, weight, vision, and blood pressure. We’ll also suggest discussing puberty with your child and the changes they should expect with their bodies.
Emotional Wellness
Your child is much more aware of what others think of them and can become more self-critical. We’ll discuss your child’s emotional well-being and provide guidance and resources on supporting them at this age.
Academic Progress
At this age, your child is becoming much more independent and self-motivated. With improved reading comprehension and problem-solving skills, your child is learning about more about complex topics. We’ll discuss their favorite subjects and those that may not come as quickly to them.
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’re at school or away at sporting activities.
Michael Burton, D.O.
Michael is board-certified in pediatrics and is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Milestones to Expect
- Can work on more detail-oriented projects.
- Increased endurance for running, playing, and riding their bike.
- Girls, especially, may hit puberty in the next few years.
- Begins questioning authority and becomes more defiant.
- Has a strong sense of right and wrong.
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 and teach them the rules of the road.
- 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 | 48-59 lbs | 60-71 lbs |
|---|---|---|
|
Children’s Acetaminophen (160 mg / 5 mL) Can be given every four hours. |
10 mL | 12.5 mL |
|
Children’s Ibuprofen (100 mg / 5 mL) Can be given every six hours. *Dosage for Infant Ibuprofen differs |
10 mL | 12.5 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.
HPV VIS
Influenza/Flu VIS
Covid-19 VIS
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
- 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 so fun seeing my daughter coming into her own, making friends, and caring about others. She always runs and gives me a hug after school and it makes my day. She’s growing up and I love watching her kindness and creativity.
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.
From the Pediatric Blog
5 Ways to Pack a Healthier Lunch
Transform lunchtime into a fun and healthy experience! Get creative with themes, homemade snacks, and hydration tips to help your child develop lifelong healthy habits.
4 Play Activities to Help Children Manage Emotions
Create a supportive environment where feelings are expressed and managed. Regularly share your own emotional experiences with your child and encourage fun activities that promote connection and laughter.
Screen Time and Kids: Striking the Right Balance for Healthy Development
Being surrounded by electronics makes it difficult to find the right screen time balance. These guidelines take into account your child’s well-being at every stage.
