Making sure your child is healthy and growing comes down to prevention — and regular checkups are your secret weapon.

Here are three reasons why:

1. Staying on schedule. At each appointment, your pediatrician will measure growth and provide immunizations when needed. These appointments will also give you the space to ask questions and share concerns.
2. Building healthy habits. During checkups, doctors offer guidance on nutrition, sleep, safety and emotional wellness. This can help lay the foundation for lifelong well-being.
3. Monitoring milestones. The CDC says by using checklists for screening at specific ages (such as 9, 18 and 30 months), parents and providers can spot delays early. Early support can make all the difference.

Making time for regular checkups empowers you to be proactive. It’s not about worrying — it’s about celebrating your child’s milestones, catching potential issues early and staying in tune with their changing needs. Preventive care helps make sure kids grow up strong, confident and healthy.