Questions to Ask Your Pediatrician
Pediatricians specialize in children's health, from newborns to adolescents. Use this checklist to prepare questions about your child's development, health, and wellness.
Whether you're visiting for a routine checkup, addressing a new symptom, or managing a chronic condition, these questions will help you make the most of your appointment.
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Essential Questions by Topic
Browse questions organized by common visit types and topics
A.Child's General Health & Development
- Is my child's growth and development on track for their age?
- Are there any developmental milestones I should watch for?
- Is my child's weight and height normal for their age?
- What screenings or tests does my child need at this age?
- How often should I schedule well-child visits?
B.Symptoms & Concerns
- What could be causing my child's symptoms?
- Are these symptoms normal for a child this age?
- What tests does my child need, if any?
- When should I bring my child back if symptoms don't improve?
- What are the warning signs I should watch for at home?
C.Medications & Treatment for Children
- Does my child need medication, or can we try non-medication approaches first?
- What are the potential side effects for children, and how do I recognize them?
- What is the correct dosage based on my child's age and weight?
- How should I give this medication to my child (with food, time of day)?
- Are there child-friendly forms of this medication (liquid vs. pills)?
- How long will my child need to take this medication?
D.Chronic Conditions in Children
- Is my child's chronic condition well-controlled for their age?
- How does this condition affect my child's growth and development?
- Should we adjust the treatment plan as my child grows?
- What signs indicate my child's condition is worsening?
- How do I manage this condition at school or daycare?
- When should my child see a pediatric specialist?
E.Prevention & Lifestyle
- Are my child's vaccinations up to date?
- What nutrition and diet recommendations do you have?
- How much sleep does my child need at this age?
- What safety measures should I be aware of?
- How can I support my child's healthy development?
F.Next Steps & Follow-Up for Your Child
- What should I do at home to help my child?
- When will I receive test results, and how (phone, portal)?
- What warning signs mean I should bring my child back immediately?
- Should my child see a pediatric specialist?
- When should I schedule the next well-child or follow-up visit?
- How can I reach you with questions between visits?
Special Scenarios
Questions tailored for specific visit types and situations
First Visit with a New Pediatrician
- What should I bring (birth certificate, immunization records, previous medical records)?
- How do I transfer my child's medical records from the previous pediatrician?
- What is your approach to vaccinations and preventive care?
- How do you prefer to communicate with parents (phone, email, patient portal)?
- What is your policy on after-hours emergencies?
- What should I know about your practice's approach to child development?
Well-Child Visit / Annual Checkup
- Is my child meeting developmental milestones for their age?
- What vaccines does my child need at this age?
- Is my child's growth (height, weight, head circumference) on track?
- What screenings (vision, hearing, blood work) should my child have?
- Are there any concerns about my child's eating, sleeping, or behavior?
- What safety topics should I discuss with my child for their age?
Sick Visit / Acute Illness
- What is causing my child's symptoms?
- What can I do at home to help my child feel better?
- What medications are safe and appropriate for my child's age?
- What are the warning signs that mean I should bring my child back?
- How long should these symptoms last before I worry?
- When can my child return to school or daycare?
Developmental & Behavioral Concerns
- Are my concerns about my child's development normal, or should I be worried?
- What developmental milestones should my child reach next?
- How can I support my child's learning and development at home?
- Should I be concerned about my child's behavior or social skills?
- Are there resources or specialists who can help if needed?
- What activities or therapies might benefit my child?
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About This Resource
This question checklist has been developed based on common parent and caregiver needs and pediatric healthcare communication best practices. The questions are designed to help you prepare effectively for your child's pediatric appointment and make the most of your limited time with the doctor. Pediatricians focus on children's health, growth, and development, so consider your child's age and specific concerns when selecting questions.
Content Sources
Our questions are based on recommendations from healthcare communication guidelines, patient advocacy resources, and common concerns identified in primary care settings. We regularly review and update our content to ensure relevance.
Last Updated
2026-01-01 | This page is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect current healthcare communication best practices.
Note: WhatToAskDoctor is not a medical service provider. These questions are tools to help you prepare for appointments and improve communication with your healthcare provider. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment decisions.
Medical Disclaimer: These questions are general guidelines to help you prepare for your appointment. Always discuss your specific health concerns with your healthcare provider. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.