Time for a checkup?
Children ages 3-6 grow fast.
A yearly checkup is a way to learn about your child’s growth.
Yearly checkups are a covered benefit and free for all children on the Oregon Health Plan. A yearly checkup is:
A way to learn about your child’s growth
A chance to get your questions answered
A step toward school readiness
Every year matters.
A yearly checkup helps you know what your child needs as they grow and change.
Children ages 3-6 are growing fast, learning new things, and doing more on their own. Yearly checkups are also a chance to connect with your child’s doctor even if your child isn’t sick. You can also be connected to community supports like housing, food, and transportation.
You can get answers to your questions and learn about your child’s growth. Common questions are:
How much sleep should your child be getting?
How does your child’s growth compare with other children their age?
What does your child need to be ready for daycare or kindergarten?
How can you help your child with big feelings like anger and sadness?
What to expect at your child’s
yearly checkup.
Share your child’s health history with
the doctor:
You may be asked to answer a few questions before the visit. You don’t have to answer the questions to see the doctor.
Every child grows in their own way. This is why it is important to share your child’s health history to make sure they get the support they need.
A yearly checkup for children ages 3-6 can include:
Checking your child’s height, weight, eyesight, and hearing.
Questions about how your child sleeps and what kinds of foods they eat.
Talk about new skills your child is learning, like tying their shoes and starting to read.
A conversation with your child’s doctor about vaccines that are needed or recommended for school.
It’s important to feel comfortable with your child’s doctor:
A strong relationship with your child's doctor can help them better understand your family's needs.
If you have concerns about your child's care, talk with the doctor about other options.
If the doctor isn’t a good fit, it’s important to find a new doctor.
Do you want to learn about recommended screenings and vaccinations? We follow the American Academy of Pediatrics Bright Futures.
How to prepare for your child’s
yearly checkup.
Get ready for your child’s appointment.
Write down any questions you have before the visit.
This can help you remember what you want to talk about with your child’s doctor.
Bring a list of any medicines your child takes.
If you need an interpreter, let the doctor’s office know before the appointment.
Do you want to schedule an appointment?
If you are a Health Share member and your child needs a doctor, you can:
Call 503-416-8090 or 888-519-3845 (TTY/TDD 711)
Email us: info@healthshareoregon.org
Look at the Provider Directory
Appointments can fill up quickly. Schedule early if you can. Most people schedule around the child’s birthday every year. It is best to call 3-4 months before the child’s birthday to schedule the appointment.
Examples of questions you can ask
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Is my child growing as expected?
Are my child’s vaccines up to date?
Is my child getting enough exercise?
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How is my child growing and developing for their age?
How can I help my child get ready for preschool or kindergarten?
How is my child communicating, learning, and growing?
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How can I help my child deal with big feelings like anger and sadness?
How can I help my child learn to play safely with others?
When should I ask for extra support for my child or family?
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Regular checkups are important for your child. Health Share can make it easier to access care. You can ask at your child’s doctor visit about help with:
Transportation to appointments
Food and nutrition programs
Early childhood programs
Developmental services
Follow-up care or referrals