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Your Well Visit (9 to 11 Years): Care Instructions

Your well visit is a regular checkup. It happens about once a year. Well visits aren't like other doctor visits you have when you're sick. This visit is a chance for your doctor to check on how you're growing and make sure you're staying healthy.

At your visit, a doctor or nurse might check things like your heart and lungs, weight, height, hearing, vision, teeth, and blood. They might also ask about school, food, activities, and healthy habits. And if you need vaccines, you might get them at your visit.

The doctor isn't the only one who gets to ask questions though! This is a great time for you to ask any questions you might have about staying healthy, or about how your body is growing.

Tips for how to take care of yourself

There's a lot you can do between your well visits to keep yourself healthy and strong. Here are some tips.

  • Eating healthy

    • Eat lots of fruits and vegetables.
    • Drink water instead of sugary drinks like juice or soda.
    • Make sure to eat breakfast. It helps your brain focus at school.

  • Taking care of your body

    • Brush your teeth twice a day, and floss at least once a day.
    • Take a bath or shower regularly, and clean well with soap.
    • Use deodorant if you're starting to sweat more or if your armpits start to get smelly.
    • Put on sunscreen and wear a hat when you head outside.
    • Be active! Things like biking, playing a sport, or going for a walk all count.
    • Try to get 9 to 12 hours of sleep each night. Having a regular bedtime helps!
    • Follow the screen time limits your parents set.

  • Staying safe

    • Always use a seatbelt and sit in the back seat until you are 13.
    • Wear a helmet and safety gear any time you're on wheels, like a bike, skateboard, or scooter.
    • Follow traffic rules when you walk, bike, scooter, or skateboard.
    • Don't swim alone. Ask about learning how to swim if you don’t already know how.
    • Say “no” to cigarettes, vaping, drugs, and alcohol. Walk away and tell a trusted adult if someone offers you some.
    • Be smart about strangers, including people online. Never go anywhere with someone you don't know, and don't share personal information.
    • If you see a gun, don't touch it. Leave the area, and tell your parent or a grownup right away.

  • Connecting with others

    • Help out at home by pitching in with chores or helping with younger kids.
    • Be a good friend, and choose friends who are kind to you.
    • Have a plan with your parents in case you ever feel unsafe or uncomfortable at a friend's house.
    • If someone is bothering you at school, tell an adult you trust.

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