Child's Well Visit, 7 to 8 Years: Care Instructions

Your child will have many things to share with you as they learn new things in school. It's important that they get enough sleep and healthy food during this time. They're also learning to develop social skills and to read better.

How can you care for your child age 7 to 8 years?

Forming healthy eating habits

• Offer fruits and vegetables at meals and snacks.

• Give your child new foods to try.

• Let your child choose how much they eat.

• Limit fast food. Help your child with healthier food choices when you eat out.

• Offer water when your child is thirsty. Avoid juice and soda pop.

• Remove screens when eating. Make meals a time for family to connect.

Practicing healthy habits

• Help your child brush their teeth twice a day and floss once a day.

• Put sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) on your child before going outside.

• Do not let anyone smoke around your child.

• Put your child to bed at about the same time every night.

Keeping your child safe

• Use a car seat or booster seat. Install it in the back seat.

• Make sure your child wears the right safety gear, such as a helmet, if they ride a bike or scooter.

• Watch your child around water and busy roads.

• Make sure you know where your child is and who is watching your child.

• Keep guns away from children. If you have guns, lock them up unloaded. Lock ammunition away from guns.

Parenting your child

• Read and play games with your child every day.

• Give your child chores to do.

• Praise good behavior. Do not yell or spank.

• Don't let your child watch violent TV or videos.

• Don't use food as a reward or punishment.

• Set a regular before- and after-school routine.

Teaching your child to be safe

• Make sure your child knows your home address, your phone number, and how to call 911.

• Teach your child not to let anyone touch their private parts.

• Teach your child not to take anything from strangers and not to go with strangers.

Dealing with bullying

• If your child is afraid of someone, listen to their concerns. Tell them to try to stay calm, talk things out, or walk away.

• If your child bullies another child, explain that you are upset with that behavior and that it hurts other people.

Getting vaccines

• Make sure your child gets all the recommended vaccines.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

Current as of: October 24, 2023

Content Version: 14.0

Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.