Your child’s doctor plays an important role in his or her mental and physical development. Pediatricians not only look after their patients when they are sick physically. But they also aid their optimal mental development and well-being.

Overall health includes physical as well as mental aspects of a person. Both these aspects contribute towards keeping a child emotionally healthy too. A child with excellent mental, emotional, and physical health is likely to grow up into confident and happy individuals. But the thing to keep in mind is to choose the right doctor for your child. Lets’ say, you live in Jacksonville. If so then research about pediatricians in Jacksonville you find via referrals or online search. Choose one only after collecting proper information about the doctors’ qualifications and experience.

Here’s more on the role of pediatricians in the physical and mental development of children.

Role of Pediatricians in the Physical Development of Children

Basic checkups – Pediatricians conduct basic checkup for children of all ages. For infants, pediatricians are likely to provide parents with a schedule that is to be followed without fail. During these basic checkups, the doctor will measure your child height and weight to assess if the growth is optimal.

The doctor will check body parts for problems or defects. If there is a problem with the child’s vision or hearing, your pediatrician will be able to know about it in time. With timely treatments, your child’s speech development can be taken care of or vision stopped from further deterioration. The same applies to bone deformities or problems with internal organs.

Congenital disorders – Children can be born with congenital heart problems and other ailments that require constant and critical care. Some pediatricians specialize in pediatric cardiology, neurology, immunology, or oncology. If your regular pediatrician is not a specialist, he or she will still play an important role in helping your child with congenital disorders. Pediatricians support specialists by keeping an eye on their patients and informing the specialists if there is a critical situation.

Vaccinations – Pediatricians, of course, take care of their patients’ vaccination schedule right from infancy till their teen years. They provide parents with a strict schedule to be followed for their child’s perfect health.

Emergencies – Of course, pediatricians are available for their patients in emergency situations. Not all doctors may be available for emergency care or have the facilities for it. So, it is best to inquire about it before choosing a pediatrician.

Nutrition – Pediatricians will offer dietary recommendations for their patients. The right diet is crucial for optimal growth and development of children at all stages. They also keep an eye on malnutrition and obesity problems common in children.

Role of Pediatricians in the Mental Development of Children

Assessment – Mental health issues often go unrecognized by parents as the symptoms can go unnoticed. But doctors are able to see and assess the situation and help their young patients in a timely manner. Mental health problems can take a toll on children’s overall well-being. Children, especially over the age of 10 and those entering their teens can experience signs of depression due to changes at home and school. Symptoms of learning disorders are also not very apparent without a full assessment by a medical professional. Children can also suffer from eating disorders; leading to them experiencing malnutrition and growth problems. Pediatricians can refer their patients to the right specialists if needed for their mental health conditions.

Counselling – Pediatricians often act as their patients’ first counsellors. Kids and teens may be averse to talking to their parents about their problems; especially those related to growth issues or sexual health. They can guide their patients about the right steps to take. They can then talk to their parents and relay the problem to them. Oftentimes; counselling alone can save kids from getting into depression or become irritable, lose focus etc.

Nutrition – Diet plays a major role in keeping mental health astute. Lack of nutrition can lead to irritability, anger, lack of focus, and energy. These issues can then lead to depression and eating disorders. Pediatricians will recommend the inclusion of the right nutrients into your child’s diet in the form of opmega-3s and others for excellent mental health.