The short answer
In the UK, ask your GP or health visitor about health or developmental concerns at three. NHS information describes a routine review at two to two-and-a-half years, rather than a universal US-style three-year doctor visit. Bring growth and vaccination records, everyday examples, and your main questions; local services determine any assessment or referral.
In this guide · 8 sections
Keep in mind
- Growth trends matter more than one measurement or percentile.
- Bring examples from home and childcare, especially changes or lost skills.
- Screening and vaccination plans depend on records and individual needs.
- Do not wait for the scheduled visit if a significant concern arises.
How are growth and physical health reviewed?
Your GP or health visitor can review growth concerns using height, weight, age-appropriate BMI, previous measurements, and the health history. Examination depends on the concern and appointment; do not aim for a particular centile.
Which developmental topics may come up?
Discuss conversation, questions, speech clarity, joining peers’ play, drawing, using a fork, dressing, and other daily skills. If behaviour differs between home and childcare, bring examples from both settings.
Why discuss vision, teeth, and other screening?
Raise concerns about vision, hearing, teeth, eating, or development with the appropriate local service, GP, or health visitor. The NHS routine two-to-two-and-a-half-year review is not the same as a universal US three-year examination. Ask about any missed vaccinations or assessments using your child’s records; schedules and follow-up arrangements can vary.
What should you bring?
Bring growth and vaccination records, a medicine list, recent health information, and relevant family history. Write your three main questions about sleep, food, bowel habits, toilet learning, speech, movement, hearing, vision, or behaviour; childcare observations can help too.
How can you prepare your child?
Explain simply that the clinician may measure them, listen to their heart, and ask questions. Practise with a toy if useful. Avoid using the visit as punishment or threatening an injection; give your child time to respond and support them without forcing answers.
When to seek support
Some signs need emergency help; other concerns can be discussed with your child’s healthcare team.
- Loss of previously acquired language, movement, play, social, or daily-living skills needs prompt assessment.
- Poor growth, persistent pain, recurrent vomiting, or symptoms affecting daily functioning should not wait for the routine visit.
- Severe breathing difficulty or unresponsiveness is an emergency: call 999.
- Strong ongoing concerns about hearing, vision, speech, movement, or behaviour deserve assessment.
Sources used for this guide
- NHS — Your baby's health and development reviews
- NHS — Your baby’s weight and height
- www.cdc.gov — regional guidance
English editorial review:
The English text and regional guidance have been checked editorially. This is not an individual clinical assessment.
Luluna provides general parenting information. It does not diagnose conditions or replace your child’s healthcare professional.
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