Children’s checkups

2 years

The health checkup for 2-year-olds helps assess the child’s growth, development, and daily habits. The visit focuses on movement skills, speech development, nutrition, and overall health. Attention is also given to sleep, screen time, and daily routines. If speech development is delayed, the child can be referred to a speech therapist. In case of progressive bowlegs (genu varum) or asymmetry of the lower limbs, the child is referred to a pediatric orthopedist.

3 years

At the age of three, the child’s weight, height, development, and daily functioning are assessed. For the first time, the child’s visual acuity is tested at the family doctor’s office using an eye chart.

At this age, many independence and self-care skills – such as dressing, eating, and potty training – are becoming established, and speech develops rapidly. The checkup helps evaluate whether the child’s development is age-appropriate and if additional support might be needed. In case of a speech delay or difficulty, the child is referred to a speech therapist.

4 years

The health checkup for 4-year-olds provides an overview of the child’s weight, height, development, and everyday functioning. At this age, children become increasingly independent – their speech and motor skills develop rapidly, and interaction with peers tends to be more frequent. The checkup helps identify whether the child’s development is age-appropriate and if additional support might be needed. If necessary, the family nurse can refer the child to a dentist or another specialist.

5 years

The health check-up for 5-year-olds assesses the child’s development and readiness to start school. The visit helps determine whether the child is becoming school-ready and which skills or abilities might still need support before starting school. If any special needs are identified – such as attention or hyperactivity disorders – early intervention can be arranged to provide the necessary support before the child begins their studies.

6–7 years

Children aged 6–7 undergo a comprehensive pre-school health checkup, which is also required by schools. The visit assesses the child’s overall health and identifies any health-related conditions that should be considered in school life. Health records include information about previous vaccinations, chronic illnesses, allergies, and regularly used medications. This information helps ensure the child’s well-being at school and allows for appropriate adjustments to study load and daily routines.

Grade I

The health checkup for children starting school is carried out by the school nurse. Conducted during the second semester, the checkup helps assess how the child has adapted to school life and how they are coping with the new academic and social challenges. The examination provides an overview of the child’s general health, growth, physical and mental development, and lifestyle. If needed, the school nurse can recommend a visit to the family doctor, dentist, or other specialists.

Grade III

The health checkup for 3rd-grade students is a good opportunity to assess the child’s overall health and well-being in the midst of school life. At this age, children grow rapidly, become more aware of their bodies and mental well-being, and gain independence in daily activities. The checkup monitors the child’s overall development, nutrition, physical activity, and ability to cope with school workload. If necessary, the school nurse can recommend a visit to the family doctor, dentist, or other specialists.

11–12 years

Children aged 11–12 are entering a period of rapid growth, during which it is important to review posture, physical activity, and the bodily changes related to the onset of puberty. Compared to earlier years, this checkup places greater emphasis on mental health, sleep, screen time, and relationships with family, friends, and teachers. The conversation may also reveal possible learning or developmental differences, in which case the child can be referred to a relevant specialist.

Grade 7

The health checkup for 7th-grade students helps assess the young person’s physical and mental health, adjustment to school life, and the changes related to puberty. The checkup provides an overview of the student’s growth, development, and lifestyle, helping to identify possible health concerns or signs of risk behaviour at an early stage. If necessary, the school nurse may recommend a visit to the family doctor or other specialists.

15–16 years

The health checkup for 15–16-year-olds focuses on assessing sexual development and providing counselling on sexual health and risk behaviour. Attention is also given to physical activity, which often decreases at this age due to other interests or lack of motivation. Guidance on healthy eating habits and mental well-being is also an important part of the checkup.

Grade 10

The health checkup conducted during the second semester of 10th grade provides an overview of the student’s physical and mental health, lifestyle, and overall well-being at school and in daily life. The goal of the checkup is to support healthy habits and detect early changes that may require attention or counselling. Discussions also cover risk behaviour, harmful habits, and mental well-being. If necessary, the school nurse can recommend a visit to the family doctor, dentist, or other specialists.