Just like adults, children should visit the doctor regularly for wellness checkups. It is important to form a good relationship with your child's doctor so that you feel comfortable voicing your questions and concerns. Although pediatricians are busy people, you can still communicate with your little one's doctor on a regular basis.

Here are a few ways to build a good relationship with your child's doctor.

Arrive for Appointments on Time

One of the most common pet peeves pediatricians have is tardiness. If you arrive to your child's appointment late, it can throw off the pediatrician's entire schedule. Always leave a few minutes early so that you make it to the appointment on time. If you can't help but be late, you should call the doctor's office to let them know.

Write Down a List of Questions

You may have several questions regarding your child's health. For example, you may want to know why your child has frequent stomachaches or what is the best at-home treatment for a cough. Write down these questions in a notebook so that you do not forget to ask them during the appointment.

Give Your Undivided Attention During Each Visit

In order for your child to get the most out of a doctor's visit, you must be focused. Turn off your cell phone and pay careful attention to what the doctor says. This way, you will not miss out on critical information.

Don't Hesitate to Ask for Clarification

It is important to clearly understand everything your child's doctor tells you. If the pediatrician uses medical jargon that you do not quite understand, do not be afraid to ask for clarification. For instance, if you are unsure of how often to administer your child's medication, you should ask the pediatrician to clarify. 

Be Truthful

There is no such thing as being too honest with your child's doctor. A reputable pediatrician will appreciate constructive feedback so that he or she can do better next time. For instance, if you felt that your child's doctor rushed the last visit and did not thoroughly answer all of your questions, you should not be afraid to voice your thoughts.

If you follow these helpful tips, you should be able to form a long-lasting relationship with your child doctor. If it has been more than a year since your child's last checkup, you should schedule a wellness visit as soon as possible.