How your child develops up to the age of 5 sets the groundwork for learning, health and behaviour throughout their life.
All children develop at different rates. Some will be slower than others but then catch up over time. Others may have an underlying problem.
Free health and development checks
Every child gets free health and development checks from 0 to 5 years. This is to make sure they are healthy and developing normally.
Checks will happen with a healthcare professional, for example your public health nurse (PHN), GP practice nurse or GP. They will normally happen at home or at your local health centre.
You can use these visits and health checks to ask any questions or talk about any concerns about yourself or your baby.
All checks are free of charge and provided by the HSE.
Your child will also get vaccines to keep them safe from disease. These are also free.
Your child will have routine health checks:
Use your under 6s GP visit card
Every child under the age of 6 can get an under 6s GP visit card. This includes free visits to the GP. The GP visit card also includes free assessments at age 2 and 5 for children with asthma.
Keep your address up to date
You will get reminders about your child's next check. Tell your local health centre if your address changes.
