Your child will get two more checks between the ages of 3 and 5.
46 to 48 months
This check will happen between 46 and 48 months (3 years 10 months to 4 years) of age. This will take place in your local health centre.
Your child will be weighed and their height measured.
Your PHN will also check:
Eyesight
To see if your child’s eyes point in the same direction
Posture and large movements
For example, if your child jumps, climbs well, pedals a tricycle, balances on 1 foot
Fine movements
If your child can pick up pins and threads, hold a pencil and copy a circle.
Speech development
If your child can:
- answer simple questions like “who?”and “why?”
- talk about activities at play school or a friend’s home
- usually be understood by people outside of the family
Cognitive development (learning, thinking and problem-solving)
If your child can:
- do puzzles with 3 to 4 pieces
- work toys with buttons, levers and moving parts
- turn door handles
Social, emotional, behavioural and play development
If your child:
- uses imaginative play
- take turns
- holds eye contact
- is toilet trained
- shows affection to friends without being prompted
You will also be able to talk to your PHN about health and nutrition, safety issues and other concerns.
4 to 5 years
Your child will get this check at school when they are in junior infants. You will be asked to sign a consent form before this check.
You will be asked to answer some questions about your child's general health. This gives an overall picture of how your child is doing.
Your school public health nurse will check your child’s hearing and eyes. If needed your child may be sent for a further check or a referral to a specialist.
