Starting shortly after birth, it seems parents are constantly tracking important developmental milestones in their children's lives, from taking their first step, to attending their first day of school, to learning how to ride a bike. Each milestone a child achieves is significant for their health and development. Milestones help prepare children for their next level of independence.
As you guide your child through adolescence and their teen years, one milestone that needs to be considered is integrating them into their own health care. The best health outcomes often come from developing relationships and taking part in an active process of health-minded, lifelong decisions, so starting early puts young people on a trajectory for success.
"There are many life skills that we naturally teach our kids, but health care management may not be one you think of," said Dr. Hannah Winters, pediatrics, SSM Health Medical Group. "A good age to start involving your child in their health care is age 12."
Remember, at the age of 18, teenagers become their own health care proxies and can make all health care decisions. That’s why it’s important to include them well before that age to understand and take some responsibility for their health.
"Each child’s development is different, but parents can gauge their individual child’s readiness with a step-wise approach with the help of their pediatrician," said Winters.
Winters recommends gradually giving kids more control of their health care decisions and responsibilities as they get older.
"A great way to start is by talking about your child’s specific medical diagnosis, prescription, or over-the-counter medicine they may be taking," said Winters. "Also, during provider visits, encourage and coach your kids to engage with the provider."
As your children enter their teenage years, your pediatrician may ask to speak with your teen alone. This independent conversation can serve as an excellent way for the teen to take control of his or her own health.
Other health care management skills that can be taken on by teens include reordering medications, scheduling appointments or getting regular screenings or testing. It’s important for parents to support and coach their teens during this transition period, so they can eventually become their own health advocate. By starting early and taking small steps, your teen will be able to gain insight and skills to prepare him or her for transitioning to adult health care.
