As kindergarten approaches, your child benefits from a health checkup that looks beyond the basics. Research suggests that screening for developmental delays, dental health, and overall wellness before school entry helps catch concerns early. If your child was born early, research suggests they may need extra support even if they seemed to catch up as a toddler—early brain development is sensitive, and studies indicate that early time in the NICU can potentially affect classroom adjustment. Talk to your pediatrician about school readiness screening around age 3, especially if your child has health concerns or you've noticed any delays. Don't skip dental visits either; they matter for learning readiness too. Catching issues early means interventions like speech or occupational therapy can make a real difference.