When is head circumference typically measured in children?

Head circumference is typically measured during complete physical exams in children under 3 years of age because this measurement is crucial for monitoring their growth and development. The first few years of life are critical for brain development, and tracking head size helps healthcare providers identify any potential growth issues or developmental disorders early on.

Measuring head circumference at routine visits is not standard practice for all children, as it is specifically emphasized in the early years. While it may be measured during emergency visits, this is not a routine procedure and does not serve the primary purpose of ongoing monitoring. Finally, measuring head circumference only when parents express concern would not provide a comprehensive view of the child's development, as important changes in head size could go unnoticed without regular assessments.