The pediatric history is the systematic process by which relevant clinical information is collected about a child in order to understand their current health status, past history, and factors that may influence their physical, mental, and social development. Since children cannot always clearly express their symptoms, the interview is primarily conducted through parents or caregivers. This history includes important data such as prenatal, perinatal, and neonatal history, pathological and non-pathological personal history, family history, immunizations, growth and development, as well as the child's psychosocial environment. Developmental milestones (motor, language, social) and feeding from birth are also detailed.
Unlike the adult medical history, the pediatric history should focus on aspects specific to child growth and development, which vary considerably by age. Furthermore, in pediatrics, it is essential to record pregnancy and birth history, which are not relevant in adults. Another distinguishing factor is the assessment of the child's family, school, and social context, as well as the child's dependence on their caregivers, which influences both diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, the pediatric history not only includes previous illnesses but also environmental risk factors, family habits, and vaccination schedule adherence, all of which allow for a more comprehensive approach to the child's health.