Can you believe your baby is already one month old? In addition to checking on your baby's developmental milestones, your pediatrician will also address what may feel like a million issues and questions. The list below are just some of the topics you may talk about at this visit.

✅ Immunizations

Your baby may receive a second dose of the Hepatitis B (HBV) vaccine at either the one-month or two-month checkup.

✅ Screenings

• This is a great time to talk with your pediatrician about how things are going at home with your new baby. They may ask about how well baby is eating, if you have enough food, and feel safe and comfortable.

• Your pediatrician might also ask how you are feeling. If you are feeling anxious or sad, or anything else, you are not alone and your pediatrician is ready to help.

✅Development & feeding

Your doctor will measure and weigh your baby to make sure their growth is on track, observe their development and behavior, and perform a physical exam.

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• How's your feeding routine going? If you are having any issues with feeding (breast or bottle) now is the time to address them.

• Tell me how you know what your baby wants. What is his cry like? Are the cries different at different times? What do you think they mean?

• How many wet diapers and stools does your baby have each day?

Questions you may have

• Is my baby developing normally?

• What are some of the developmental milestones my baby should reach around one month?

• What are some signs of feeding difficulties in a one month old?

  ✅Safety

  Questions your pediatrician may ask

  • Where is your baby sleeping at night?

  • What kind of car seat do you have?

  • If you are planning to return to work, have you chosen a child care provider?

  Questions you may have

  • What do I do when the crying is too much?

  • How do I know if my baby's crib is safe?

  • Where can I learn infant CPR?

  ✅ Urgent care & communication tips

  The management of acute care for children under age 2 requires special expertise. Therefore, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) does not recommend retail-based clinics, telehealth services outside of the medical home, and those acute care services without pediatric expertise for children younger than 2 years.

  Never hesitate to call your pediatrician's office with any questions or concerns—even if you know the office is closed. Pediatricians are very accustomed to taking phone calls at all times and can often deal with problems over the phone. If your pediatrician is unable to see you but believes your baby should be examined, he or she will advise you on the most appropriate place for your baby to receive care and how quickly your baby should be seen.

Can you believe it? Your baby is almost 2 months old and its time for another visit to the pediatrician. This appointment may cause some tears, so have your tissues ready. In addition to the usual physical exam, your baby may also get a few shots this time.

1. ✅ Immunizations

   During two-month checkups, most babies will be immunized against seven or eight different diseases. Typical immunizations​ given during your child's 2-month checkup include:

   • Hepatitis B vaccine (HBV)

   • Rotavirus vaccine

   • Diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis vaccine (DTaP)

   • Haemophilus influenza type B vaccine (Hib)

   • Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine f

   • Inactivated polio vaccine (IPV)

   It may have you thinking, "Is it really safe to give my baby that many shots at once?" The answer is yes. And luckily, your pediatrician can combine some shots so there's less pricking and hopefully less crying. See "Multiple Vaccinations at One Time."

   Get the most out of your time with your pediatrician and make a list of your questions ahead of time.

   ✅ Screenings

   • Maternal depression: Your pediatrician will ask you how you are feeling. If you are having postpartum issues with breastfeeding, anxiety, or sadness, or anything else, please feel free to discuss it with your baby's pediatrician.

   ✅Feeding & development

   Your pediatrician will measure and weigh your baby to make sure their growth is on track, observe their development and behavior, and perform a physical exam.

   Questions your pediatrician may ask

   • Do you have concerns about how your baby sees? Note that occasional crossing of the eyes is normal in these first months.

   • Is your baby getting enough tummy time? It's important for strengthening the head, neck, back, and shoulders.

   • How many times are you feeding your baby each day?

   Questions you may have

   • Is it normal for my baby to smile at me and not others?

   • When can my baby start solid foods?

   • How can I manage my older children while breastfeeding?

   ❓ Did you know
   We know breast milk​ storage can be confusing, so here's an easy way to remember: 4 hours at room temperature and 4 days in the refrigerator!

   ✅Safety

   Questions your pediatrician may ask

   • Do you own a changing table? Falls from a high surface can be serious. Keep a hand on your baby when you are dressing or changing him or her. Also remember not to leave your baby unattended on a bed or couch, since they may be rolling over soon soon (if not already)! Find more safety tips here.

   • How do you calm your baby when he or she is fussy? Here are some ideas to try.

   • Do put your baby on their back​ to sleep, both at naptime and nighttime? Do you need help searching for high-quality child care?

   Questions you may have

   • Is it safe for me to take medicine while breastfeeding? Always make sure that your doctor is aware of any medications you are taking while you are breastfeeding. Communication is important for optimizing the safety of both you and your baby.

   • What is a safe water temperature for my baby's bath? (The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends adjusting your water heater so the hottest temperature at the faucet is no more than 120 degrees Fahrenheit [48.9 degrees Celsius]).

   • If my baby rolls over when sleeping, is there a danger of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)?

   ✅ Communication tips

   Never hesitate to call your pediatrician's office with any questions or concerns—even if you know the office is closed. If your pediatrician is unable to see you but believes your baby should be examined, he or she will advise you on the most appropriate place for your baby to receive care and how quickly your baby should be seen.

Your baby is getting bigger! They're also growing more interested in what you're doing. They may coo to get your attention. You may even hear a little chuckle if you try to make them laugh.

It's time for your baby's next well-child visit. In addition to the standard physical exam and measurements, here's what you can expect at your baby's 4-month checkup.

✅ Immunizations

At the 4-month visit, your baby may receive the second doses of the following vaccines:

• Rotavirus vaccine

• Diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis vaccine (DTaP)

• Haemophilus influenza type B vaccine (Hib)

• Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV)

• Inactivated polio vaccine (IPV)

✅ Screenings

• Postpartum depression: Your pediatrician will ask you how you are feeling. If you are having postpartum issues with anxiety or sadness, or anything else, please feel free to discuss it with your baby's pediatrician.
• Hematocrit or hemoglobin screening: If your baby was born preterm or with a low birth weight, they may receive this blood screening that helps detect anemia. Your pediatrician may ask you if your baby is drinking anything other than breast milk or iron-fortified formula, as it is a risk factor for developing anemia.

✅Feeding & development

Your pediatrician will measure and weigh your baby to make sure their growth is on track, observe their development and behavior, and perform a physical exam.

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• How does your baby fall asleep? Are you giving them a bottle?

• Do you have questions about cleaning your baby's gums and teething?

• If you are breastfeeding, are you giving your baby an iron supplement? (The AAP recommends giving breastfed infants 1 mg/kg/day of a liquid iron supplement until iron-containing solid foods are introduced at about six months of age).

Questions you may have

• How do I know if my baby's physical development is on track?

• When do I start my baby on solid foods? Which foods do I start with?

• My baby drools and blows bubbles a lot. Is this normal?

• When can I start reading to my baby?

✅Safety

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• Where does your baby sleep at night? A safe sleep space is crucial.

• Are you placing baby in a rear-facing car seat?

• Is your home's water heater set so the temperature at the faucet is at or below 120 degrees Fahrenheit (59 degress Celsius)?

Questions you may have

• How do I help calm my baby when they get fussy?

• Is it safe for my baby to be near someone who is vaping?

• Is it safe to use amber teething necklaces?

✅ Communication tips

Never hesitate to call your pediatrician's office with any questions or concerns—even if you know the office is closed. If your pediatrician is unable to see you but believes your baby should be examined, they will advise you on the most appropriate place for your baby to receive care and how quickly your baby should be seen.

Happy half-birthday to your beautiful baby! By 6 months, most babies have doubled their birth weights. Your 6-month checkup will cover a lot, so get your questions ready!

✅ Immunizations

At the 6-month visit, your baby may receive the third doses of the following vaccines​.

• Rotavirus vaccine

• Diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis vaccine (DTaP)

• Haemophilus influenza type B vaccine (Hib)

• Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV)

• Inactivated polio vaccine (IPV)

• Hepatitis B vaccine (HBV)

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommend the seasonal influenza vaccine (flu shot) for children 6 months of age and older as soon as it becomes available. So, if your pediatrician has the influenza vaccine available, be sure to add that one to your checklist.

Note: Infants and children up to 8 years of age who are getting their flu shot for the first time may need two doses, given at least four weeks apart. Be sure to follow up with your baby's second dose if they get their first one at this appointment.

✅ Screenings

• Dental health check: Your pediatrician may apply fluoride varnish after your baby's first tooth appears. Most babies begin to cut teeth around 6 months of age.

• Postpartum depression: Your pediatrician will ask you how you are feeling. If you or your partner are having postpartum issues with breastfeeding, anxiety, or sadness, or anything else, please feel free to discuss it with your baby's pediatrician.

✅Feeding & development

Your pediatrician will measure and weigh your baby to make sure their growth is on track, observe their development and behavior, and perform a physical exam.

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• Have you started giving your baby solid foods?

• Is your baby rolling over or able to sit up briefly?

• Has your baby first tooth started to come in?

Questions you may have

• What's the best way to treat diaper rash?

• When do babies start to crawl?

• How can I help in my baby's language development? Share books with your baby. Here's how.

• What should I do if my baby doesn't like trying new foods​?

✅Safety

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• Have you childproofed your home?

• Do you know what to do in a choking emergency? Once baby is eating solid foods, remember to only give very soft, small bites of finger foods.

Questions you may have

• How can I reduce my baby's chances of developing RSV and bronchiolitis?

• What should the babysitter know about feeding the baby now? Here's what caregivers need to know about feeding children.

✅ Communication t​ips

Never hesitate to call your pediatrician's office with any questions or concerns—even if you know the office is closed. If your pediatrician is unable to see you but believes your baby should be examined, they will advise you on the most appropriate place for your baby to receive care and how quickly your baby should be seen.

9 months...you're becoming a pro at this! Your baby may be sitting up on their own and getting ready to crawl. Your doctor can guide you through what to expect as they become more active and mobile. Here's what else you can expect at this checkup:

✅ Immunizations

At the 9-month visit, your baby may receive the final dose of the hepatitis B vaccine (HBV) and/or the third dose of the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) if they did not get those at the last checkup.

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommend the seasonal influenza vaccine (flu shot) for children 6 months of age and older as soon as it becomes available. So, if your pediatrician has the influenza vaccine available, be sure to add that one to your checklist.

Note: Infants and children up to 8 years of age who are getting their flu shot for the first time may need two doses, given at least four weeks apart. Be sure to follow up with your baby's second dose if they get their first one at this appointment.

✅ Screenings

• Developmental screening: This may be a more formal developmental test than your baby had at past appointments. Your pediatrician will ask you a series of questions about your baby's growth and behavior and may ask you to play with your baby during the screening to observe. The results will show whether your baby is developing at a normal rate or further testing for developmental delays are needed. If your baby is at a greater risk for developmental problems because of preterm birth or low birth weight or has a sibling who has an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), they may receive these screenings more frequently.

• Dental check: Your pediatrician may apply fluoride varnish after your baby's first tooth appears.

✅Feeding & development

Your pediatrician will measure and weigh your baby to make sure their growth is on track, observe their development and behavior, and perform a physical exam.

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• Do you have concerns about how your child sees or hears?

• What is your baby's nighttime routine like?

• Can your baby pull to stand?

Questions you may have

• When should I discontinue the bottle?

• My baby has separation anxiety. How can I help?

• How much should my baby be eating now? (Note: At this age, give 3 meals and 2–3 snacks each day.)

✅Safety

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• Are the TVs and furniture in your home secured to the wall? We can't stop our little ones from climbing. We can stabilize the things they climb on. Read about how to help prevent furniture and TV tip-overs.

• Are you taking any alone time for yourself? It isn't selfish—taking time for yourself makes you a better mom!

• Do you find yourself telling your baby "No!" a lot? (Tip: Use "No!" only when your baby is going to get hurt or hurt others.)

Questions you may have

• How do I know if the toys I am buying are safe? How can I tell if something has been recalled?

• What are some safe ways to ease my baby's teething pain? (Note: Numbing gels or creams that contain benzocaine are not recommended for infants.)

• When do I need to buy a new car seat? (The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends all infants and toddlers ride in a rear-facing car seat until they are at least 2 years of age or, preferably, until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their car seat manufacturer.)

✅ Communication tips

Never hesitate to call your pediatrician's office with any questions or concerns—even if you know the office is closed. If your pediatrician is unable to see you but believes your baby should be examined, they will advise you on the most appropriate place for your baby to receive care and how quickly your baby should be seen.

Happy first birthday to your baby! That little bundle you first held is now a budding toddler, soon to take their first steps (if they haven't already). Be sure to share all your proud-parent moments with your pediatrician. Here's what you can expect at the 12-month checkup:

✅ Immunizations

At the 12-month visit, your baby may receive vaccines for measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Hepatitis A, and Varicella (chickenpox). They may also be due for a booster shot for earlier vaccines. If it's flu season, your doctor will also recommend an influenza (flu) vaccine.

✅ Screenings

The doctor will check your child for anemia at this visit. Based on your child's risk, they may also test blood lead level, hearing, vision, and blood pressure. If your child may have been exposed to tuberculosis, they can do a skin test.

✅Feeding & development

Your pediatrician will measure and weigh your baby to make sure their growth is on track. They will also observe their development and behavior, and perform a physical exam.

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• Has your baby tried to stand or take their first steps without support?

• How is your baby doing with feeding themselves during meals and snacks?

• If your baby is formula fed, have you started to switch to whole milk?

Questions you may have

• What is the best way to react to a tantrum? Are time-outs OK when my child isn't following directions?

• How can I help my child fall asleep at bedtime?

• How can I encourage my child to try new foods?

• Is it normal for my baby's appetite to change a lot from meal to meal?

✅Safety

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• Do you have stair guards and window guards? Where is the mattress positioned in the crib?

• Do you apply sunscreen and put a hat on your child when they play outside?

• Are there swimming pools or other potential water dangers near or in your home? Are you thinking about starting your child in a swimming program?

Questions you may have

• How long do I need to keep pillows and other soft objects out of the crib?

• Should I use a baby walker?

• Can I put the car safety seat in the front seat of my car?

✅ Communication tips

Never hesitate to call your pediatrician's office with any questions or concerns—even if you know the office is closed. If your pediatrician is unable to see you but believes your baby should be examined, they will advise you on the most appropriate place for your baby to receive care and how quickly your baby should be seen.

You now have a full-fledged toddler to keep up with! Those first tentative steps have likely given way to determined dashes to explore everything around them. This is a great time to talk with your child's pediatrician about creating a safe and structured environment that also allows your fearless explorer freedom to learn from their surroundings.

As usual, the doctor will also perform a physical exam and check your child's progress toward important milestones. Here's what else you can expect at the 15-month checkup:

✅ Immunizations

Depending on which vaccines your child got at the 6-and 12-month visits, they may be due for DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis), Hib (haemophilus influenzae type B), PCV 13 (pneumococcal disease), measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), or Varicella (chickenpox). They can also get Hep B (hepatitis B), inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) and HepA (hepatitis A) doses now or at a later visit. If it's flu season, your doctor will also recommend an influenza (flu) vaccine.

✅ Screenings

The doctor may check your child for anemia at this visit. Based on certain risk factors, they may also test blood pressure, hearing and vision. Unless your child has already visited the dentist, your pediatrician will check for any new teeth that need an application of fluoride varnish. Teeth that were treated with varnish at least 6 months ago get another application.

✅Feeding & Development

Your pediatrician will measure and weigh your baby to make sure their growth is on track. They will also observe their development and behavior and perform a physical exam.

Questions Your Pediatrician May Ask

• Can your child drink from a cup with little spilling?

• Do they look around when you say things like "Where's your ball?" or "Where's your blanket?"

• Do they use at least 3 words other than names like "Mama" and "Dada?"

• Can they squat to pick up objects?

Questions You May Have

• How can I help my child learn to cooperate when playing with other children?

• What should I do when my child doesn't finish their food at mealtime?

• Is it OK for my child to sleep with a bottle?

• What is the best way to react when my child misbehaves?

✅Safety

Questions Your Pediatrician May Ask

• How do you keep hot liquids out of your toddler's reach?

• Do you have a working smoke detector on every level of your home, especially in the furnace and sleeping areas? When were they last tested?

• Is the furniture in your home anchored to the wall?

• Do you have gates at the top and bottom of stairs, and window guards on second- and higher-story windows?

Questions You May Have

• When should I enroll my child in a swimming program?

• How do I know when it is safe to replace our child's crib with a toddler bed?

• Which emergency numbers should I have in my cell phone and give to my babysitter?

• How can I be sure I am using my child's car safety seat correctly?

✅ Communication Tips

Never hesitate to call your pediatrician's office with any questions or concerns—even if you know the office is closed. If your pediatrician is unable to see you but believes your baby should be examined, they will advise you on the most appropriate place for your baby to receive care and how quickly your baby should be seen.

At a year-and-a-half old, your toddler is excited to be learning more skills. Having mastered walking, they may now be climbing onto chairs and other short pieces of furniture without help. You may find them beaming and clapping for themselves after these impressive feats, looking to you for praise.

Your 18-month-old may insist on going wherever they want one moment, then cling to you the next. They do this to remind themselves of their secure emotional base, which gives them the confidence to explore. Extra patience and a sense of humor can help you with the tough task of setting limits and then regularly reinforcing them.

At the 18-month wellness visit, the pediatrician will perform a complete physical exam and check your child's progress toward important milestones. Here's what else you can expect at this checkup:

✅ Immunizations

Depending on vaccines your child received at their previous visits, they may be due for a dose of HepA (hepatitis A), for example, or DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis). If it's flu season, your doctor will also recommend an influenza (flu) vaccine. See "Vaccines Your Child Needs by Age 6."

✅ Health Screenings

Based on your child's risk factors or any symptoms or concerns, your pediatrician may screen and recommend tests for anemia, lead poisoning, blood pressure, hearing or vision problems. Unless your child has already visited the dentist, your pediatrician will check for any new teeth that need an application of fluoride varnish. Teeth that were treated with varnish at least 6 months ago get another application.

✅Developmental Screenings

Your pediatrician will measure and weigh your baby to make sure their growth is on track. They will also discuss any questions you have about your child's behavior and development. In addition, they will ask you to complete developmental and autism spectrum disorder screening questionnaires. These tools help pediatricians and families decide if more evaluations are needed and if a child might benefit from early intervention services like speech and physical therapy.

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• Does your child engage with others for play? Have they started to enjoy scribbling or pretend play?

• Do they help dress and undress themselves?

• Do they point to pictures in a book, or to show you something interesting?

• Do they try to copy some of your actions, like sweeping with a broom?

• Do they turn and look at you if something new happens?

• Do they use words to ask for help?

Questions you may have

• How will I know when my child is ready to begin toilet training?

• Is it OK to use time-outs?

• What's the best way to calm them when they're upset?

• What are some ideas for ways to play with them?

• Should my child watch TV or videos or use other digital media?

• How often should I read to my toddler?

✅Feeding & Healthy Nutrition

Your pediatrician will nutritious foods and beverages for your child, and how expressing independence through food likes and dislikes is completely normal.

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• Does your child drink water every day?

• How many ounces of dairy milk do they drink most days? Is it whole milk or lower fat milk?

• Do you offer a variety of vegetables, fruits and other nutritious foods?

• How do you feel if your child doesn't eat what you have prepared for them? What do you do?

• Have they started trying to use a spoon?

Questions you may have

• If my child doesn't want to eat what I prepared, should I offer them something else?

• Should I give them juice?

• What if my child doesn't eat three full meals each day?

• What are some good snacks to give them?

• Their appetite seems to be less than it used to be. Is this normal?

✅Safety

Your pediatrician will talk with you about ways to help keep your child safe from injury and other harms.

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• Have you secured furniture to the wall so it can't tip and fall onto your child?

• Do you use gates at the top and bottom of stairs, and keep furniture they can climb on away from windows?

• If there are firearms in your home, are they stored unloaded and locked in a case, with ammunition stored in a separate locked location?

• How do you keep hot liquids out of your toddler's reach?

Questions you may have

• How long should my child continue riding in a rear-facing car safety seat?

• What's the best sunscreen to use for kids, and when do they need it?

• How old should my child be before we get a pet?

• What should I do if my child has a poisoning emergency?

✅ Communication Tips

Never hesitate to call your pediatrician's office with any questions or concerns—even if you know the office is closed. If your pediatrician is unable to see you but believes your baby should be examined, they will advise you on the most appropriate place for your baby to receive care and how quickly your baby should be seen.

Your two-year-old is entering a key time for social and emotional development, when toddlers transition to early childhood. This age is a challenging delight.

Two-year-olds are extremely curious, constantly exploring and trying things repeatedly as they make sense of the world around them. After all, they need to try out new skills they gain seemingly every day.

At this age, it is normal for your child to have roller coaster emotions. Transitions may be tough, and choices overwhelming. Meals can be challenging. Your child may develop fears of loud sounds, animals or unpredictable events. They may even throw a tantrum to get their way.

But they are able to notice emotions in others and will look to you to see your reactions. Modeling positive responses and solutions helps to nurture good behavior and self-confidence.Through reading, playing and letting them see how you handle things, you are a teacher for your child in every way.

What to expect at the 2-year-old checkup

At the 24-month (2-year-old) checkup visit, your child's pediatrician will perform a complete physical exam. They will also ask about your concerns and assess language development along with progress towards other milestones. Here's what else to expect at this doctor visit:

✅ Immunizations

By two, most toddlers have received all of the early recommended vaccines. Your doctor will catch up on any that were missed or delayed. Expect an influenza (flu) vaccine if it's flu season, or a recommendation to get one later when the season arrives. Also, your pediatrician likely will discuss the latest guidelines regarding COVID-19. See "Vaccines Your Child Needs by Age 6."

✅ Health Screenings

Following a head-to-toe physical exam, your pediatrician will screen for autism and lead poisoning. Depending on your child's risk factors, the doctor may also screen for anemia, tuberculosis, blood pressure, along with hearing and vision problems. If your child doesn't yet have a dentist, a fluoride varnish may be applied. Also, pediatricians may talk with you about topics like home safety, food security, and car seat safety. They may ask if you have the things you need to take care of your child.

✅Developmental Screenings

You know your child best. So be sure to share any questions and concerns you have about your child's behavior and development. Your pediatrician may ask you a range of questions to better understand your child's social and emotional milestones, language development and cognitive milestones. For example, they may ask if your child plays with more than one toy at the same time, can kick a ball and eat with a spoon. As much as asking about these milestones, your pediatrician will be observing your child for them during the visit. See the CDC's "Important Milestones: Your Child By Two Years."

Just as in the 18-month checkup, you will be asked to complete an autism spectrum disorder screening questionnaire. These types of screenings are used to identify children who may benefit from further evaluation and possible intervention services that are most effective when started early. If your doctor doesn't do a screening, you can ask for one.

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• When asked, can your child point to at least two body parts, and identify pictures in a book through pointing?

• Do they use buttons, knobs and switches on toys?

• How does your child act around others?

• What are some of the new things your child is doing?

• What do you and your partner enjoy most about your child? What is most difficult?

• Tell me how your child plays.

Questions you may have

• When can we start potty training?

• How long should a time out last?

• Is screen time OK?

• When will my child reach specific milestones?

• When should we switch from the crib to a big kid bed?

• My child is having sleep issues; what do I do?

✅Feeding & Healthy Nutrition

A two-year-old should have three meals a day, with one to two snacks in between. Offer healthy choices, but let your child decide how much food to eat. Choking is a hazard at this age so be sure to review this list of dangerous foods.

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• What kinds of drinks do you give your child? How much milk does your child drink each day?

• How often is your family eating meals together?

• What kinds of foods are you offering your child for meals and snacks?

• Do you have a picky eater? What do you do?

• Can your child drink from a cup?

Questions you may have

• How do I get my child to prefer healthy foods?

• How big should serving sizes be?

• Should I give them juice? How much water should my child be drinking each day?

• Are there substitutions I can give my child if they won't drink milk or eat certain vegetables?

• Does my child need supplements?

✅Safety

Be sure to ask about your concerns around safety. Your pediatrician may also talk to you about issues like outdoor safety and possible risks in the home.

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• Does anyone in your home smoke?

• Do you have a pool or take your child around water? What precautions do you take for your child?

• Do you always feel safe in your home?

• How do you secure home gym equipment?

Questions you may have

• Does my child still have to ride in a rear-facing car safety seat?

• Should I use bug spray on my child?

• How do I know if playground equipment is safe for my child to use?

• What do I do in a poisoning emergency?

✅ Communication Tips

If you have a question or concern about your child's health, development or behavior, don't hesitate to call your pediatrician's office.

At 2 ½ years old, your toddler will have built on all of the skills that were beginning to blossom at age 2. Physically, children this age have more control over their bodies. They can jump with both feet, run and slow quickly to a stop. They can take off some clothes, and use their fingers to turn doorknobs and pages of a book.

The way they play is more advanced as well. Children this age love to act out things they see family members do. They may pretend to feed a doll or talk on a phone. They like routine and order, lining up toys and even categorizing them. They may request the same story at bedtime over and over. Children this age like to play independently but also collaborate sometimes. They may play next to other children one moment, and with them the next.

Your child may have more to say these days, as 30-month-olds use words more to communicate. Their vocabulary has expanded to about 50 words, and they use phrases of two or more words. They may name what they see in a picture book if you point and ask, "What is this?"

Besides performing a complete physical exam and asking you about your concerns, the pediatrician will focus on language and social development at the 30-month checkup. Here's what else to expect at this visit:

✅ Immunizations

At 30 months, most children are caught up with vaccinations. Your pediatrician will recommend the influenza (flu) vaccine if it's flu season, and likely will discuss the latest Covid-19 guidelines. Any missed or delayed vaccines will be given. See "Vaccines Your Child Needs by Age 6."

✅ Health Screenings

Your pediatrician will perform a physical exam and plot your child's growth on a CDC Growth Chart. Your child's coordination, use of words, and socialization will be observed. The pediatrician will be looking to see how you and your child communicate, and what questions and phrases your child uses. If the child doesn't yet have a dentist, a fluoride varnish may be applied to their teeth. The pediatrician may ask about any emergency room visits, and assess risk for hearing and vision problems.

✅Developmental Screenings

Keep in mind that not all children reach milestones at the same time, but don't wait out any concerns. If your child does not meet CDC developmental milestones, or is losing skills, share your concerns and ask about developmental screening. Complete a CDC milestone checklist or use the milestone tracker app. Early action ensures your child will have access to interventions like speech therapy. States offer Early Intervention programs including evaluations, therapies, and other services for children under age three. Some services are free.

Social development also is important at this age. Your pediatrician may ask how often your child plays with other children and how playtimes go. Playdates and playgroups are good ways to promote social development if your toddler isn't in child care or preschool.

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• Does your child engage in imaginary play with toys?

• Can your child name at least one color?

• Is your child able to grasp a crayon with their thumb and finger, rather than making a fist?

• What new things is your child doing now? Can your child catch a large ball?

• Is your child using a potty or toilet?

• Does your child try to get you to watch them by saying "Look at me!"

• Tell me about your child's personality? What are favorite things, people, and activities?

Questions you may have

• I need advice for potty training problems.

• What should I look for in a preschool?

• How do I handle separation anxiety?

• When should we start swim lessons?

• My child has a stutter. What do I need to do?

• How much sleep does my child need?

✅Feeding & Healthy Nutrition

Just like two-year-olds, this age should have three meals, and one to two snacks a day. Provide healthy food, and then allow your child to choose how much to eat. Offer drinks in cups, and encourage the use of utensils.

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• What routines do you have for meals?

• Is your child using a cup? Can your child spear food with a fork?

• How many cups of water and milk is your child drinking each day?

Questions you may have

• How much food should I be offering my child?

• How can I get my child to eat more fruits and vegetables?

• What snacks are choking hazards?

• My child doesn't like certain foods. Should I keep offering them?

• Could my child have a food allergy?

• Is my child overweight? If so, what can I do?

• Can I start giving my child screen time?

✅Safety

As your child is more mobile, you may have more questions about safety. Your pediatrician will be concerned about car seat safety, water safety, and outdoor safety. Unintentional injury is the number one cause of death in young children.

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• Does your child wear a helmet when riding as a passenger on a bike?

• How do you keep your child safe around water?

• Do you supervise your child around animals?

• How do you supervise your child outside to keep them safe?

Questions you may have

• What kind of car seat should we be using?

• How can I keep my child safe at the playground? What about the playset in my backyard?

• How do I handle a dental emergency?

✅ Communication Tips

One of your pediatrician's top priorities is to answer your questions and address your concerns. Don't hesitate to ask about your child's health, development, or behavior. Your pediatrician can offer advice on further evaluations if they are needed, and refer to specialists if warranted. Also, if your pediatrician is unable to see your child, but thinks care is necessary, they will let you know how quickly your child needs medical attention and advise you where to go.

Your 3-year-old is becoming a self-determined individual. Whether getting dressed, climbing stairs or washing hands, they may prefer to do it "all by myself." Now that they can be understood most of the time, 3-year-olds can also negotiate. Don't be surprised if they tell you exactly what they want to eat or wear.

At this age, your child may talk more with other kids when they play together. Your 3-year-old is also beginning to develop a sense of right and wrong, and can follow simple rules. Imaginative play appears, along with the ability for simple games like matching things. Supervised playdates with other children and structured preschool will help them develop many skills.

Although 3-year-olds want to do more and can do more by themselves, supervision and rules are important. They have a strong urge to explore and learn, but have not yet developed a sense of good judgment.

What to expect at the 3-year well-child visit

At the 3-year-old checkup, your pediatrician will perform a complete physical exam and ask about your concerns. The doctor also will focus on reading and language development, healthy nutrition, and the prevention of safety risks like falls from windows, firearms and navigating street crossings and parking lots.

Here's what else to expect at this visit:

✅ Immunizations

Your child likely will be caught up with vaccinations, but any missed or delayed will be given at this visit. As always, your pediatrician will recommend the influenza (flu) vaccine during flu season, and talk about the latest COVID-19 guidelines. If your child needs a vaccine, the CDC offers tips to make it less stressful. See "Vaccines Your Child Needs by Age 6."

✅ Health Screenings

Your pediatrician will perform a full physical exam including a vision and oral health screening. The doctor will screen for risks like exposure to lead, which can be found in some water pipes, paint in homes built before 1978, and some toys. Because exposure affects IQ and development, the CDC has developed a program around lead poisoning prevention.

Also, pediatricians will take time during this visit to address possible needs around food security, child care, and safe living conditions. If needed, your doctor can provide community resources offering housing, food and social support.

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• Has your child received any specialty or emergency care since the last visit? Or, has your child or anyone in the family developed a new health condition?

• Do you have enough heat, hot water, and electricity? Do you have problems with bugs, rodents, peeling paint or plaster, mold, or dampness?

• How are your resources for caring for your child? Do you have health insurance? Enough money for food, clothing, and child care?

• Does anyone in your home smoke, drink or use drugs?

✅Developmental Screenings

If you child is not meeting CDC developmental milestones, or if there are things your child does or can't do that concerns you, bring those up during your visit. Don't wait out any concerns. Your child may need to see a specialists for more evaluation. Or, screenings and some intervention services may be available through your local elementary school.

Positive family interactions are extremely important at this age. This is a time to discipline by praising positive behaviors, and using time-outs for behaviors like hitting or biting. Your pediatrician may observe how you interact with your child. They may also ask how you reinforce limits and settle conflicts.

If they haven't already, your doctor will ask about preschool plans. If you choose not to enroll your child in child care or preschool, they can suggest other ways to build school readiness.

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• Has anything changed at home since your last visit?

• Is your child potty trained?

• Can your child put on a piece of clothing like a jacket or shirt? Can your child pedal a tricycle?

• Has your child lost any skills they once had?

• When shown how to draw a circle, can your child draw one? Can they use scissors, a fork?

• How does your child play with other children?

• How much screen time is your child getting?

Questions you may have

• What should my child be able to do at this age?

• What should I look for in a preschool?

• When will my child be ready to read? How can I prepare my child for reading?

• What activities can I do with my child? What about motor skill development?

• My child has a security blanket. Is that ok?

• My child sucks their thumb. Should I be concerned?

✅Feeding & Healthy Nutrition

It's not unusual for a child's appetite to drop at this age. Provide healthy options; then allow your child to decide how much to eat. Your child may eat one regular meal, and consume the rest of their calories in small meals and snacks. Your pediatrician may ask about what your child has to drink. Be aware that many drinks, other than milk, offer little nutritional value.

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• Do you consider your child a healthy eater?

• What do you do if your child doesn't eat what you've made?

• What does your child drink each day? How much water and milk?

Questions you may have

• What should my child be eating?

• What do you think about milk alternatives?

• Can I give my child fruit juice?

• My child has a sweet tooth. What can I do?

• Is choking still a concern?

✅Safety

Safety is a big concern for this age because the leading cause of death for young children is unintentional injury.

Questions your pediatrician may ask

• Is your child still using a rear-facing car safety seat installed in the back seat of your car?

• Are you still cutting up foods like grapes and hot dogs into small pieces?

• Do you use window guards for windows on the second floor or higher?

• Are there firearms in the home? If so, are they locked in a secure place?

• How are you practicing pool and water safety?

Questions you may have

• How can I keep my child safe at a playdate?

• How can I keep my child safe in the kitchen?

• What do I do in a dental emergency?

✅ Communication Tips

Your pediatrician's top priority is to attend to your concerns. Be sure to bring them to your doctor, who may refer you to care elsewhere if it is after hours or if a specialist is needed. Pediatricians also can refer you to resources available in your community.