It can be a little scary to take your 18-month-old little one to the doctor's office, right? But this is the best time to learn about your baby's health and development. So let's take a look at what happens during this doctor's visit, and what you should expect.
BMI Calculator
Know your body mass index (BMI) and weight classification
What happens during a doctor's visit?
First, the doctor or nurse will measure your baby's weight, height, and head circumference . They will record these measurements on a special chart called a 'growth chart'. This is how they will check if your baby is growing properly.
Next, a small test (Screening Test) can be done to help identify possible developmental delays or conditions like Autism. If this is detected early, the baby can be given the help they need quickly.
Then the doctor will ask you some questions, talk about your problems, and give you advice on how your little one is doing these days. Let's see what that's about, shall we?
About food and drink
Your little one will be eating 3 main meals and 2-3 healthy snacks a day. At this age, that is, after a year, the growth rate of little ones slows down a bit, so their appetite may also decrease. Don't be surprised. They may now be able to drink from a cup and eat from a spoon, but they still probably prefer to eat by hand (finger-feed) .
About how to urinate and defecate
Check to see if your baby's diaper is dry for longer than usual. However, most toddlers are not fully toilet trained until they are a little older, usually between the ages of 2 and 3. If your baby has diarrhea, is constipated, or is having difficulty passing stool, be sure to tell your doctor.
About sleep
Toddlers this age typically need about 12-14 hours of sleep a day, including naps. By 18 months, most toddlers will have stopped taking morning naps .
About the development of the child (developmental milestones)
By 18 months, most toddlers should have started doing these things:
- Apart from the words "mom" and "dad", they try to say 3 or more words .
- Understands and follows a simple command (1-step direction) without any gestures (e.g., "Fetch the ball").
- When they see something very strange, they point their finger at you.
- Helps with getting dressed; for example, holding hands out or lifting legs.
- While you are doing homework.Imitating you.
- Trying to eat with a spoon.
- Just scribble with a crayon.
- Plays with toys in a simple way; for example, pushing a car.
- Walking alone without anyone's help.
- Gets on and off a chair or sofa without help.
Important: If your child is not meeting one or more of these developmental milestones , or if they have lost skills they used to be able to do, be sure to tell your doctor.
The doctor will undress your baby in front of you and perform a thorough examination . This will include an eye exam, dental exam, listening to the heart and lungs, and paying attention to your baby's motor skills and behavior.
It's important to get your vaccines on time at this time. Vaccines protect young children from serious illnesses, so they're important to get them on time. However, vaccine schedules can vary slightly from one doctor's office to another. So talk to your doctor about what to expect.
If necessary, the doctor may also order tests to check for lead levels or anemia .
Keep these things in mind until your child turns 2 years old.
Okay, now let's see what else you need to be careful about until your little one's next checkup, that is, the 2-year checkup.
No comments yet. Be the first to share your question or experience below.