What to Expect During This Visit
Your doctor and/or nurse will probably:
1. Check your child's weight, length, and head circumference and
plot the measurements on the growth
charts.
2. Do a screening test that helps identify developmental
delays or autism.
3. Ask questions, address concerns, and provide guidance about
how your toddler is:
Eating. Feed
your toddler three meals and two or three scheduled nutritious
snacks a day. Growth slows in the second year so don't be surprised if your child's
appetite decreases. Your child can drink from a cup and use a spoon but probably prefers
to finger-feed.
Peeing and pooping. You may notice your child's diapers are dryer
for longer periods, but most children do better with toilet training when they're
a little bit older, usually between 2 and 3 years. Let your doctor know if your child
has diarrhea, is constipated, or has poop that's hard to pass.
Sleeping. There's a wide range of normal, but generally toddlers
need about 12 to 14 hours
of sleep a day, including one or two daytime naps. By 18 months, most toddlers
have given up their morning nap.
Developing. By 18 months, it's common for many toddlers to:
4. Do a physical
exam with your child undressed while you are present. This will include
an eye exam, tooth exam, listening to the heart and lungs, and paying attention to
your toddler's motor skills and behavior.
5. Update immunizations. Immunizations
can protect kids from serious childhood illnesses, so it's important that your child
receive them on time. Immunization
schedules can vary from office to office, so talk to your doctor about what to
expect.
6. Order tests. Your doctor may test for lead
exposure or anemia,
if your child is at risk.