Routine Well Visit: 15 Months

Development

  • Baby is walking well and can stoop down to pick something up
  • Can climb stairs
  • Understands simple commands
  • Communicates their needs by pulling, pointing or grunting
  • Says 3-6 words
  • Can point to a body part
  • Push toys, pull toys, stacking toys are great fun

Safety

Your child must be secured in a car seat for every ride! Baby should be in a rear facing car seat according to your seat's manufacturer guidelines. Seat weight and height requirements should be followed carefully.

  • Reexamine the child-proofing in the home from a toddler perspective. Toddlers are at increased risk for injury due to their increased locomotion and curiosity
  • Use extra caution in the kitchen; turn handles of cooking utensils away from the outer edge of the stove
  • Protective enclosures and alarms around pools or fountains
  • Never allow your toddler to play alone outside or with animals unsupervised Keep houseplants out of reach — many are poisonous
  • Keep the number for Poison Control in an accessible spot (800)- 222-1222

Nutrition

Some days are hungry days, others not so much. Think in terms of intake over several days when reviewing intake.

  • Give three meals per day and offer 2-3 nutritious snacks
  • Let your child decide what and how much to eat from an assortment of healthy foods They recognize the newness and difference of foods and craze the comfort of ritual. Still continue to offer new foods multiple times.
  • Your child may drink whole (cow's) milk —16 oz ounces per day is adequate
  • Sit when eating; avoid eating in the car, and take care to avoid small foods which can be choking hazards

Relationships

Growth, development and socialization are all learned through play. Your toddler may not yet play with others, but they will play alongside other children

  • Active toys are appropriate — swing sets, sandboxes, play kitchens, tools, musical toys, and riding toys without pedals
  • Continue reading together
  • Distraction and rewarding for positive behavior are appropriate techniques for discipline