Routine Well Visit: 18 Months

Development

Your baby should be interactive, socializing, and with increasing communication skills. They may show some interest in potty training, although don't rush to start. Greater success is seen when started after 24 months

  • Baby is walking well and can pull a toy along
  • Can throw a ball
  • Can stack 3 blocks, listen to a story — looking at pictures and naming objects
  • Says 15-20 words, and can use two word phases ( i.e. "Go bye-bye") Drinks from a cup and can use a spoon
  • Scribbles with a crayon
  • Shows affection and gives kisses
  • Sleep averages 12 hours total/day. Encourage and stay consistent with bedtime routines

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

  • Continue to give three meals per day and offer 2-3 nutritious snacks
  • Offer colorful foods that contain a wide variety of nutrients
  • Let your child self-feed
  • Your child will continue to drink whole (cow's) milk until age 2,
  • 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.
  • You may see the beginnings of temper tantrums — attend to hunger, sleep or other issues that may be the underlying causes. Stay consistent, calm and firm while you help your child to express their frustrations