Child's Well Visit, 12 Months: Care Instructions

Feeding your baby

• If you breastfeed, continue for as long as it works for you and your baby.
• Encourage your child to drink from a cup. Give them whole cow's milk, full-fat soy milk, or water.
• Let your child decide how much to eat.
• Offer healthy foods each day, including fruits and well-cooked vegetables.
• Cut or grind your child's food into small pieces.
• Make sure your child sits down to eat.
• Know which foods can cause choking, such as whole grapes and hot dogs.

Practicing healthy habits

• Brush your child's teeth every day. Use a tiny amount of toothpaste with fluoride.
• Put sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and a hat on your child before going outside.

Keeping your baby safe

• Don't leave your child alone around water, including pools, hot tubs, and bathtubs.
• Always use a rear-facing car seat. Install it in the back seat.
• Do not let your child play with toys that have small parts that can be removed and choked on.
• If your child can't breathe or cry, they may be choking. Call 911 right away.
• Keep cords out of your child's reach.
• Have child safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs.
• Save the number for Poison Control (1-800-222-1222).
• Keep guns away from children. If you have guns, lock them up unloaded. Lock ammunition away from guns.

Keeping your baby safe while they sleep

• Always put your baby to sleep on their back.
• Don't put sleep positioners, bumper pads, loose bedding, or stuffed animals in the crib.
• Don't sleep with your baby. This includes in your bed or on a couch or chair.
• Have your baby sleep in the same room as you for at least the first 6 months and up to a year if possible.
• Don't place your baby in a car seat, sling, swing, bouncer, or stroller to sleep.

Getting vaccines

• Make sure your baby gets all the recommended vaccines.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.