Child's Well Visit, 30 Months: Care Instructions

Your child may start playing make-believe with their toys and imitating you. They can probably walk on tiptoes and jump with both feet. And they can use their fingers to pick up and hold smaller toys or to play with puzzles.

Keeping your child safe

• Always use a car seat. Install it in the back seat.
• Don't leave your child alone around water, including pools, hot tubs, and bathtubs.
• Know which foods cause choking, like grapes and hot dogs.
• Watch your child around cars, play equipment, and stairs.
• Keep hot items out of your child's reach to avoid burns.
• Save the number for Poison Control (1-800-222-1222).

Making your home safe

• Cover electrical outlets, and put locks or guards on windows.
• Check smoke detectors once a month.
• If your home was built before 1978, it may have lead paint. Tell your doctor.
• Keep guns away from children. If you have guns, lock them up unloaded. Lock ammunition away from guns.

Parenting your child

• Use body language, such as looking happy or sad, to let your child know how you feel about their behavior.
• Help your child feel a sense of control by giving them choices when you can.
• Try to ignore whining and other behavior that isn't harmful.
• Limit screen time to 1 hour or less a day.

Potty training your child

• Get your child their own little potty or a child-sized toilet seat that fits over a regular toilet.
• Praise your child when they use the potty. Support them when they have an accident.

Practicing healthy habits

• Give your child healthy foods, including fruits and vegetables.
• Offer water when your child is thirsty. Avoid juice and soda pop.
• Help your child brush their teeth every day using a tiny amount of toothpaste with fluoride.
• Make sure your child wears a helmet if they ride a tricycle.
• Do not let anyone smoke around your child.

Getting vaccines

• Make sure your child 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.