Friday, November 21, 2014

Halloween Safety for Toddlers



For Dr. Walkers Daughter Zara we choose a collapsable lightsaber to prevent injuries and a light-weight flannel robe that doesn't flow to much so as to prevent tripping!  And of course Baby Jedi's are always cool!!

Costume safety is the primary concern for a safe and happy Halloween for toddlers.  Follow these basic tips when making or selecting your childs’ costume to keep them safe.

* To keep toddler’s on their feet, avoid costumes with long tails or costumes that  that don’t fit well.       
* Keep your toddler visible by using reflective tape or having them wear a glittery costume.

* Beware of Pointy Props such as crowns, swords or other fake weapons.  You can sew stuffed ones or make foam ones instead.

* Choose Costumes that practice fire safety and keep fire away from them as many of the store bought costumes can be flammable and hot jack-o-latterns can be hazardous.

* Choose non toxic paint over a wearing a mask since masks can make breathing hard and difficult to see out.

* Be aware of props that can frighten or cause physical harm since a toddler will be curious of witches or lighted coffins.

* After an evening of trick-or-treating, check all candy for tampering; consider swapping the candy for healthier alternatives.

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

One year Check up Expectations

At a Child’s one-year check up, here is a list of what you can expect the doctor to check.  Prior to the check up, it is a good idea to look at your child and be able to answer the doctor’s questions fully and completely.

One year check up:

1.         Height and Weight
2.         Length and Head Circumference
3.         Heart and Lungs: Listening for abnormal heart rhythms and breathing issues
4.         Eyes:  Congenital eye conditions and blocked tear ducts
5.         Ears:  Signs of infection and make sure the eardrum is moving
6.         Mouth:  Signs of infection, new teeth and number of teeth
7.         Body: Check for reflexes and muscle tone, paleness of skin (iron-deficiency anemia)
8.         Belly:  enlarged organs and possible hernia issues
9.         Genitals:  signs of infection or rash normal genital development
10.      Joints:  Hips, Legs and shoulders, checking for normal range of motion and movement  
11.      Nap and sleep:  children need about 14 hours of sleep split between nighttime sleep and nap time
12.      Walking and Crawling:  Where your child is at in development stages of cruising, walking or crawling
13.      Talking:  What words are your child saying or babbling?
14.      Social Skills:  How is your child acting?


Zara’s check up put her on target for her developmental skills.  Healthy  babies make mom and dad happy