15 Month Well Child Check
Child development.
At this time your child should be walking, and even doing a little climbing. They can hold a large crayon and make some marks with it. The number of words they can say has usually increased to seven, although they are still more approximations of words ( “cah’ for cat). They are capable of listening and following directions.
Child growth.
As usual, we plot your child on the graph for weight, height, and head circumference. We like to make sure your child is growing according to the usual curve, and not ‘flattening out’ or not growing in one of the parameters.
General health.
We will examine your child, and watch how they move and interact with others. Often at this age they are crying most of the time we are examining them, but we’re used to it (it doesn’t hurt our feelings). We know it’s a developmental thing that will resolve in the next year or so.
Food and nutrition.
We still prefer whole milk for the fat and Vitamin D, although only about 16-24 ounces. Too much milk can cause iron not to be absorbed as well and can cause anemia. Otherwise they can generally eat what their family is eating, as long as it won’t make them choke. Some are starting to use utensils, although they aren’t very good at it.
Health history.
Let your pediatrician know if there have been any new visits to the ER, urgent care, or any specialists.
Family history.
Are there any new illnesses in the family, such as cancer, depression, or lupus? Let your pediatrician know.
Social history.
Let us know if your child has started going to daycare, or if there are any other changes in your child’s life.
Safety and health issues.
Your child is now very mobile and can climb things. They are smart enough to pull out drawers or move chairs to get where they want. Be sure that all poisons, medicines, sharp items are put where your child cannot get to them. Put the poison control number in a prominent place, or on your phone so you have it at hand when your child eats something they shouldn’t (1-800-222-1222).
Continue to keep your child backwards in the car seat until at least 30-40 pounds.
Vaccines.
The official CDC schedule offers some leeway in the exact timing of immunizations, so there may be some differences between pediatric offices in the first two years. However, be assured that your child is getting the immunizations they need at the appropriate times.
Links.
Ages and stages at healthychildren.org.
