It’s almost time for your little one’s two-year checkup, a moment that often brings up concerns about developmental milestones or the size of their head. However, you can take a deep breath knowing that pediatricians recognize that milestones are not rigid standards; they can vary significantly from child to child.
That said, it’s easy to embellish the truth about your toddler’s habits. You might feel tempted to claim that your child is a vegetable aficionado when, in reality, their diet consists primarily of chicken nuggets and yogurt. Similarly, you may report minimal screen time, despite knowing “minimal” means a couple of hours each day. Providing an accurate picture of your toddler’s lifestyle is crucial for identifying any potential issues that may arise.
Many toddlers find doctors intimidating. Your child may not remember their pediatrician’s warm demeanor and comforting voice, but they certainly recall the last time they were on that examination table and received a shot. Fortunately, the two-year appointment doesn’t involve many vaccines—just the hepatitis A shot is necessary.
To help your toddler prepare for a doctor visit, consider reading books or watching episodes of their favorite shows that feature medical themes, such as those with familiar characters like Benny and Lucy. You can also play with a doctor kit, explaining what each tool does. If your child is anxious about getting a shot, be honest about it; tell them it will be quick, and reassure them that you’ll be right there for support. Avoid using the doctor as a threat, such as saying, “Eat your veggies, or you’ll have to go to—dramatic pause—the doctor.” Lastly, shower them with praise post-checkup, and maybe treat them to ice cream; it’s always a winning reward.
Tip:
When planning a fun reward after the checkup, focus on the accomplishment of getting through it together, rather than just on your child’s behavior during the visit. It’s understandable that anxiety can take over, and celebrating the experience itself is important.
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In summary, your toddler’s upcoming doctor’s appointment is an opportunity to assess their growth and development while addressing any concerns. By being honest about their habits and preparing them positively, you can help ease their anxiety and make the visit a success.