Going to the Emergency Room

When your child is sick or injured, it’s natural to panic and head straight for the emergency room (ER), because you know that you can get care, regardless of the time, day, or severity of your child’s injury. In some cases, it is a true medical emergency and the ER …

How Can I Comfort My Baby During Shots?

My baby cries uncontrollably when she gets a shot. Is there anything I can do to make the experience less traumatic for her? – KateGetting shots can be tough on you and your child, but the benefits are worth the effort. Fortunately, you can do a few things to make …

Immunization Schedule

This schedule of recommended immunizations may vary depending upon where you live, your child’s health, the type of vaccine, and the vaccines available. Some of the vaccines may be given as part of a combination vaccine so that a child gets fewer shots. Talk with your doctor about which vaccines …

Is it a Medical Emergency?

Even healthy kids get hurt or sick sometimes. In some cases, you will know that you need to head straight to the emergency room (ER) at the nearest hospital. In other cases, it’s harder to determine whether an injury or illness needs the attention of a medical professional or can …

Medical Care and Your 1- to 2-Year-Old

The toddler months continue to bring the medical challenges of colds, scrapes and bruises, and other minor emergencies. You’ll also find yourself dealing with an emerging personality and increasing conflicts. Your doctor will see your child four times for routine well visits during this period, at 12, 15, 18, and …

Medical Care and Your 1- to 3-Month-Old

During these early months, you might have many questions about your baby’s health. Most doctors have phone hours when parents can call with routine questions. Don’t hesitate to call with your concerns, no matter how minor they might seem. Of course, if you think your baby could have an illness, …

Medical Care and Your 13- to 18-Year-Old

By meeting yearly with your teen, the doctor can keep track of changes in physical, mental, and social development and offer advice about avoiding unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking and drinking. The doctor also can help your teen understand the importance of choosing a healthy lifestyle that includes good nutrition, proper …

Medical Care and Your 2- to 3-Year-Old

Well-Child Visits Regular well-child exams are an important part of keeping kids healthy and up to date on immunizations against many serious childhood diseases. Checkups also are a chance for you and the doctor to talk about developmental and safety issues, and for you to get answers to any questions about your …

Medical Care and Your 4- to 5-Year-Old

The Well-Child Visit Regular well-child exams are an important part of keeping kids healthy and up to date on immunizations against many serious childhood diseases. Checkups also are a chance for you and the doctor to talk about developmental and safety issues, and for you to get answers to any …

Medical Care and Your 4- to 7-Month-Old

Babies really begin to show their personality during these months. So you might find yourself talking to your baby’s doctor less about sleeping and eating and more about physical and social development. Most likely your baby will now be seen at 4 months and at 6 months, but your doctor may schedule extra …