Well-Toddler Care: 15- to 18-Month Visit
Your child is becoming more entertaining with each day that passes. Imitation is important, and this may be the only time in her childhood that she shows an interest in dusting, sweeping and other household chores. Imagination is a wonderful thing, and pretend play should always be encouraged.
Your child may be developing the ability for self-comfort, so don't be surprised if he has a favorite blanket or thumb. Building toys are a lot more interesting now. Language skills are constantly being acquired, so read those bedtime stories! Television and other screen media should be avoided (other than the occasional video chatting.)
Your child should be experiencing table foods with the family and using some silverware. Food preferences are emerging; be patient. The bottle is no longer necessary and should be discouraged. Some children begin to show a little interest in potty training.
Safety first
- Always use gates to block stairs.
- Car seats are still necessary.
- Be on your guard for falls. Children love to be little mountain climbers and will scale anything in their paths. Be sure that furniture that could topple is mounted to walls.
- Poison-proof your home, paying special attention to cabinets at child level. Never store toxic substances in bottles or jars that can be mistaken for food products.
- In the event your child ingests a potentially harmful substance, keep the container and call the Poison Control Center at 1.800.222.1222.
- Avoid giving your child raw carrots, unpeeled apples, grapes, nuts, hotdogs, popcorn, sucking candies, and other foods that present a choking hazard. Better choices are ripe avocado, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, tomatoes, and peeled or cooked fruit cut into bite-size wedges.
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