EARLY CHILDHOOD: 2 1/2 Year Visit

Getting Ready for this Visit

Write down your questions. Share your child's new accomplishments and fully participate in this visit as a partner in your child's health.

Children with special needs: Discuss how things are going for you and your child—concerns, needs, or support services. If she is in Early Intervention, bring your Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). Talk about continuing supports and services when Early Intervention ends at age 3.

At this age, your child may:

• Pretend play with dolls and toys
• Have friends
• Be upset by changes in routine
• Speak in short phrases of 3 to 4 words
• Tell you animal sounds
• Point to 6 body parts
• Jump up and down
• Get dressed and brush teeth with help

What's Important for this Visit

YOUR questions and concerns are the #1 priority! Your health care provider may also discuss:

• Family routines: Helping your child learn to do some things for herself; organizing the day with routines

• Language and communication: Listening and talking; reading and looking at pictures or objects together daily

• Promoting social development: Learning to share; making choices

• Preschool considerations: Playing with other children; toilet training help

• Safety: Keeping children safe around water, in cars, on playgrounds

The 2 1/2 Month Visit: What To Expect

Your health care provider will check your child from head to toe; measure height, weight, head size, and Body Mass Index (BMI); watch him walk, run, and move; talk with your child; ask questions about how he is developing, and ask about changes in your family. Carry out screening tests: development, others as needed.

• Immunizations: See chart for any needed at this age.