Pediatrics: Ashburn, Loudoun, Leesburg, Lansdowne, Broadlands,
Sterling, Cascades, Potomac Falls and Potomac Station:
General
Information for a 12 month old child:
Behavior
–
Allow your child to explore, but you may need to physically
remove your child from a dangerous situation. Rather than repeating
the word "No", try distracting your child. Be firm; limit setting
is very important at this age. However, reward good behavior.
Development
-
Many kids are able to say a few words including "mama and
dada." At this age, they start to learn one new word a week. Most
children are able to walk with help. Finger feeding with 2 fingers
is common. This is a good time to start reading to your child,
naming body parts and colors.
Diet
-
It is safe to introduce cow’s milk to your child. Discourage
the use of a bottle, and continue to wean your child from the
bottle. You can either do this cold turkey or give less desirable
liquids like water in the bottle. Encourage all four food groups
in your child's diet. If your child does not like a particular
selection, do not force it on your child; just try again later.
Expect a slump in your child's appetite as their rate of growth
slows down. Avoid nuts, hot dogs, raisins, and gum because kids
can easily choke.
Safety
Choking -
This is the age everything goes into your baby's mouth. Watch
out for small objects, toys or pieces of food. Be careful of what
your older child is sharing with your baby.
Water
-
Never leave your child unattended around water (pools, tubs,
toilets, and even buckets).
Cars
-
Rear facing car seats should be used in one of the rear seats
until your baby reaches 20lb.
General
-
Children love to climb and pull up. Ensure bookshelves and
appliances are secured to walls, and will not easily tip over.
Curtain and appliance cords should be out of reach. All potentially
poisonous substances should be put in elevated cabinets. Put the
number for the poison control center in a prominent place. Place
gates near stairs, and secure windows. Tables with sharp edges
should be removed or padded until your child is more steady. Remove
sharp objects, lock up guns, and plug outlets.
Vaccinations
Prevnar
(Streptococcus pneumoniae) - Can cause fever and redness.
Prevents serious cause of pneumonia and meningitis.
Hepatitis
A -Prevents a common cause of serious hepatitis
MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella)
Rubella component can cause some joint discomfort. Measles
component can cause fever, pain, and a temporary rash.
General
More Information of the vaccinations:
