What to Expect the Toddler Years (29 page)

An assessment of growth (height, weight, head circumference) since the last visit. These findings may be plotted on growth charts (see pages 862 to 865) and your child’s weight for height evaluated and compared to previous measurements.

An informal assessment, based on observation and interview, of physical and intellectual development, and of hearing and vision.

Depending on need, the following may be included:

A finger-stick blood test (hematocrit or hemoglobin), if the child is at risk of anemia. The test may be done once routinely between twelve months and four years.

A blood draw to screen for lead, depending on where you live, or if exposure is suspected.

A Mantoux tuberculin test for children at high risk, unless it was performed at twelve months.

Immunizations

MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine, unless given earlier.

Hib (haemophilus influenza b) unless given earlier.

HepB (hepatitis b), if series not completed previously.

DTaP (diptheria, tetanus, pertussis); this will be given now or at the eighteen-month visit.

IPV (inactivated polio vaccine), given now or at eighteen months

Varicella (chicken pox), unless given earlier

PCV (pneumococcal conjugate), unless given earlier

Pediarix (this three-in-one combination may be given instead of HepB, IPV, and DTaP)

Other need-to-know advice.
The doctor may also discuss such topics as discipline; injury prevention; self-comforting behaviors (such as thumb-sucking); television; potty training; sleep issues; eating habits; weaning; vitamins; and day care or child care.