Maternal & Child Health Nurse (MCHN) visit - two years

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Article Summary

This visit should go more smoothly because your two-year-old will be more interested.

This visit will probably go more smoothly than the 18-month one because your 2-year-old will be more interested in the whole business. It's easier and more enjoyable for him to talk to the doctor or nurse who examines him. He's also probably a little less worried about being touched by strangers, although he'll want to be on your lap or have you next to him every step of the way. Early appointments are better than afternoon ones. Avoid naptime.

At this visit, your GP will probably:

 Weigh and measure your baby. Click here to see our growth chart.

 Provide insights into your child's physical and emotional development.

 Answer any questions you may have about surviving the "terrible twos".

 Discuss toilet training, nursery school and childcare.

Your GP will want to know:

 Has your baby seen another GP since the last visit? If so, why? What was the outcome of that visit, and was any medication or treatment prescribed?
 How many words does your baby know? Can he use two-word phrases?
 Does he imitate you? Does he play with trucks or dolls?
 Can he kick a ball? Can he walk up and down the stairs using both feet or one foot at a time?
 Is he shy around strangers, at least at first?
 Can he follow a story and name pictures in a book?
 Can he follow a two-step command?
 Is there a family history of heart attacks before the age of 50? If so, there may be some testing of your child's fat balance that needs to be done at this time.
 If your child is extremely fearful and/or has a difficult time with other children.

Talk It Over

 Although most 2-year-olds are not toilet trained (no matter what your mother or mother-in-law says), you may have started the training process. Talk over any difficulties you're having or any pressures you may be feeling. Remember that you shouldn't rush toilet training. Forcing the matter usually ends up frustrating everyone, and doesn't get the nappies off any sooner.

 Dental care is a big concern at this age. Ask for a referral to someone who works well with children. Ask about fluoride.

 If you're having difficulty limiting television or find yourself using it as a babysitter, ask for some help. Habits are shaped now.

 If your child is extremely fearful and/or has a difficult time with other children. Ask for advice.

 Major changes can stress you and affect your toddler. If you're moving, having a new baby, going back to work or dealing with a loss or serious illness, your child may be affected. Talk it over with your GP, who can tell you how such things could affect your child's development and what to do. Your doctor may also be able to suggest resources for you and your family to help with the situation.

Bringing up children can bring great joy, but as every parent knows, it is also very challenging. If you're feeling stressed out, talk it over with your child's GP. This is extremely important if you:

 Feel out of control.
 Hit your baby when you feel out of control.
 Leave a mark or bruise on your child.

There are many programmes that can help you cope with the challenges you face with a growing child. Your GP can help you find one. Parenting classes, nursery groups, play groups and mothers' mornings out are all examples of these community resources.

Speak Up!

Your busy toddler will probably bruise his shins and bump his head. But you should ask your child about bruises anywhere on his body that can't be reasonably explained. If you have any concerns about your child's injuries, tell your doctor immediately. He or she can look at the bumps and bruises and tell you whether they appear to be from normal activities. Do this before you let any childminder or babysitter take care of your baby again.

Also, let your GP know if your child:

 Isn't putting together two-word sentences or phrases.
 Doesn't point at pictures in books and name at least some of the pictured objects.
 Doesn't run or is very unsteady on his feet.
 Doesn't understand two-step commands such as "Get your shoes and bring them to me".
 Doesn't throw or kick a ball.
 Can't stack more than two blocks.
 Doesn't know how to scribble on paper with large crayons. Most children can draw a rough circle at this age.
 Still has trouble swallowing solid food.
 Often can't be understood or get his message across to strangers.
 Is very fearful generally, or in particular situations or with particular people.
 Is doing anything that you think is odd or unusual.

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Development

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Health

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