Checkups are a way to make sure your child is growing properly and help you find out if there are any health problems. After the visit, make an appointment for your child's 2½-year checkup.
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If your child is trying to climb out of the crib, move them to a toddler bed or a bed with safety rails.
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Make your home safe:
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Put gates at the top and bottom of stairs.
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Put window guards on windows above the first floor.
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Keep blinds, drapes, and cords out of your child's reach.
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Be sure that all dressers, shelves, and TVs are attached to the wall.
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Use a toy chest without a lid. Or if it has a lid, make sure it has safe hinges that hold the lid open.
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Cover all outlets and keep any night-lights out of reach.
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Keep out of reach:
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small objects such as toys, button batteries, and coins
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plastic bags
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medicines (keep in a locked cabinet, if possible)
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cleaning supplies
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anything that is hot, sharp, or breakable
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Put smoke and carbon monoxide alarms near all sleeping areas and on every level of your home.
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Have your child wear a helmet when riding a bike or trike, and while in a child carrier on an adult bike.
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Never leave your child alone if there is water nearby, including tubs, toilets, buckets, and pools. Empty water from tubs, buckets, and baby pools when done.
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Do not allow anyone to smoke around your child.
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A gun in the home increases the risk of accidents and injuries. If you do have a gun, keep it unloaded and locked up. Lock bullets separately from the gun.
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Only leave your child with responsible caregivers, and be sure to review safety information with them.
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Get all immunizations and tests that your child's health care provider recommends.
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Help your child get physical activity every day. Walking, running, and playing outdoor games are all great ways to stay active together.
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Take care of your child's teeth and gums:
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Take your child to the dentist every 6 months.
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Follow your health care provider's recommendations about using a fluoride coating (called a varnish) on your child's teeth.
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If recommended, give fluoride drops at home.
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Let your child brush their teeth (with your help) twice a day. Use a soft toothbrush with a smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice). Brush for about 2 minutes and encourage your child to spit after brushing.
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If your child is thirsty between meals or at night, give water only. Do not let your child sip juice or milk throughout the day or in the crib or bed because this can cause tooth decay.
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In the sun, protect your child's skin with a water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and re-apply every 2 hours or more often if swimming or sweating. It's best to keep your child in the shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
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Your health care provider can tell you about help that is available in the community or through a social worker. Talk to your health care provider if you're worried that:
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You don't have enough food for your child.
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You don't have a safe place to live.
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You don't have health insurance.
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You have a problem with drugs or alcohol.
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Call your child's health care provider if you are worried about your child's health, growth, or development.