Growth and Development, Ages 12 to 24 Months

Routine Checkups

Routine checkups, sometimes called well-child visits, usually occur at 12, 15, 18, and 24 months. During the checkup, the doctor:

• Measures the child's weight and height and around his or her head (head circumference). These measurements are plotted on a growth chart to make sure your child is growing as expected.
• Physically examines your child. Usually this includes looking at your child's eyes and ears, testing your child's reflexes, looking at the genital area, listening to his or her heart, and possibly observing the way your child walks.
• Reviews your child's immunization record(What is a PDF document?) to make sure it is current. Your child generally receives one or more immunizations at well-child visits up to age 2. Bring your child's immunization record to each visit. It may help to learn some comforting techniques to help your child during immunizations. For more information, see the topic Immunizations or the childhood immunization schedule.
• Talks with your child, asking simple questions to test hearing and language abilities. For example, the doctor may ask your child to name or point to a body part.
• Watches how your child interacts with you for clues about his or her emotional and social development. At ages 18 months and 24 months, the doctor may specifically check for signs of autism.

Routine checkups are a good time to ask any questions or to discuss growth and development issues. Also, talk about your child's new skills, such as walking, using a spoon, or combining words. It may help you to go to your child's checkup with a prepared list of questions(What is a PDF document?).

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Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH	Last Updated: May 25, 2007
Medical Review:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Louis Pellegrino, MD - Developmental Pediatrics
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