Here are some suggestions from Bright Futures experts that may be of value to your family
Communication and Social Development
Talking and Feeling
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Show your child how to use words.
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Use words to describe your child's feelings.
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Describe your child's gestures with words.
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Use simple, clear phrases to talk to your child.
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When reading, use simple words to talk about the pictures.
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Try to give choices. Allow your child to choose between 2 good options, such as a banana or an apple, or 2 favorite books.
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Your child may be anxious around new people; this is normal. Be sure to comfort your child.
Sleep Routines and Issues
A Good Night's Sleep
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Make the hour before bedtime loving and calm.
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Have a simple bedtime routine that includes a book.
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Put your child to bed at the same time every night. Early is better.
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Try to tuck in your child when she is drowsy but still awake.
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Avoid giving enjoyable attention if your child wakes during the night. Use words to reassure and give a blanket or toy to hold for comfort.
Safety
Safety
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Have your child's car safety seat rear-facing until your baby is 2 years of age or until she reaches the highest weight or height allowed by the car safety seat's manufacturer.
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Follow the owner's manual to make the needed changes when switching the car safety seat to the forward-facing position.
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Never put your child's rear-facing seat in the front seat of a vehicle with a passenger airbag. The back seat is the safest place for children to ride
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Everyone should wear a seat belt in the car.
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Lock away poisons, medications, and lawn and cleaning supplies.
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Call Poison Help (1-800-222-1222) if you are worried your child has eaten something harmful.
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Place gates at the top and bottom of stairs and guards on windows on the second floor and higher. Keep furniture away from windows.
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Keep your child away from pot handles, small appliances, fireplaces, and space heaters.
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Lock away cigarettes, matches, lighters, and alcohol.
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Have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and an escape plan.
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Set your hot water heater temperature to lower than 120°F.
Temper Tantrums and Discipline
Temper Tantrums and Discipline
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Use distraction to stop tantrums when you can.
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Limit the need to say “No!” by making your home and yard safe for play.
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Praise your child for behaving well.
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Set limits and use discipline to teach and protect your child, not punish.
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Be patient with messy eating and play. Your child is learning.
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Let your child choose between 2 good things for food, toys, drinks, or books.
Healthy Teeth
Healthy Teeth
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Take your child for a first dental visit if you have not done so.
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Brush your child's teeth twice each day after breakfast and before bed with a soft toothbrush and plain water.
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Wean from the bottle; give only water in the bottle.
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Brush your own teeth and avoid sharing cups and spoons with your child or cleaning a pacifier in your mouth.
What to Expect at Your Child's 18 Month Visit
We will talk about
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Talking and reading with your child
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Playgroups
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Preparing your other children for a new baby
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Spending time with your family and partner
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Car and home safety
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Toilet training
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Setting limits and using time-outs