Two Year Visit

What to Expect At This Visit:

At this age, there are no scheduled vaccinations.

We again do the M-CHAT test for Autism

Click here for the American Academy of Pediatrics Immunization Schedule.

Additional Vaccine Information: The American Academy of Pediatrics

Development:

Note: Please know that the development of each child is unique and special.  The following information on development is general and meant for informational purposes only.  If you are concerned about the development of your child, please let your pediatrician know.

*At 2 years old, you will start to see that your child's development follows the Rules of 2s.  Your child will begin to put 2 words together into phrases.  They will also begin to understand 2 step commands (such as "Find your shoes and bring them to me").  


*At 2 years old, your child will be able to jump up and down.  He/she will also be able to stack 6 or 7 blocks on top of each other.


*Reading is a fun time for you and your child.  Encourage the love of reading.  You do not necessarily have to read the words in the book.  Point at pictures, ask your child about the story, and even let your child tell the story to you.



*Your child's speech will greatly increase, learning more and more words.  At age 2, about half of your child's speech will be understandable.  Continue to have conversations with your child to help stimulate speech development.  However, because your child is still learning words, they may be slow to respond, trying to find what they want to say. Be patient and encourage your child if it takes them a slower time to respond.



*Encourage your child to play with other kids, but they will not understand what it means to share yet.  Continue to promote sharing and your child will eventually start to share as they get older.


*There any many questions on when to start potty-training your child.  Potty-training starts anywhere from 2 to 4 years old.  The list below are signs that your child may be ready to start potty-training.

-If your child is dry for 2 hour periods

-If your child knows the difference between dry and wet & appears uncomfortable when they are wet.

-If your child can pull his/her pants up

-If your child wants to learn

-If your child can indicate when they have had a bowel movement.

Click here for AAP's information on starting Potty training.

Click Here for information from the American Academy of Pediatrics on developmental milestones typically seen at 2 years of age.

Daily Life:

Feeding:

Sleeping:

Fun & Play:

*Find ways to spend family time that does not involve television.  Children average over 6 hours of television watching a day. If your family does watch television, limit it to 1-2 hours a day.  Watch the television shows with your child and discuss what they are watching.  Many children shows show violence as an acceptable way to solve issues.  

Safety:

*Always supervise your child when they are playing outside.  Driveways, garages, and sheds can be very dangerous.  Keep lawnmowers and tools out of a child's reach.


*As your child begins to learn how to ride on bicycles and tricycles, encourage the use of helmets.  Since children look up to and mimic their parents, please wear a helmet when you ride your bicycle to be a good role model to your child.


*Post the number for Poison Controon every one of your house's phones and also at anyone's home who helps take care of your child. The Poison Helpline is 800/222-1222.  If you suspect your child has ingested poison, call the Helpline before forcing your child to vomit.  Depending on the substance swallowed, it may not be advised for your child to vomit.

Health:

*Now is a good time to teach your child about germs.  Help your child to wash their hands.  Also teach your child to cough and sneeze in their elbow to prevent the spread of germs.  

Parents & Family:

Useful Resources & Links:

TIPP (The Injury Prevention Program) safety sheet for 1-2 year olds 

TIPP: Home Playground Equipment Safety

American Academy of Pediatrics' Information on Convertible Car Seats

Read Me A Story Check-up Guide

Healthy Children


Questions: ggiven@mindspring.com