Congratulations on the birth of your new baby!  Taking care of a baby is hard work - they don't come with an instruction book!  But you’ll find our New Baby Handbook helpful as you care for your newborn.  What might now seem scary will soon become more relaxed and enjoyable. Trust your instincts.  Your baby is special from the start. 

Watch a video to learn about newborn care and development from the Sparks Parent Video series. 

·        You're off to a great start taking care of your baby by reacting to their needs.  If you watch and listen carefully, you'll be able to figure out how to help your baby with just what they need.  Our New Baby Handbook  can answer many of your questions, or you can contact our office.

·        Continue feedings every 2-3 hours and keep track of wet and dirty diapers.

·        More information about your baby is at healthychildren.org, the website of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

·        Contact our office (or After Hours exchange 314-453-0044 if office is closed) if:

o   Your baby has 2 poor feedings in a row

o   Your baby has less than 3 wet diapers per day

o   Your baby has less than 1 dirty diaper per day

o   Your baby is crying non-stop or is difficult to waken

·        Your baby is 2 weeks old!  Way to go!  Keep up the good work. 

·        Though at times it can be tough, it is important to quickly respond every time your baby gets fussy.  This shows your baby that someone is there to help when they need help - they can't do it themselves!  It is not OK to let the baby "cry it out" at this age and you will not "spoil" your baby by reacting whenever they are crying.  All babies tend to cry more in the next few weeks and some babies will develop colic during this time.  We can help you if your baby is colicky.

·        Our New Baby Handbook can answer many of your questions, or you can contact our office.

·        More information about your baby is at healthychildren.org, the website of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

·        Call our office (or After Hours exchange 314-453-0044 if office is closed) if:

o   Your baby is not feeding well for 2 feeds in a row

o   Your baby gets a fever equal to 100.4 F or higher

o   Your baby does not have more than 3 wet diapers per day

o   Your baby is having a hard time breathing

o   Your baby won't stop crying

·        Feeding - Check out our Nutrition page.

·        Elimination - In the next few weeks your infant's poop pattern may change in color, consistency and frequency.  Concerning colors for baby poop are white, black, or red.  Breastfed babies may have multiple stools daily or as few as one per week. Formula-fed babies usually have fewer dirty diapers than breastfed babies.

·        Sleep - Never place your baby to sleep on his/her stomach. Remember the ABCs of safe sleep: Alone, (on baby's) Back and (in baby's) Crib.  If your baby is back up to their birth weight, you can let them sleep and do not need to wake them for feeding.

·        Healthy Habits - For your baby to be healthy, parents need to be healthy.  Please take care of yourselves!  Even the best parents can become frustrated when caring for a baby. When this occurs, place your baby in their crib, and take a short break.

·        Safety/Prevention – Great safety information on healthychildren.org.

·        Illness - Before two months of age, if your baby is very fussy, not eating well or feels very hot, check the temperature in the armpit or bottom with a digital thermometer. If the temperature is 100.4°F or higher, please call the office or exchange. Ear, forehead and pacifier thermometers are not accurate at this age.  Do not give your baby Tylenol unless instructed by your physician.  Infant noses are often stuffy or congested. This does not mean that your baby is sick if he/she is eating normally, has no fever and is breathing normally.

·        Behavior/Development – Watch a Sparks Parent Video to see how your baby is developing.

·        Your baby had a 2-month check-up today!   Can you believe it?  Taking care of your baby shows your love.

·        Many babies cry the most in their lives at this age – it’s the only way they have to communicate! Crying, and your response to it, is tightening the bond between you and your baby.  By now, you are better at figuring out what your baby needs and helping them to calm down.  If you are having trouble with this, or your baby seems extra fussy and hard to comfort, talk to your pediatrician about this.  It is still not OK to let the baby "cry it out" at this age and you will not "spoil" your baby by reacting whenever they are crying.  The amount of crying each day will start to go down in the next few weeks. 

·        More information about your baby is at healthychildren.org, the website of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

·        Call our office (or After Hours exchange 314-453-0044 if office is closed) if:

o   Your baby is not feeding well for 2 feeds in a row

o   Your baby is hard to wake up

o   Your baby does not have more than 3 wet diapers per day

o   Your baby is having a hard time breathing

o   Your baby won't stop crying

o   Your baby has a fever and a rash

·        Feeding - Check out our Nutrition page.

·        Elimination – Poop patterns may continue to change.  Breastfed babies may have multiple stools daily or as few as one per week. Formula-fed babies usually have fewer dirty diapers than breastfed babies.   Babies have at least 3 wet diapers a day (but usually a lot more).

·        Sleep - Remember the ABCs of safe sleep: Alone, (on baby's) Back and (in baby's) Crib.  Nothing else (blankets, toys, pillows, etc.) should be in the crib with the baby.  

·        Healthy Habits – For baby to be healthy, parents need to take care of themselves too.  Work as a team to get rest, exercise and good nutrition.  You can also get help from family or friends who can rock your baby (while you take a nap!) or can help with other chores.  Postpartum depression can affect moms or dads.  Contact your physician or our office if you are feeling postpartum depression symptoms such as:

o   Severe sadness

o   Frequent crying

o   Trouble sleeping

o   Loss of appetite

o   Irritability or anger

o   Intense concern and anxiety about the baby

o   Thoughts of suicide or harming your baby

·        Safety/Prevention

o   Your baby probably got shots today.  See information from the CDC or the AAP on how to care for your baby after the shots.

o   Learn more about keeping your baby safe from Healthy Children.

·        Illness - A fever is a temperature of 100.4°F degrees or higher. Fever in and of itself is not a problem. It is the body's natural response to fight off infection. The symptoms that occur with fever are also important to be concerned about (see the list above). When your baby has a fever, the most important thing is to watch them closely and call the office if worrisome symptoms develop. A child at this age should be seen if a fever lasts longer than 48 hours even without other symptoms.

·        Behavior/Development - Give your baby some tummy time each day while awake. He/she will soon roll over, reach for and grab toys, squeal and "talk to you". Babies are very social at this age. Talk to your baby as you go about your day. Limit time on your cell phone to be present with your baby.  Watch this from Sparks Parent Video series.

·        Four-month-olds are ready for the world!  They are very social and smile at everyone.  They explore the world by grabbing things and putting everything in their mouth.  They can handle tummy time longer and will begin to roll soon.  They still need lots of support and love from their parents, but you’ll be amazed at how much they can already do for themselves.  You will also find that your 4-month-old’s daily rhythms and schedules will begin to change and can be molded by you.  Respond to your baby with attention and love when they try to connect with you – this strengthens the parent-child bond.

·        More information about your baby is at healthychildren.org, the website of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

·        Call our office (or After Hours exchange 314-453-0044 if office is closed) if:

o   Your baby is not feeding well for 2 feeds in a row

o   Your baby is hard to wake up

o   Your baby does not have more than 3 wet diapers per day

o   Your baby is having a hard time breathing

o   Your baby won't stop crying

o   Your baby has a fever and a rash

·        Feeding – All 4-month-olds still need either breast milk or formula (or both) for most of their nutrition.  If your doctor suggested your baby is ready for baby food, check out “Feeding Your Baby” from our Nutrition page.

·        Elimination – Poop patterns will change when you begin feeding other foods.  The color, frequency, and consistency are going to change.  Contact us if you think there is blood in your baby’s diaper.  Babies have at least 3 wet diapers a day (but usually a lot more).

·        Sleep - Remember the ABCs of safe sleep: Alone, (on baby's) Back and (in baby's) Crib.  Nothing else (blankets, toys, pillows, etc.) should be in the crib with the baby.  Babies fed cereal at bedtime DO NOT sleep longer.  A consistent nightly bedtime routine can help babies organize their sleep.

·        Healthy Habits – Parents need care too.  Work as a team to get rest, exercise, and good nutrition.  You can also get help from family or friends with child (or parent) care.  Postpartum depression can still develop for moms or dads at this age.  Contact your physician or our office if you are feeling postpartum depression symptoms.

·        Safety/Prevention

o   Your baby probably got shots today.  A copy of your baby’s shot record was sent to the Patient Portal.  See information from the CDC or the AAP on how to care for your baby after the shots.

o   Learn more about keeping your baby safe from Healthy Children, including information about car seats, safe toys, keeping your home safe, and more.

·        Illness - A fever is a temperature of 100.4°F degrees or higher. Fever in and of itself is not a problem. It is the body's natural response to fight off infection. The symptoms that occur with fever are also important to be concerned about (see the list above). When your baby has a fever, the most important thing is to watch them closely and call the office if worrisome symptoms develop. A child at this age should be seen if a fever lasts longer than 48 hours even without other symptoms. 

·        Behavior/Development - Play, sing, talk and read with your child every day. Cuddle them often to let your child know how special they are!  Babies are very social at this age. Talk to your baby as you go about your day.  Limit time on your cell phone/tablet to be present with your baby.  Watch this from Sparks Parent Video series.

·        Whether rolling or scooting, your baby is ready to move out!  Everything is new and exciting for your six-month-old.  They are friendly and smile at everybody.   They can do more with their hands.  You’ll begin to hear some simple baby talk as your baby starts to communicate with you.  Six-month-olds have consistent daily rhythms, including 2-3 naps, and can sleep for most or all night.  Parents should provide safe spaces for baby to explore, encourage these first signs of independence, and be ready to respond with love when your baby needs you.  Love, security and trusting your instincts are the most important aspects of parenting.

·        More information about your baby is at healthychildren.org, the website of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

·        Call our office (or After Hours exchange 314-453-0044 if office is closed) if:

o   Your baby is not feeding well

o   Your baby is hard to wake up

o   Your baby does not have more than 3 wet diapers per day

o   Your baby is having a hard time breathing

o   Your baby won't stop crying

o   Your baby has a fever and a rash

·        Feeding - Six-month-old babies get most of their nutrition from either breast milk or formula (or both).  For information about feeding your baby solid food, click our Nutrition page.  If you are about to start baby food, check out “Feeding Your Baby.”  If you have already been feeding your baby and are ready for what’s next, read “Feeding Your Baby – Next Steps.”  Your baby can drink 1 to 2 ounces of water at this age.

·        Elimination – Baby poop at this age will depend on the foods your baby eats – some will loosen the poop, and some will make it harder.  Most babies still poop every day or every other day, but other patterns can be normal.  You should still see at least 3 wet diapers a day.

·        Sleep - By now most children should be able to sleep through the night.  Provide a consistent bedtime routine, placing your baby in the crib when baby is drowsy but not asleep.  Also, try not to let your baby fall asleep for the night while eating.  These tips will help your baby learn that he/she can go to sleep on their own. Should the baby awaken in the night, they will then be more likely to be able to go back to sleep without your help. This approach will help both you and your baby get a good night's sleep.  Do not leave a bottle in the crib for your baby – this can lead to tooth decay and ear infections.

·        Healthy Habits

o   Brushing your baby's teeth with a tiny smear (the size of a dry piece of rice) of fluoride toothpaste can be started as soon as teeth erupt.  If your water does not contain fluoride, your child may need supplementation.

o   Read to your baby every day.

o   Shoes are needed only to protect the feet from sharp objects and the cold. They should be flexible, inexpensive, and fit well in both length and width.

·        Safety/Prevention – Since your baby will be on the move soon, it is time to make your home as safe as possible him/her.  Take the time to babyproof your house now following this advice from healthychildren.org. 

o   Your baby probably got shots today.  A copy of your baby’s shot record was sent to the Patient Portal.  See information from the CDC or the AAP on how to care for your baby after the shots.

o   Learn more about keeping your baby safe from healthychildren.org, including information about car seats, safe toys, keeping your home safe, and more.

·        Illness - A fever is a temperature of 100.4°F degrees or higher. Fever in and of itself is not a problem. It is the body's natural response to fight off infection. The symptoms that occur with fever are also important to be concerned about (see the list above). When your baby has a fever, the most important thing is to watch them closely and call the office if worrisome symptoms develop. A child at this age should be seen if a fever lasts longer than 48 hours even without other symptoms. 

·        Behavior/Development – 6-month-olds thrive on your attention.  Take time to play with, read to, talk to, snuggle with, and love your baby every day.  Be fully present with your baby during these times, limiting electronics use and other distractions during this important time for development.  Give your baby a safe place to play on the floor so they can roll, scoot and begin to figure out how to crawl.  Reading to and talking to your baby helps their language develop.  You are more important to your baby than any toy.  Watch the 6-month old video from Sparks Parent Video series.

·        Your baby is on the go!  All their developmental tracks are moving forward, but many parents notice that one category of development may seem to leap ahead at this age – your baby may be putting more time and effort into what they are interested in or what are good at.  Nine-month-olds crawl, pull themselves up to stand, and even begin walking their first few steps.  They can do more with their hands and will often take over feeding themselves.  Baby talk becomes more advanced, and you may hear your baby’s first word soon.  They are still friendly and smile often, recognizing friends and family but some 9-month-olds will develop “stranger anxiety.”   Daily rhythms, with time for naps, playtime and meals/snacks give a sturdy framework for your baby to develop.  With all this independence, your 9-month-old baby still needs you for love and attention for comfort and security.  Remember that you are your child's first and most important teacher. This stage will pass quickly. Make the most of it and enjoy!

·        More information about your baby is at healthychildren.org, the website of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

·        Call our office (or After Hours exchange 314-453-0044 if office is closed) if:

o   Your baby is not feeding well

o   Your baby is hard to wake up

o   Your baby does not have more than 3 wet diapers per day

o   Your baby is having a hard time breathing

o   Your baby won't stop crying

o   Your baby has a fever and a rash

·        Feeding - Breastfeeding should be continued until your child weans her/himself or mom chooses to stop. Formula should be continued until one year, at which time you may switch to whole milk.  Provide regular meals and snack times; babies this age eat 3 meals and 2-3 healthy snacks daily.  Respect your child's ability to know when he or she is hungry and when he or she is not hungry.  Encourage use of a cup.  Encourage healthy eating habits and remember that our children learn by watching us.

o   Do not give honey to children under one year of age as there is a small risk of botulism.

o   Avoid nuts, hard candies, popcorn, hard raw fruits and vegetables which can cause choking until after age 4.

o   Juice and “fruit drinks” are not recommended - they are not healthy and may cause loose stools and poor appetite.

·        Elimination - Baby poop at this age will depend on the foods your baby eats.  You should still see at least 3 wet diapers a day.

·        Sleep – Try to keep a regular bedtime routine.  By 9 months a child should be able to go to sleep on their own at the end of the bedtime routine.  Because children at this age are pulling up in the crib, make sure that the mattress is down at the lowest level to prevent falls from the crib.  Most infants sleep through the night by this age and are taking at least 1-2 naps during the day but recognize that each child has different sleep requirements.

·        Healthy Habits

o   Brushing your baby's teeth with a tiny smear (the size of a dry piece of rice) of fluoride toothpaste can be started as soon as teeth erupt.  If your water does not contain fluoride, your child may need supplementation.

o   Read to your baby every day.

o   Shoes are needed only to protect the feet from sharp objects and the cold. They should be flexible, inexpensive, and fit well in both length and width.

o   Create an "electronic media-free" environment in children's rooms.  Avoid use of media as an electronic babysitter.  Avoid watching TV during family meals and keep meals a "device free" time.  Having the television on in the background can be disruptive to children's play even if it seems they are not paying attention to it.  Parents should consider limiting their own cell phone time when with their children because it can take attention away from parenting.

o   One exception to limiting electronics are video-chatting with friends and family.  Since this is an interactive and connecting activity, it is good for your baby to see and be seen by family and friends.

·        Safety/Prevention – Now that your baby is on the move, you will need to check and recheck your home for safety.  Babies get faster, stronger, and don’t always take “No” for an answer, so try to stay one step ahead of your baby.  Fine tune babyproofing your house with this advice from healthychildren.org. 

o   Your baby probably got shots today.  A copy of your baby’s shot record was sent to the Patient Portal.  See information from the CDC or the AAP on how to care for your baby after the shots.

o   Learn more about keeping your baby safe away from home from healthychildren.org, including information about car seats, safe toys, sun safety, bug sprays, and more.

·        Illness - A fever is a temperature of 100.4°F degrees or higher. Fever in and of itself is not a problem. It is the body's natural response to fight off infection. The symptoms that occur with fever are also important to be concerned about (see the list above). When your baby has a fever, the most important thing is to watch them closely and call the office if worrisome symptoms develop. A child at this age should be seen if a fever lasts longer than 48 hours even without other symptoms. 

·        Behavior/Development - Over the next few months your baby will become more mobile and independent. Encourage this by providing a safe environment in which to explore and by introducing your child to new textures, scents, and sounds.  Encourage your baby to use their emerging language by “narrating” your life, pointing out and naming objects, and talking and singing together.  This is a good time to begin establishing consistent rules and limits. Babies should be noticed more for their appropriate behavior than for their undesirable behavior. Praise your child when he or she does something well.  If your baby's behavior is inappropriate, try redirecting his or her attention.  Check out the 9-month old video from Sparks Parent Video series.

·        What a year!  Take time to celebrate your child’s growth and change and your role in loving and guiding your child this far.  A child is no longer a “baby” at one year – we call them a toddler.  Being a toddler is exciting and fun as your child continues to grow into their own body and personality.  They are watching, absorbing and learning all the time.  Daily rhythms, with time for naps, playtime and meals/snacks give a sturdy framework for your toddler to develop.   As part of their growing independence, some toddlers can be overwhelmed by the amount of change they experience or by not getting their own way all the time, which may lead to a “melt down” or tantrum.  This behavior is normal.  Acknowledge the emotion your child is feeling but remain calm as your child processes these feelings.  “Giving in” to stop the tantrums can make them happen more often.   Though at times they seem to push away as they explore their independence, your toddler still needs you for love and attention and for comfort and security.  Remember that you are your child's first and most important teacher. This stage will pass quickly.  Enjoy your toddler!

·        More information about your baby is at healthychildren.org, the website of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

·        Call our office (or After Hours exchange 314-453-0044 if office is closed) if:

o   Your child is not feeding well

o   Your child is hard to wake up

o   Your child has less than 2 wet diapers per day

o   Your child is having a hard time breathing

o   Your child won't stop crying

o   Your child has a fever and a rash

·        Feeding – Check out our feeding guide for 12-month-olds called “The Great Transition” as you go from feeding a baby [mostly liquid, breast milk or formula] to feeding a toddler [mostly solid food, drinking whole cow’s milk].   For toddlers, studies show that a new food must be introduced 15 times before a child at this age will eat it regularly. The same studies show that most parents give up on serving a food after 3-4 attempts. Give new foods along with favorite foods. Remember portion size differs for toddlers.  Normal eating behavior at this age includes smashing food, pushing it around the tray, dropping it on the floor, and putting it in the mouth and then spitting it out. These behaviors, while frustrating for parents, are all normal.

·        Elimination - Baby poop at this age will depend on the foods your baby eats.  You should still see at least 2 wet diapers a day.

·        Sleep - Maintain a regular bedtime routine. A 12-month-old should be able to put herself/himself to sleep.  A transition object may help with this (for example, a blankie, doll or stuffed animal).  It is ok to have other items (blanket, pillow, etc.) in the crib now.  Most toddlers sleep through the night by this stage and are taking at least 1-2 naps during the day though each child has different sleep requirements.

·        Healthy Habits

o   Brush your child's teeth with a tiny smear (the size of a dry piece of rice) of fluoride toothpaste once or twice a day.  If your water does not contain fluoride, your child may need supplementation.

o   Read to your toddler every day.

o   Cuddle! Let your child know that he or she is special.

o   Shoes are needed only to protect the feet from sharp objects and the cold. They should be flexible, inexpensive, and fit well in both length and width.

o   Create an "electronic media-free" environment in children's rooms.  Avoid use of phones, tablets or TVs as an electronic babysitter.  Avoid watching TV during family meals and keep meals a "device free" time.  Having the television on in the background can be disruptive to children's play even if it seems they are not paying attention to it.  Parents should consider limiting their own cell phone time when with their children because it can take attention away from parenting.

o   One exception to limiting electronics is video-chatting with friends and family.  Since this is an interactive and connecting activity, it is good for your baby to see and be seen by family and friends.

·        Safety/Prevention – Now that your toddler is on the move, you will need to check and recheck your home for safety.  Toddlers are faster, stronger, and don’t always take “No” for an answer, so try to stay one step ahead of your explorer.  Fine tune childproofing your house with this advice from healthychildren.org. 

o   Your child probably got shots today.  A copy of your child’s shot record was sent to the Patient Portal.  See information from the CDC or the AAP on how to care for your child after the shots.

o   Learn more about keeping your child safe away from home from healthychildren.org, including information about safe toys, sun safety, bug sprays, and more.

o   5-point harness car seat should be in the back seat, rear-facing until your child reaches the weight or height limit of the seat. Great websites for up-to-date car seat info: safekids.org and nhtsa.gov

·        Illness - A fever is a temperature of 100.4°F degrees or higher. Fever in and of itself is not a problem. It is the body's natural response to fight off infection. The symptoms that occur with fever are also important to be concerned about (see the list above). When your child has a fever, the most important thing is to watch them closely and call the office if worrisome symptoms develop. A child at this age should be seen if a fever lasts longer than 48 hours even without other symptoms. 

·        Behavior/Development - Your toddler continues to be more mobile and independent.  Provide a safe environment in which to explore and introduce your child to new tastes, sights and sounds.  Encourage your toddler to use their language by “narrating” your life, pointing out and naming objects, and talking and singing together.  This is a good time to begin establishing consistent rules and limits. Toddlers should be noticed more for their appropriate behavior than for their undesirable behavior. Praise your child when he or she does something well.  If your child's behavior is inappropriate, try redirecting his or her attention.  Other effective disciplinary actions, when necessary, include a stern restatement of the forbidden act ("no biting!"), or a 1-minute period of non-interaction ("time-out").  Check out the 12-month-old video from Sparks Parent Video series.

• Examine Your Child from Head to Toe
• Answer Parent Questions about Health
• Track Your Child's Growth
• Address Development and Behavior
• Answer Parent Questions about Health
• Track Your Child's Growth
• Address Development and Behavior
• Manage Ongoing Diseases
• Discuss Nutrition, Healthy Habits, Safety and more
• Provide Guidance for Upcoming Health and Development Milestones
• Give Scheduled Immunizations
• Complete Forms for Daycare (if needed)
• Links/Forms: ASQ, Edinburgh, Tylenol/Advil/Motrin Dosing

• Examine Your Child from Head to Toe
• Answer Parent Questions about Health
• Track Your Child's Growth
• Address Development and Behavior
• Check for Autism
• Manage Ongoing Diseases
• Discuss Nutrition, Healthy Habits, Safety and more
• Provide Guidance for Upcoming Health and Development Milestones
• Give Scheduled Immunizations
• Complete Forms for Daycare (if needed)
• Links/Forms: ASQ, Edinburgh, Tylenol/Advil/Motrin Dosing

• Examine Your Child from Head to Toe
• Answer Parent Questions about Health
• Track Your Child's Growth
• Address Development and Behavior
• Check for Autism
• Perform Periodic Vision Screening
• Screen for Lead poisoning
• Manage Ongoing Diseases
• Discuss Nutrition, Healthy Habits, Safety and more
• Provide Guidance for Upcoming Health and Development Milestones
• Give Scheduled Immunizations
• Complete Forms for Daycare or Preschool
• Links/Forms: ASQ, Edinburgh, Tylenol/Advil/Motrin Dosing

• Examine Your Child from Head to Toe
• Answer Parent Questions about Health
• Track Your Child's Growth
• Address Development and Behavior
• Manage Ongoing Diseases
• Discuss Nutrition, Healthy Habits, Safety and more
• Provide Guidance for Upcoming Health and Development Milestones
• Give Scheduled Immunizations
• Complete Forms for Daycare or Preschool
• Links/Forms: ASQ, Edinburgh, Tylenol/Advil/Motrin Dosing

•        During the preschool years, children learn to use the independence they have been developing during the toddler years.  They will have more control over their body and what they choose to do every day.  However, most preschoolers continue to grow and develop best in a regular framework of activity (school, play) and rest.  As they grow, they will ask lots of questions as they try to figure out how the world works.  Preschoolers can still have tantrums, but they have more skill at calming themselves and tantrum behavior should be decreasing as they mature.  Play with your child!  This is how they learn, grow and explore.  Plus, it’s fun!   

• More information about your child at this stage is at healthychildren.org, the website of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

• Call our office (or After Hours exchange 314-453-0044 if office is closed) if:

  • Your child is not eating or drinking very well

  • Your child is hard to wake up

  • Your child has not urinated in 12 hours

  • Your child is having a hard time breathing

  • Your child won't stop crying

  • Your child has a fever and a rash

• Food/Drink – Our children learn by watching us, so be a model of good eating habits!  Find more recommendations about healthy eating habits on our Nutrition page. Eat meals as a family. Remember portion size is smaller for preschoolers.

• Bathroom – Most preschoolers use the toilet independently.  Talk to us if your child is not yet toilet trained.  Bedwetting may still occur for some children until they are 6 years old.  Many preschoolers are still very curious about their own body, including their genitals.  Masturbation is normal in this age group – try not to be alarmed or draw negative attention to this common behavior.  Learn more about this topic.

• Sleep - Maintain a regular sleep schedule for your preschooler.  This should include consistent, relaxing activities (without a screen!) before bed. Preschoolers need 10-13 hours of sleep per day.  Some still take a daily nap, while others have dropped their nap.

• Healthy Habits

  • Brush your child's teeth with a tiny smear (the size of a dry piece of rice) of fluoride toothpaste twice a day. Regular visits to the dentist should start by this age.

  • Read to your child every day.  Encourage telling stories, naming opposites, comparisons.  Sing songs and say nursery rhymes with your child.

  • Get moving by playing catch, running, jumping, and riding a tricycle (with helmet).

  • Painting, drawing, coloring, and puzzles are good activities for this age for creativity and problem solving.

  • Let your child know that he or she is special.

  • Create a “Family Media Plan” with help from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Keep an electronic free zone in children's bedrooms.  Keep meals a "device-free" time for everyone.

• Prevention - Your child may have gotten shots today.  A copy of your child’s shot record was sent to the Patient Portal.  Arm soreness, injection site redness, and mild fever are common side effects.

• Safety – Accidents and injuries are a big threat to the life and health of your child.  Most serious injuries can be prevented with simple safety steps.

  • Riding in a car is the most dangerous thing your child does.  At this age, the type of car restraint depends on your child's size. They should ride in a booster seat until the lap (snug across the upper thighs) & shoulder (across the shoulder) seatbelts fit correctly. Children under 13 are safest in the back seat.  Remember that children this age are more likely to wear a seatbelt if you wear yours.  Great websites for up-to-date car seat info: safekids.org and nhtsa.gov.

  • Begin to teach your child personal safety like looking both ways before crossing the street.  Children cannot be counted on for street and personal safety until closer to the age of five. All outdoor play must be supervised at this age.

  • Wear a bike helmet whenever your child is riding a tricycle, bike or scooter.

  • Wear sunscreen! (SPF of 15 or above)

  • Teach your child to swim.  Never let your child swim without adult supervision.

  • Install and maintain smoke detectors.  Teach your children not to play with matches, lighters or fire.

  • A home without a gun is always safest for young children.  If this is not an option, make certain that the gun is unloaded, securely locked and stored separately from the ammunition.

  • Learn more about keeping your child safe from healthychildren.org, including information about safe toys, sun safety, bug sprays, and more.

• Illness – A fever is a temperature of 100.4°F degrees or higher. Fever in and of itself is not a problem. It is the body's natural response to fight off infection. The symptoms that occur with fever are also important to be concerned about (see the list above). When your child has a fever, the most important thing is to watch them closely and call the office if worrisome symptoms develop. A child at this age should be seen if a fever lasts longer than 48 hours even without other symptoms.

• Behavior/Development – Parents need to set limits for their children; yet most children at this age wish to feel "in charge". When possible, give your child the opportunity to make decisions by offering two choices.  Praise positive behaviors, for example learning a new skill, being helpful or cooperative.  "Catch the child being good", instead of noticing and giving attention to the negative behaviors. Check out the video for your child’s age from Sparks Parent Video series.

• Going to school is an important milestone in your child’s life.  It allows them to use all the skills of independence they have learned so far to gain new relationships, new knowledge, and new healthy habits.  They will meet other adults (teachers, coaches) who will help them.  They will make new friends and will learn how to interact with different people.  Your child will blossom during this time as they grow into their own personality.  Your child will also grow through challenges at school, navigating friendships, and trying new things.  Handling and overcoming challenges help your child develop resilience, an important trait for ongoing health.  All of these new opportunities can be exciting for kids and parents.   However, parents may feel a little sad at times as they see their child “leave the nest” or worried as their child faces new challenges that may be harder for your child to overcome.  These mixed feelings are normal, and part of parenting as you continue to be the most important influence in your child’s life during this stage.  Continue to play with your child!  This is how they learn, grow and explore.  Plus, it’s fun!
• More information about your school-aged child is at healthychildren.org, the website of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
• Call our office (or After Hours exchange 314-453-0044 if office is closed) if:
  • Your child is sick
  • Your child is hurt
  • You are concerned about your child’s mental health
  • You are concerned about your child’s school performance
• Food/Drink – Continue to be a role model of good eating habits!  This will help your child make healthy decisions with food.  Eat meals as a family.  Portion size is smaller for school-aged children.  More food choices are made away from the home at this age, including school and fast-food restaurants where choices are tilted towards less healthy food and large portion sizes Snacking after school is often unsupervised.  It is harder to eat “junk food” if it is not in the house in the first place.  Find more recommendations about healthy eating habits on our Nutrition page.
• Bathroom – School-agers use the toilet independently and consistently.  Talk to us if your child has problems such as accidents or constipation.  Bedwetting may still occur for some children until they are 6 years old – talk to us if your child is wetting the bed after they are 6 years old.
• Sleep - Maintain a regular sleep schedule for your child.  This should include consistent, relaxing activities (without a screen!) before bed.  School-aged kids need 9-12 hours of sleep per day.  Maintaining healthy sleep gets more challenging as your child gets older, so build these habits now!
• Healthy Habits
  • Encourage routine physical activity. Play ball, ride a bike, take a walk. Keep moving to keep your heart healthy. Be a role model to your child for this - active parents produce active children.
  • Read! Read together, read out loud. Exercise your brain at least 30 minutes a day!
  • Give your child simple chores to complete. This will help them begin to develop a sense of responsibility and accomplishment.
  • See a dentist twice yearly. Brush teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice daily and floss daily.
  • Let your child know that he or she is loved every day.
  • Create a “Family Media Plan” with help from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Keep an electronic free zone in children's bedrooms.  Keep meals a "device-free" time for everyone.
  • The decision to purchase a cell phone for your child at this age is challenging.  Parents should balance the Need for a phone (communication and safety) versus the Want (“all the other kids have one”).   Very few children before middle school or later have the maturity to deal with this significant responsibility.
  • Talk openly now about the risks of vaping, cigarettes, alcohol, and drug use and set good examples.
• Prevention - Your child may have gotten shots today.  A copy of your child’s shot record was sent to the Patient Portal.  Arm soreness, injection site redness, and mild fever are common side effects.
• Safety – Accidents and injuries are a big threat to the life and health of your child.  Check out this safety information from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
  • Riding in a car is the most dangerous thing your child does.  At this age, the type of car restraint depends on your child's size. They should ride in a booster seat until the lap (snug across the upper thighs) & shoulder (across the shoulder) seatbelts fit correctly. Children under 13 are safest in the back seat.  Remember that children this age are more likely to wear a seatbelt if you wear yours.  Great websites for up-to-date car seat info: safekids.org and nhtsa.gov.
  • Always wear a helmet when you bike, roller blade or skateboard. Wear correct safety gear when playing sports just like the pros do.
  • Wear sunscreen (SPF of 15 or above).
  • Never swim alone. Learn how to swim if you don't already know. Never swim without someone designated to watch you.
  • A home without a gun is always safest for young children. If this is not an option, make certain that the gun is unloaded, securely locked and stored separately from the ammunition.
  • Recognize the risk of leaving your child home alone. Most children are not developmentally prepared for this responsibility at this age. This is a good age to begin teaching your child telephone safety.  They should also learn your phone numbers.
• Illness – Children at this age can tell you how they are feeling and what their symptoms are.  Most illnesses will tend to be short-term and not usually too severe.  Contact us If you are worried about your child’s symptoms, their illness is getting worse, or seems to last longer than you expect.
• Behavior/Development – Establish rules and guidelines and enforce logical consequences if they are not followed. Help your child be responsible for his or her actions and the consequences that follow.  Encourage age-appropriate decision making.  Comfortably answer questions about sex. It is better for our children to learn about this from you rather than the media or their peers. Prepare your child for the changes which will occur during puberty.

• Everything is changing as your child moves into adolescence - body, brain, relationships, emotions, responsibilities.  The goal for you and your child during this transition is to prepare your child for adulthood.  Though our pre-teens and teens often want to get there quickly – adolescence takes time and has different stages for parents to consider.  Adolescence can be challenging as it is marked by change and resistance to change.  Your role as a parent remains crucial as your child navigates these steps to finally become independent.
• More information about your adolescent is at healthychildren.org, the website of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
• Call our office (or After Hours exchange 314-453-0044 if office is closed) if:
  • Your child is sick
  • Your child is hurt
  • You are concerned about your child’s mental health
  • You are concerned about your child’s school performance
• Food/Drink – Check out our Nutrition page with your preteen/teen to learn more about healthy eating habits.  Continue to be a role model of good eating habits!  This will help your child make healthy decisions with food.  Eat meals as a family.
• Bathroom – Sometimes preteens and teens are so independent in the bathroom, you may not be aware that they are having problems.  Teach your child about healthy bodily functions  - encourage them to look in the toilet after they go to check on the healthiness of their waste.
• Sleep - Maintain a regular sleep schedule for your child and help your adolescent understand how important sleep is for overall health.  Preteens need 9-12 hours of sleep per day while teens should get 8-10 hours a day.  Avoid staying up really late and sleeping in late on weekends - this makes your body extra tired.  Maintaining healthy sleep gets more challenging as your child gets older, so build these habits now!
• Healthy Habits
  • Parents:  Let your child know that he or she is loved every day.  Listen....... really listen to your teen.
  • Preteen/Teen:  Let your parents know you love them every day.  If you want your parents to trust you, be responsible. Mutual respect is the key to a good relationship.
  • Exercise vigorously for 60 minutes 5-7 times per week. Make sure you are stretching adequately before athletic activities and wear appropriate safety gear.
  • Update your “Family Media Plan” with help from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Keep an electronic free zone in children's bedrooms.  Keep meals a "device-free" time.  If you think social media or video gaming is interfering with your life, talk to your doctor.
  • The decision to purchase a cell phone for your child at this age is challenging.  Parents should balance the Need for a phone (communication and safety) versus the Want (“all the other kids have one”).   Very few children before middle school or later have the maturity to deal with this significant responsibility.
  • Talk openly now about the risks of vaping, cigarettes, alcohol, and drug use and set good examples.
  • See a dentist twice yearly. Brush teeth twice daily using fluoride toothpaste and floss daily.
• Prevention - Your child may have gotten shots today.  A copy of your child’s shot record was sent to the Patient Portal.  Arm soreness, injection site redness, and mild fever are common side effects.
• Safety – Accidents and injuries are a big threat to the life and health of your child.  Check out this safety information from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
  • Riding in a car is the most dangerous thing your child does.  Your child should always wear a seatbelt, no matter how far you are going in the car.  Children under 13 are safest in the back seat.  Remember that children this age are more likely to wear a seatbelt if you wear yours.  Great websites for up-to-date car safety info: safekids.org and nhtsa.gov.
  • Always wear a helmet when you bike, roller blade or skateboard.
  • Wear sunscreen (SPF of 15 or above).
  • Never swim alone. Learn how to swim if you don't already know. Never swim without someone designated to watch you.
  • A home without a gun is always safest for young children. If this is not an option, make certain that the gun is unloaded, securely locked and stored separately from the ammunition.
  • Determine when your child is responsible enough to be home alone.
• Illness – Most illnesses will tend to be short-term and not usually too severe.  Contact us If you are worried about your child’s symptoms, their illness is getting worse or seems to last longer than you expect.  If your child is anxious, angry or depressed, contact us.  If your child is suicidal call or text 988.
• Behavior/Development – Establish rules and guidelines and enforce logical consequences if they are not followed.  Help your preteen/teen be responsible for his or her actions and the consequences that follow.  Encourage age-appropriate decision making.  Comfortably answer questions about sex. It is better for your children to learn about this from you rather than the media or their peers. Prepare your child for the changes which will occur during puberty.

• At this time in your life, you are becoming more responsible for your own health, so this information is for you.  While you are maturing, your parents can still help you – continue to communicate with them regularly.  Handling small responsibilities will help you handle bigger responsibilities.  It will also show your parents you can be trusted.  Your doctor is also here to help you.  Talk to us with your questions or concerns.

• Parents:  We encourage parents to maintain open communication with their teenager.  More information about your adolescent is at healthychildren.org, the website of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

• Call our office (or After Hours exchange 314-453-0044 if office is closed) if:
  • You are sick
  • You are hurt
  • You are worried, depressed, or angry all the time
  • You are concerned about your school performance

• Food/Drink–  Check out our Nutrition page with your parents to learn more about healthy eating.  Find time to share meals with your family each week.

• Bathroom – Be aware of your body’s patterns for using the bathroom.  Look in the toilet after you go to know what your body is doing.  If something changes (pain, blood, going more or less often, etc.) with urine or stool, talk with your parents or your doctor.  Practice regular self-examination of breasts or testicles monthly and notify your doctor of any concerns.

• Sleep - Maintain a regular sleep schedule.  Teens should get 8-10 hours a day.  Avoid staying up really late and sleeping in late on weekends – this makes your body extra tired.

• Healthy Habits
  • Let your parents know you love them every day.  If you want your parents to trust you, be responsible. Mutual respect is the key to a good relationship.
  • Try out different types of sports, jobs, hobbies, and clubs. Your experience with a variety of activities and people energizes you and makes you a more interesting person.
  • Exercise vigorously for 60 minutes 5-7 times per week. Make sure you are stretching adequately before exercise and wear appropriate safety gear.
  • Spend time with your family doing something you all enjoy.
  • Technology has led to new ways you may feel anxious about being accepted by your peers. Social media has created unique opportunities to be "liked" when posting personal information or photos and to feel left out (FOMO- fear of missing out) when viewing events where you were not included.  It is important to be aware of how this affects you and talk to your parents or doctor if it is making you stressed, sad, or worried.
  • Make healthy choices against vaping, smoking, or chewing tobacco.  Do not use drugs or alcohol, including marijuana.
  • See a dentist twice yearly. Brush teeth twice daily using fluoride toothpaste and floss daily.

• Prevention - You may have gotten shots today.  A copy of your shot record was sent to the Patient Portal.  Arm soreness, redness, and low fever are common side effects.

• Safety – Accidents and injuries are a big threat to your life and health.  Check out this safety information from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
  • Riding in a car is the most dangerous thing you do.  Wear your seat belt.  Remind everyone in the car to wear their seat belt.  NEVER ride with someone who has been drinking.  Accidents increase when teenagers drive with more than one passenger in their car, and after 1 AM.
  • NEVER Text and Drive.
  • Always wear a helmet when you bike, roller blade or skateboard.
  • Wear sunscreen (SPF of 15 or above).  Tanning beds are not safe – they cause early wrinkles and skin cancer.
  • Learn how to swim if you don't already know. Never swim without someone designated to watch you.
  • A home without a gun is always the safest. If this is not an option, make certain that the gun is unloaded, securely locked and stored separately from the ammunition.  If your family owns a gun, ask your parents about taking a gun safety class.

• Illness – Most illnesses will usually be short-term and not too severe.  Contact us If you are worried about your symptoms, your illness is getting worse or seems to last longer than you expect.  If you are anxious, angry or depressed, contact us.  If your child is suicidal call or text 988.

• Behavior/Development – Make rules for yourself ahead of time about lifestyle issues (alcohol, sex, drugs, smoking) and stick to them. Talk with your parents about these.  Having sexual feelings is normal. Learn ways to say NO to sex. Abstinence is the only certain way of not becoming pregnant or contracting sexually transmitted diseases.  If you need information about sex, sexually transmitted diseases, or contraception, talk to your parents or a trusted adult including your doctor.