Visit the Doctor
Bringing your children to the doctor is just as important when they’re healthy as when they’re ill. Regular checkups, or well visits, help your doctor monitor your child’s development and overall health. A baby’s first checkup usually takes place a few weeks after birth and then every two months until he or she is 6 months old. A typical schedule then calls for him or her to go to the doctor at 9 months, 1 year, 15 months, 18 months and 2 years. At the end of each visit, schedule the upcoming appointment.

Monitor ADHD
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects 4.5 million children between ages 5 and 17. ADHD is treatable and requires a long-term approach. A key component to successful treatment is remembering to schedule follow-up visits with your child’s doctor. These appointments allow the doctor to monitor your child’s progress as well as any negative effects of the medication. It also gives you and your child a chance to ask specific questions or voice any concerns.

Seat Them Safely
Safety seats can greatly increase your child’s safety in the car. Follow these guidelines for infant and booster car seats from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

• Infants. Infants should ride in rear-facing convertible seats for a minimum of one year (and) until they weigh 20 pounds.
• Toddlers and preschoolers. Once children outgrow rear-facing seats, use a forward-facing seat with a full harness.
• School-aged children. Booster seats are the next size up for children and should be used until an adult seat belt fits correctly (usually between ages 8 and 12).

Specific laws for child seating vary by state. To learn more, visit iihs.org/laws/ChildRestraint.aspx.