As parents working in a pediatric group ourselves, we know that parenthood can be one of the most joyful but also stressful experiences in life, especially if you’re a first-time parent. Like you, we also wish that there was a manual or instruction booklet that had all the answers.
In this blog, our pediatrics in Greenbelt, Maryland, Dr. Ego-Osuala and Dr. Obinna Ego-Osuala, will answer some of the most frequently asked questions on the child’s health. This entry will have questions geared for parents of children under five. We hope these will be helpful in your next visit to your pediatrician.
- How can I tell if my newborn baby is healthy?
Fortunately, at five or under, there’s still a straightforward way of knowing if your child is healthy or not—weight gain. A healthy baby gains weight about 1 ounce or more per day.
- How can I make sure my child is eating healthy?
The good rule of the thumb is to understand your role as a parent in relation to their meals and go from there. Aside from maintaining a consistent schedule for meals, you must also make sure to be a good role model. This means eating healthily and finishing your food so they would, too. Take this chance to make mealtimes a bonding activity for the family as well.
- I know I must get my baby vaccinated. But are they safe?
Yes, vaccines are safe. They are well-studied and strictly regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as well as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It is the best thing you can do to protect your child against life-threatening diseases.
- When should I start potty training?
There is no standard age for potty training. In his/her own time, your child will eventually be ready to use the toilet on their own. Don’t force them; instead, make sure your child feels safe and familiar in the bathroom.
But should you notice any uncommon behavior, we suggest consulting our pediatrician in Maryland at Edge Pediatrics to rule out any potential problem early on.
- How do I discipline my child?
Disciplining your child usually involves several strategies. The most basic and what lasts the longest is by being a good role model. Other strategies include:
- Noticing when your child is doing good behaviors and mentioning it to him/her
- Practicing ‘time outs’ instead of smacking. These are periods when you take out your child from interesting activities or not giving them attention to let them realize that their behavior is uncomfortable. Take note that this works specifically for children 3-8 years old, any younger and they may miss the point of this strategy.
- Outright ignoring bad behavior such as screaming and whining but giving him/her full attention once he/she stops it
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