Catalog / Pediatric Care Handbook
Pediatric Care Handbook
A quick reference guide for parents and caregivers on common pediatric health topics, covering development, nutrition, illnesses, and safety.
Developmental Milestones (0-12 Months)
Gross Motor Skills
|
1-3 Months |
Lifts head briefly when on tummy, moves arms and legs equally. |
|
4-6 Months |
Rolls over (tummy to back), sits with support. |
|
7-9 Months |
Sits without support, begins to crawl. |
|
10-12 Months |
Pulls to stand, may take first steps. |
|
Important |
Milestones are ranges. Consult your pediatrician if concerned. |
Fine Motor Skills
|
1-3 Months |
Opens and closes hands, bats at objects. |
|
4-6 Months |
Grasps objects, reaches with one hand. |
|
7-9 Months |
Transfers objects between hands, uses raking grasp. |
|
10-12 Months |
Uses pincer grasp (thumb and forefinger) to pick up small objects. |
|
Considerations |
Provide safe objects for baby to explore. |
Social/Emotional & Cognitive
|
1-3 Months |
Smiles spontaneously, recognizes familiar faces. |
|
4-6 Months |
Laughs, enjoys playing with others. |
|
7-9 Months |
Responds to own name, plays peek-a-boo. |
|
10-12 Months |
Waves bye-bye, imitates sounds, shows stranger anxiety. |
|
Warning |
Discuss any social concerns with your pediatrician. |
Nutrition Guide (Infancy & Toddlerhood)
Breastfeeding/Formula Feeding
|
Breastfeeding: On demand, typically 8-12 times in 24 hours for newborns. |
|
Continue breastfeeding for as long as mutually desired. If formula feeding, use iron-fortified formula for the first year. |
|
Avoid cow’s milk until 1 year of age. |
Introducing Solids
|
Timing |
Around 6 months, when baby shows signs of readiness (good head control, can sit with support, shows interest in food). |
|
First Foods |
Iron-rich foods like pureed meats, iron-fortified cereals, and cooked, pureed vegetables/fruits. |
|
Introducing |
Introduce one new food at a time, waiting 2-3 days before introducing another, to watch for allergic reactions. |
|
Texture |
Start with smooth purees, gradually increasing texture as baby gets older. |
|
Allergens |
Introduce common allergens (eggs, peanuts, milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, fish, shellfish) early and often, unless there is a family history of allergies or eczema. |
|
Advice |
Always supervise the child while eating. |
Toddler Nutrition (1-3 Years)
|
Offer a variety of foods from all food groups (fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, dairy). |
|
Limit juice intake to no more than 4 ounces per day. |
|
Offer healthy snacks between meals (fruits, vegetables, yogurt). |
|
Avoid added sugars, processed foods, and excessive salt. |
|
Continue to offer cow’s milk (whole milk until age 2, then reduced-fat or fat-free milk). |
Common Childhood Illnesses
Fever
|
Definition |
Temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher rectally. |
|
Treatment |
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin) for fever reduction (follow dosage instructions carefully). Lukewarm baths. Light clothing. Encourage fluids. |
|
When to Call the Doctor |
Fever in infants under 3 months old. Fever with stiff neck, rash, difficulty breathing, or lethargy. |
Colds
|
Symptoms |
Runny nose, congestion, cough, sore throat. |
|
Treatment |
Saline nasal drops, nasal suction for infants, humidifier, rest, fluids. Avoid over-the-counter cough and cold medicines in young children without consulting a doctor. |
|
When to Call the Doctor |
Difficulty breathing, high fever, ear pain, persistent cough. |
Ear Infections (Otitis Media)
|
Symptoms |
Ear pain, fussiness, fever, difficulty sleeping, pulling at ear. |
|
Treatment |
Pain relievers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen). Antibiotics may be prescribed by the doctor. |
|
When to Call the Doctor |
Suspected ear infection. Symptoms worsen or do not improve after 2-3 days. |
Vomiting and Diarrhea
|
Treatment |
Oral rehydration solutions (Pedialyte, etc.) in small, frequent amounts. Avoid sugary drinks. BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) may be helpful for older children. |
|
When to Call the Doctor |
Signs of dehydration (decreased urination, dry mouth, no tears when crying). Bloody stool or vomit. Severe abdominal pain. |
Safety Tips
Car Seat Safety
|
Use a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible, until the child reaches the maximum height or weight limit of the seat. |
|
Once the child outgrows the rear-facing seat, use a forward-facing car seat with a harness until they reach the maximum height or weight limit of the seat. |
|
After outgrowing the forward-facing car seat, use a booster seat until the child is 4’9” tall and between 8-12 years old. |
|
Always place the car seat in the back seat. |
Home Safety
|
Poison Prevention |
Store all medications and cleaning products out of reach and sight of children. Keep products in their original containers. |
|
Choking Hazards |
Keep small objects (coins, button batteries, small toys) away from children. Cut food into small pieces. |
|
Water Safety |
Never leave a child unattended near water (bath tub, pool, bucket). Empty buckets immediately after use. |
|
Fire Safety |
Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Test them monthly. Keep matches and lighters out of reach. |
|
Burns |
Set water heater temperature to no higher than 120°F (49°C). Use stove guards. Keep hot liquids away from children. |
Safe Sleep Practices
|
Place babies on their backs to sleep, on a firm sleep surface (crib or bassinet) with a tight-fitting sheet. |
|
|
Keep the sleep area free of soft objects, such as pillows, blankets, bumpers, and toys. |
|
|
Avoid overheating the baby. Dress them in light clothing. |
|
|
Share a room with the baby for the first 6 months, but not the same bed. |
|
|
Advice |
Never let your child sleep in a car seat, stroller, or swing for routine sleep. |