My Baby's 2.5 Year Visit

Physical Exam and Immunizations

Your Growing 30 Month Old

Your toddler is continuing to learn new things all the time. The 30-month visit allows parents to discuss growth, development, and health with their pediatrician. We’ll cover a range of important topics to ensure your toddler is thriving.

Physical Screening

During the physical screening, your pediatrician will perform a thorough head-to-toe examination, checking your toddler’s weight, height, and overall health. They’ll also assess how well they run and stop and jump on both feet to ensure they hit their physical milestones.

Language Development

By two and a half, your child has a growing vocabulary of 50 words or more and communicates in short phrases. We’ll review their speech and language development and discuss ways to encourage growth through reading, storytelling, and everyday conversations.

Behavior

Toddlers are all so different when it comes to hitting behavior milestones. We’ll discuss common behavioral topics, like tantrums, trouble sharing, and biting and discuss any challenges you might have in those areas.

Nutrition

Picky eating is common at this age. We’ll discuss ways to ensure your child gets the proper nutrition they need, including ideas for healthy snacks, balanced meals, and handling those inevitable food battles!

Toddlerhood is such a fun age full of growth and exploration. We’re here to support you and your child. Reach out to our office with any questions or concerns you might have before or after your appointment. We’re just a text or phone call away

Picture of Amber Castro, CPNP-PC

Amber Castro, CPNP-PC

Amber is board-certified in pediatrics and is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Milestones to Expect

  • Your child can run, climb, and ride a tricycle with more coordination.
  • They can open doors.
  • They may dress themselves but need help with shoes and buttons.
  • Your child can speak in longer sentences (4-5 words) and ask “why” questions.
  • They enjoy imaginative play, including dressing up, using props, and acting out scenarios.

Safety Reminders

  • Begin to teach your child their full name, address, and phone number.
  • Always have your child wear a helmet when bicycling.
  • Never leave your child unattended in a car or house.
  • Keep firearms out of the home or in a locked, out-of-sight container, unloaded.
  • Keep dangerous items out of reach, including knives, scissors, cleaning agents, etc.

Medicine Dosages

WEIGHT 24-35 lbs 36-47 lbs
Children’s Acetaminophen
(160 mg / 5 mL)
Can be given every four hours.
5 mL 7.5 mL
Children’s Ibuprofen
(100 mg / 5 mL)
Can be given every six hours.
*Dosage for Infant Ibuprofen differs
5 mL 7.5 mL
Do not exceed more than 4 doses in 24 hours.

Vaccine Information Sheets

Vaccine Information Statements (VISs) are information sheets produced by the CDC that explain both the benefits and risks of a vaccine to vaccine recipients.

Influenza/Flu VIS

Covid-19 VIS

  1. Influenza/Flu
  2. Covid-19

Bright Futures

At your visit, we’ll provide a summary of what to expect at this stage of your child’s development, as well as in the upcoming weeks and months. This resource, known as Bright Futures, is available below for viewing or printing online.

My daughter is so full of life! I love seeing her sweet face when she wakes up every morning and then I know she’s ready to go. She loves riding her bike, playing with toys, and going to the park. Everything’s more fun when I get to see the world through her eyes.

When to Call Your Pediatrician

  • If your child has a fever.
  • If your child is vomiting.
  • If your child has diarrhea.
  • If your child has an unusual skin rash.
  • Any time you feel something is out of the ordinary.

From the Pediatric Blog

Creating Positive Experiences for Toddlers & Preschool-Age Children

Want to create positive experiences for your toddler? Spend quality time reading, establish comforting routines, engage in playful activities, and include them in family tasks.

Tummy Troubles: Decoding Common Digestive Issues in Kids

Discover the ins and outs of common childhood digestive issues. Learn when to soothe with patience and when to seek urgent care for your child’s tummy troubles.

Screen Time & Temper Tantrums: Helpful Tips for Parents

Struggling with screen time meltdowns? Set healthy digital habits with a family media plan to encourage balanced tech use. Lay the groundwork by explaining the importance of balance and engaging kids in shaping screen time rules.