Watch your kids grow

The region is calling on new and soon-to-be parents to schedule their child’s Enhanced 18-Month Well-Baby Visit, as it comes at an important time in any child’s development.

“This visit is longer and more in-depth, allowing extra time for parents to ask questions about their child’s growth and development,” states Cathie Logan, a public health nurse with the health department, in a news release. “This important visit is designed to build strong partnerships among primary healthcare providers and parents or caregivers, and community services.”

The visit gives the healthcare provider a chance to assess the child’s progress in development, with referrals being made for more specialized services if they are needed. Even at this young age, how the child plays, speaks and acts can offer important clues as to how they’re growing and developing.

“It’s important that parents do not accept a wait and see approach with their child’s development,” adds Logan. “The Enhanced 18-Month Well-Baby Visit provides an opportunity for parents to learn more about common developmental milestones and also supports parents to be active participants in their child’s development.”

To learn more about the Enhanced 18-Month Well-Baby Visit, call the Durham Health Connection Line at (905) 666-6241 or 1-800-841-2729, or visit durham.ca.