child health and development record

This book belongs to:

Child’s name:

put my photo here

Welcome to your child’s health and development record

How to use this recordUse it to check and record your child’s:

> health and development

> growth

> vaccinations.

Use it for helpful tips to:

> promote your child’s growth and development

> assist with common parenting concerns

> find where to go for help.

Bring it with you:

> when attending immunisation appointments

> when you see your Child and Family Health Service nurse, your doctor or other health professional.

page 2

About the record The first 5 years of a child’s life are full of special times and important milestones. These years are also the most important for your child’s brain development, which shapes their wellbeing for the rest of their life.

Your Child Health and Development Record has been designed to help you as a mother, father or carer celebrate your child’s growth and development. It includes useful information on feeding, sleeping, settling, safety and how you can help your child grow and learn.

There are charts to help you track your child’s growth over time and milestone checklists to help you follow their development. The information you record about their health and development is important if you need to see a health professional.

This record can also be a place for special memories, photos or other keepsakes.

Please keep this important record book in a safe place as it contains valuable health information that your child will need throughout their life. You can show this record to your childcare centre, preschool and Centrelink.

You can download a copy of the Blue Book at www.cyh.com/bluebook

About me

About me

My birth detailsMy name Date of birth / /

Name of place where I was born Time of birth Sex M / F

Maternal informationMother’s name Father’s name

Pregnancy complications Blood group

Labour spontaneous / induced – reason

Type of birth: (please circle) Normal Caesarean Breech Forceps Ventouse Other

Post partum issues

Neonatal informationGestation Apgar 1 minute 5 minutes Birth weight (g) Birth length (cm) Birth head circ (cm)

Neonatal Screening Test (NNST) Card Number

Vitamin K given Injection / Oral 1st dose / / 2nd dose / / 3rd dose / /

Hepatitis B given Y / N Date given / / HBIG given Y / N Blood Group (if required) Pentavite (if required) Y / N

Neonatal issues

Going homeOnly breastmilk Y / N Infant formula Y / N Breastmilk + infant formula Y / N

Additional feeding information

Discharge notes

Date of discharge / / Discharge weight (g) Discharge length (cm) Head circ (cm)

Newborn examination My name Date of birth / / Postnatal day Date of examination / /

Check Comment

Head shape

Neck

Eyes (red reflex)

Ears

Mouth and palate

Cardiovascular

Central colour

Femoral pulses R/L

Respiratory

Abdomen and umbilicus

Anus

Genitalia

Testes fully descended R/L

Limbs and spine

Hips

Skin

Neurological, including reflexes, responsiveness/tone

Healthy term infant Serum Bilirubin >350 (jaundice) AABR required Y / N

Pre-term or sick infant Serum Bilirubin >250 (jaundice) AABR required Y / N

My family Fill in the names of the important people in my life.

me

My family health Use this page to record information on the health of your child’s family.

Mother Father Brothers Sisters

Hearing

Vision

Dental

Allergies

Asthma

Other

Record of my child’s health Use this page to record any illnesses, injuries, surgery.

Date Health issue Treatment

Immunisation

Immunisation

Immunisation

What is immunisation and why does my child need it?Immunisation is a simple, safe and effective way to protect children (and adults) from serious diseases. Immunisation involves giving vaccines to use the body’s natural defence mechanism – the immune response – to build resistance to specific infections that can cause serious illness and even death.

What vaccinations should my child have and when?The National Immunisation Program recommends a number of vaccines for all children at certain times. These vaccines are listed on pages 14 – 15 and are available free for all Australian children at birth, 2, 4, 6, 12 and 18 months and again at 4 years of age. To provide earlier protection for your baby, vaccines due at 2 months can be given to babies from 6 weeks of age and the vaccines due at 4 years can be given to children from 3½ years of age.

Children born prematurely or who have long-term illnesses may need extra vaccines as they are at an increased risk of complications from these illnesses. If you are unsure, check with your doctor, nurse or health care worker.

Don’t delay!To offer the best protection, it is important for your child to be vaccinated at the recommended times rather than delaying or only giving some of the vaccines. If these vaccinations are not given at the right time your child may not be protected against harmful diseases. If you miss a date, contact your immunisation provider straight away to discuss and organise your child’s vaccinations.

What if my child is Aboriginal?Be sure to tell the doctor, nurse or health care worker if either parent identifies as Aboriginal as your child may need extra vaccinations at 12 and 18 months of age to give them added protection.

Is vaccination safe?Vaccines, like any other medicine can have side effects. Most reactions, such as soreness at the injection site or a slight fever, are mild and short lasting. Your immunisation provider will explain what reactions there might be after a vaccination and what to do if you are worried. Serious side effects are extremely rare but may include allergic reactions (including anaphylaxis). It is important for you to wait 15 minutes after vaccinations so your child can be observed for any reactions. Your immunisation provider is trained to recognise and manage any immediate, severe reactions.

For more information about possible side effects:

> call the SA Health Immunisation Section on 1300 232 272 Monday to Friday 8.30 am – 5.00 pm

> call healthdirect Australia outside of business hours on 1800 022 222

> read the Immunisation myths and realities booklet www.immunise.health.gov.au

> read information on the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) website www.ncirs.edu.au

Where do I go to get my child vaccinated? Are the vaccines free?Check with your doctor, local council or community health service. The vaccines listed on pages 14 – 15 are free for all Australian children who are eligible to hold a Medicare card. Immunisations provided by local councils and community health services are free. Many doctors also provide childhood immunisations for free, but some may charge a fee for the consultation.

What my immunisation provider will ask me before my child can be vaccinatedBefore any immunisation takes place your doctor or nurse will ask you some questions:

> if you understood the information given to you about immunisation

> if you need more information before you decide whether to go ahead with vaccination

> if you agree for your child to be vaccinated.

Discuss any concerns you may have about the vaccines or diseases before your child is vaccinated.

Why do I need to keep a record of my child’s vaccinations?It is important to keep a record of your child’s vaccinations as you may need to provide proof of your child’s vaccination history to enter childcare, kindergarten or school. It may also be useful to your child when they are an adult. Take this book along each time your child is immunised so the vaccines given can be recorded.

School-based immunisation program and other vaccinationsIn South Australia, vaccines on the National Immunisation Program for adolescents are delivered by local government or a health service through a school-based immunisation program. Records of school-based and other vaccines your child may receive, for example annual influenza and / or vaccines required for overseas travel, can be recorded on page 19.

For more information > Call the SA Health Immunisation Section, on 1300 232 272 Monday to Friday 8.30 am – 5.00 pm.

> Outside of these hours, healthdirect Australia is able to offer advice on 1800 022 222.

> Visit www.immunise.health.gov.au and / or www.ncirs.edu.au

> The science behind immunisation www.science.org.au/policy/immunisation

> For travel immunisation advice visit www.smartraveller.gov.au

Immunisation records are important to

keep for childcare, kindergarten, school, university, travel and

employment.

South Australian Childhood Immunisation Schedule July 2013The National Immunisation Program is subject to change. Your immunisation provider will have the most current information.

Age Dose no. Disease Vaccine

Birth (0 – 7 days) Birth Hepatitis B HB Vax II Paediatric

6 weeks – 2 months 1st

1st

1st

Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Haemophilus Influenzae type b (Hib), Hepatitis B, Polio

Pneumococcal

Rotavirus

Infanrix hexa

Prevenar 13

RotaTeq

4 months 2nd

2nd

2nd


Pneumococcal

Rotavirus

Infanrix hexa

Prevenar 13

RotaTeq

6 months 3rd

3rd

3rd


Pneumococcal

Rotavirus

Infanrix hexa

Prevenar 13

RotaTeq

12 months 1st

1st / 4th

Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)

Haemophilus Influenzae type b (Hib) / Meningococcal C

M-M-R ll / Priorix

Menitorix

South Australian Childhood Immunisation Schedule

Age Dose no. Disease Vaccine

12 months Aboriginal children only

1st

1st / 4th

4th

1st

Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)

Haemophilus Influenzae type b (Hib) / Meningococcal C

Pneumococcal

Hepatitis A

M-M-R ll / Priorix

Menitorix

Prevenar 13

Vaqta Paediatric

18 months 2nd / 1st Measles, Mumps, Rubella/Varicella (Chicken Pox) MMRV


2nd / 1st

2nd

Measles, Mumps, Rubella/Varicella (Chicken Pox)

Hepatitis A

MMRV

Vaqta Paediatric

3½ – 4 years 4th Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio Infanrix IPV

The term Aboriginal is inclusive of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.

Immunisation record (to be completed by doctor or nurse)

My name Date of birth / / Medicare number

Age Dose No. Immunisation Batch number Date given

Next due Provider signature / stamp

Birth (0 – 7 days)

Birth Hepatitis B LL/RL

6 weeks – 2 months

1st Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), Hepatitis B, Polio LL/RL

1st Pneumococcal (13vPCV) LL/RL

1st Rotavirus (Oral)

4 months

2nd Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), Hepatitis B, Polio LL/RL

2nd Pneumococcal (13vPCV) LL/RL

2nd Rotavirus (Oral)





6 months

3rd Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), Hepatitis B, Polio LL/RL

3rd Pneumococcal (13vPCV) LL/RL

3rd Rotavirus (Oral)

12 months

1st Measles, Mumps, Rubella LA/RA/LL/RL

1st / 4th Meningococcal C / Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) LA/RA/LL/RL






1st Measles, Mumps, Rubella LA/RA/LL/RL

1st / 4th Meningococcal C / Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) LA/RA/LL/RL

3rd Pneumococcal (13vPCV) LA/RA/LL/RL

1st Hepatitis A LA/RA/LL/RL

18 months2nd / 1st Measles, Mumps, Rubella /

Varicella (Chickenpox) LA/RA


2nd / 1st Measles, Mumps, Rubella / Varicella (Chickenpox) LA/RA

2nd Hepatitis A LA/RA

3½ – 4 years

4th Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio LA/RA

Additional vaccinations (for example influenza, travel vaccines)

Age Dose No. Immunisation / site given Batch number Date given


Hearing

Hearing

Things to look for with your baby’s hearing

Does your baby: from birth startle to a loud noise?

show an awareness of the sound of voices by 2 months?

search for sound with their eyes by 4 months?

respond to sound by turning their head by 6 months?

Remember, if your baby was born prematurely, adjust their age for prematurity to see what you can expect them to be doing.

If you are worried about your child’s hearing see your doctor.

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Hearing screening and assessmentUniversal neonatal hearing screening (newborn hearing screen)All babies have a hearing screen soon after birth. It is very important to find out early if your baby has a hearing loss so that they can be treated if needed. Neonatal hearing screening is quick, free and results are available straight away.

Check to see if your baby has had a screen, and what the result was. Your baby should have at least one of the indicated hearing screens.

If your baby has not had a hearing screen, contact the Universal Neonatal Hearing Screening program on (08) 8303 1585 (Monday – Friday office hours).

It’s best to have the screen as soon as possible after your baby is born. If you miss this, call (08) 8303 1585 to make a time. This screen can be done up to 6 months of age, although younger is better.

Hearing screen results

Pass (P) Refer (R) Decline (D) No test (N)

Please tick OAE AABR

Left ear Right ear

Date / /


Left ear Right ear

Date / /


Left ear Right ear

Date / /


Left ear Right ear

Date / /

12 month Hearing Assessment Service

Appointment recommended Yes / No

Date / / Signature

Please refer to criteria overleaf.

Universal neonatal hearing screening results PassYour baby showed a clear response to sound in both ears during the screening tests.

ReferYour baby did not show a clear response to sound during the screening tests.

If referred on the first newborn screen, the Child and Family Health Service will contact you to arrange follow-up screening. This will occur separately to any other services you may or may not have consented to receive from the Child and Family Health Service.

If referred on the follow-up screening the Universal Neonatal Hearing Screening program will contact you to arrange for further diagnostic hearing tests for your baby. This test takes anywhere from 2 to 4 hours and testing requires your baby to be asleep for part of the appointment. Please ensure your baby does not have a sleep before the appointment. We recommend feeding your baby upon arrival or just before the appointment to ensure your baby is settled.

Please read the Universal Neonatal Hearing Screening brochure given to you at the first hearing screen.

Follow-up with the Hearing Assessment Service is recommended at 12 – 15 months of age if any of the following risk factors are identified, even if they have passed the universal neonatal hearing screening:

> a close relative (child’s parent or sister/brother, child parent’s sisters/brothers or their children) has a congenital hearing impairment

> significant head injury

> any disorder affecting the brain or nerve pathways

> any syndrome known to be related to hearing loss, such as Down Syndrome

> Meningitis/Encephalitis

> Congenital infection during pregnancy (Cyto Megalo Virus (CMV), Toxoplasmosis, Rubella, Herpes Simplex, Syphilis)

> admission to neonatal intensive care unit and ventilated for more than 3 days

> aminoglycoside antibiotics (such as Gentamicin) administered for 3 days or more at the time of screening

> jaundice requiring exchange transfusion

> parental concern about the child’s hearing.

For more information or to make an appointment please contact the Hearing Assessment Service on (08) 8303 1530.

Growth charts

Growth charts

Growth chartsBabies grow quickly, especially over the first 12 months. Once your baby is a toddler (1 – 3 years) their growth will slow down.

It’s a good idea to record your child’s growth over time. You can plot their weight and height at different ages and see if they follow a growth curve. This is more important than where they are on the chart at any one time.

Measuring growthYou can weigh your baby yourself, at your Child and Family Health Service centre or a chemist. Once a month is usually enough as it is normal for weight to go up and down from day to day. If you need help with this, make a time with your Child and Family Health Service nurse. Until your baby turns 1, weigh them without clothes to give an accurate weight.

Plotting growthYour doctor or Child and Family Health Service nurse can explain how to plot the graphs and can pick up on any growth problems (such as underweight or overweight) by looking at your child’s growth chart. After your toddler

turns 2, your health professional may also plot their Body Mass Index (BMI), which gives an indication of healthy weight or if your child is at risk of being overweight.

Talk with your health professionalIf you are worried about your child’s weight or height, or if your child seems to be dropping or increasing percentiles, see your health professional to discuss this with them. If your child is sick or has a health problem, this can affect their growth and development. If your baby was born prematurely, their age needs to be corrected when plotting on the chart until they turn 2.

‘Percentiles’ are measurements that show where your child’s growth is compared with others. If your child is in the 50th percentile, it means that

50% of babies of the same age are heavier and the other 50% are lighter.

page 24

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32 33 34 35 36 37 38 3931 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 494140 5030cm cm

Age (m

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1 2

3 4

5 6

7 8

9 10

11 12

13 14

15 16

17 18

19 20

21 22

23 24

5th

25th

10th

50th

75th

90th

98th

Percentiles

Boys head circumference-for-age percentiles

Birth to 24 months

32 33 34 35 36 37 38 3931 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 4941 5140 5030cm cm

Birth

1 2

3 4

5 6

7 8

9 10

11 12

13 14

15 16

17 18

19 20

21 22

23 24

5th

25th

10th

50th

75th

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98th

Percentiles

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Girls length-for-age percentiles

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100

40cm cm

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2 3

4 5

6 7

8 9

10 11

12 13

14 15

16 17

18 19

20 21

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1 2

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5 6

7 8

9 10

11 12

13 14

15 16

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9 10

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105

110

115

120

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135

140

145

150

155

160

165

170

175

180

130

2

3 4

5 6

7 8

9 10

11 12

13 14

15 16

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50th

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100

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160

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170

175

180

185

190

140

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7 8

9 10

11 12

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Help me grow and learn

Help me grow and learn

Help me grow and learnChildren need help to grow and learn from their mothers and fathers, grandparents, aunties, uncles and other special people in their lives.

Play is an important way in which children learn. You can include play and learning into your everyday activities right from birth.

Ideas for play:

> singing simple songs

> naming and playing with toys

> making games of finding things

> counting things.

Children benefit from you talking, reading and sharing picture books with them from birth.

Ideas for talking:

> when you are bathing them or changing their nappy

> when you are preparing their meals

> when you are out for a walk.

Children respond well to consistent ways of doing things and being responded to. This will help them understand what is happening and what to expect. Let them know about what is going to happen that day and when plans change.

If you need further help or are worried about anything else, visit a Child and Family Health Service nurse or your doctor.

It’s never too early to start reading to your child. Find out

more at www. thelittlebigbookclub.

com.au

page 35

SleepBabies and toddlers vary a lot in how much they sleep. Newborns wake at night several times for feeds. As they get older they sleep more and wake less at night. Toddlers may still wake and need your help to go back to sleep.

Regular quiet activities in the lead up to bedtime can help children of all ages go to sleep. Consider including things like bathing, cleaning teeth, reading a story, singing a song, and having cuddles.

Providing a safe sleeping environment is really important – it reduces the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome), suffocation, falling and being injured by other hazards.

Whenever you put your baby down to sleep make sure they are:

> on their back (never on the front or side) with their head and face uncovered and their feet at the end of the cot

> in a cot that meets Australian Standards without any soft items that could suffocate them (for example pillows, doonas, bumpers, sheep skins and soft toys)

> not exposed to cigarette or other smoke

> in a cot away from curtain and blind cords and other hazards, with light bedding tucked in securely or in a baby ‘sleeping bag’

> in the same room as the parents for the first 6 to 12 months.

Babies Toddlers Preschoolers

> give signs such as eye rubbing, yawning and grizzling when they are tired and need sleep

> cry as part of normal development. This seems to increase around 6 to 8 weeks and settle by 12 weeks

> can sleep about 5 hours (Midnight to 5.00 am) which is considered to be ‘sleeping through the night’.

> may still wake at night, and be unable to get back to sleep without your help

> may give up their day sleep around 3 years

> may start climbing out of their cot. Move them to a bed when this happens.

> usually grow out of night waking by the time they are 3 or 4 when they feel more secure being by themselves

> may find it harder to relax and go to sleep.Avoid exciting or stimulating activities before bed.

For information on sleep and helping your child to settle, go to www.cyh.com or www.sidsandkids.org or see your Child and Family Health Service nurse.

SettlingBabies often cry more than their parents expect. You may need to try different ways to try and settle your baby.

Ways to settle and calm your baby, include:

> feeding

> rocking (in your arms, in a rocker, in a pram, in a baby carrier / sling)

> patting

> gentle talking, humming, singing

> gentle massage

> settling holds such as over the arm or in a ‘C’, see www.cyh.com for examples

> wrapping – make sure the wrap is cotton or muslin and not too tight. Leave enough room for their legs to bend with knees apart to help their hips develop normally. Visit www.sidsandkids.org for more information on how to safely wrap your baby

> a safe infant sleeping bag – these can be used from birth and are recommended when they start to roll from their back to their front (they need to fit the neck well, have armholes, no hood and have enough room for their legs to bend with knees apart).

If you are feeling tense, frustrated and upset place your child safely in a cot, take a break and give yourself time to calm down, or get someone else to help you.

See your Child and Family Health Service nurse if you are having problems with settling your baby.

STOP!NEVER SHAKE A

BABY, it can damage their brain.

Healthy eatingChildren will grow best when they are well fed. Breastmilk is the healthiest way to feed your baby. The only safe alternative is infant formula.

Signs that your baby is feeding well are that they are gaining weight, have plenty of wet and pooey nappies each day, have pale wee, and are alert and content at least for some of the time.

In hot weather your baby may need more feeds to keep them hydrated.

Eating together as a family can help your child learn to enjoy healthy foods.

As they grow older encourage them to help you choose fruit and vegetables, watch or help you make meals, or play games and read stories about good food.

Choking is a risk at any age. Children under 4 do not have back teeth to chew and grind food. It is important to supervise your child when they are eating. Make sure they don’t eat when they are running or playing, laughing or crying.


> Every extra month you feed your baby breastmilk is a bonus for their health.

> If you are breastfeeding, avoid drinking alcohol.

> For more information on breastfeeding and alcohol visit www.breastfeeding.asn.au

> For information about expressing breastmilk visit www.breastfeeding.asn.au

> Babies need solids from about 6 months. Try different family food types and textures as they grow older.

> If your baby is drinking formula milk, they can stay on their first type and don’t need to change to ‘follow on’ formulas.

> The best drinks are breastmilk, cool boiled tap or rainwater, or full cream cow’s milk from a cup.

> Encourage them to drink about 2 cups of milk (or equivalent yoghurt or cheese) a day.

> Drinking too much milk will take up the tummy space they need for healthy food.

> Encourage them to feed themselves, to eat slowly and chew well.

> It is common for them to be fussy with food.

> Avoid fruit juice – offer fresh fruit instead.

> Let your child decide when they have had enough to eat – don’t force them to eat or bribe them with dessert as a reward.

> Take healthy snacks like fruit and vegetables, sandwiches, cheese and crackers when you’re on the go or for childcare or preschool.

> For more information on healthy eating visit www.raisingchildren.net.au/nutrition/newborns_nutrition.html and www.gofor2and5.com.au

> For information about preventing choking visit www.cyh.com

SafetyBabies and children need their mothers and fathers and other important people to keep them safe.

Watch out for your baby / child at all times.

Smoking around your child can damage their health. One of the best things you can do for your child is to quit smoking. For help call the Quitline on 13 78 48.

Babies

> Make sure they sleep on their back (never on the front or side) in a cot. It is recommended that the cot is in the same room as the parents for the first 6 – 12 months.

> Check the cot is safe and meets Australian Standards.

> Keep the cot clear of items that could cause suffocation such as pillows, quilts, doonas, bumpers. Less in the cot is best!

> Keep blind cords and other hazards up and away from the cot.

> Use a correctly fitted capsule / car seat on every car trip.

> Never leave them unattended on the change table or any raised surface – they may roll and fall off.

> Protect your baby from burns and scalds from things like hot water, hot drinks and the sun.

> Never leave them unattended in a bath or with animals such as cats and dogs.

Toddlers

> Watch them at all times when they are near water (including baths, buckets, wading pools, swimming pools).

> Empty baths, buckets and wading pools after each use and fence backyard pools.

> Keep hot things out of reach to prevent burns.

> Use a full harness with high chairs, swings and prams.

> Put a safety gate at the top and bottom of stairs to prevent falls.

> Keep all medicines and household chemicals (such as those used for cleaning) up high and out of reach in a locked cupboard.

> Watch them in the driveway. Make sure you know exactly where they are before moving the car.

> Secure TVs and heavy furniture like bookshelves and cabinets so they don’t topple on children.

> Supervise your child with animals / pets.

Safety

Preschoolers

> Set up play equipment on a soft surface and close to the ground.

> Teach your child their full name and address and get them to practise it.

> Always supervise your child crossing the road and in car parks, when they are around dogs (especially when the dog is eating) and when they are in the kitchen (keep them away from hot stoves, sharp knives, detergents).

> Make sure your child wears a helmet every time they ride a bike or scooter.

> Children must be in a car seat until they are 7 years old. Use an approved car seat on every trip.

> Young children should not use a stove or microwave as they may burn themselves. Keep matches and lighters out of reach.

> For more information on keeping your child safe visit www.kidsafesa.com.au or www.sidsandkids.org.safe

STOP!Never leave your child unattended

in the car. It’s not safe.

page 40

CaringA child’s brain develops best when someone is there to care and meet their needs. Responding to them lovingly and quickly helps to develop their trust and security – it does not mean you are spoiling them.

The involvement of dads and other family members is important for children’s development. They can share the parenting and get involved in play, reading, bathing and settling.


> communicate what they want by sounds and movements

> have times when they develop faster. These times are called ‘wonder weeks’ and they can be a bit fussier at this time. Find out more about wonder weeks from www.cyh.com

> love to play – try to fit play times in during your day and while you’re doing everyday activities.

> need loving care and your attention.

> are full of energy, are curious and love exploring their world

> like to be active, play games with balls, go for walks, and practice jumping, and running

> like to help with household tasks

> are interested in other children but don’t really understand how to play together

> commonly have temper tantrums when they are frustrated or cross

> are generally ready to be toilet trained between 2 and 3 years old. Be patient with accidents as they learn.

> show or tell you what they prefer – give choices that you are happy with, set limits and be consistent.

> are learning to follow simple rules but may need gentle reminders

> are increasing their attention span and can stay ‘on task’ for a while

> are still learning to manage their feelings and may shift suddenly from being happy to sad

> may show their independence by making demands or bossing others

> may be getting ready to go to school – help them by talking about school and showing them where it is.

For ideas on fun games and activities for you and your child, visit www.cyh.com or www.raisingchildren.net.au

Caring for your baby takes a lot of your time but try to find some time

for other important people in your

life as well.

Teeth and dental healthLooking after your baby’s teeth helps give their adult teeth a good start.

Care for your baby’s teeth by:

> cleaning their teeth when they first appear with a small soft toothbrush or clean cloth

> avoiding toothpaste until 18 months

> using only breastmilk, water or formula in their bottle. Avoid fruit juice, cordial and fizzy drinks.

> not putting your baby to bed with a bottle – this is the main cause of tooth decay in children under 5 years.

If your baby uses a dummy, clean it under running water (not in your mouth) to avoid the transfer of germs that cause tooth decay.

For your toddler or preschooler:

> Brush teeth twice a day, after breakfast and before going to bed. Use a low-fluoride children’s toothpaste and a small soft brush.

> Lift your toddler’s lip once a month to check for early signs of tooth decay. White lines on the tooth near the gum line can be the beginning of decay. See your dentist or visit the SA Dental Service if you are concerned.

> Choose food and drinks that are low in sugar. Sugary food and drinks cause tooth decay.

Your baby can start to drink

from a cup from 6 months and

after 12 months can have all drinks

from a cup.

This material has been reproduced with the permission of the SA Dental Service.

Your baby’s tooth chartThis chart is a guide but every baby is different and your baby’s teeth may come through in a different order or at a different age. Don’t be concerned if this is the case.

At around 12 – 18 months arrange a time with the School Dental Service or your private dentist for their first dental check.

To contact the School Dental Service visit www.sadental.sa.gov.au for a list of school dental clinics or telephone (08) 8222 8222.

All dental care provided by the School Dental Service for babies, toddlers and preschoolers is free.

My health and development

My health and development

Watching your child’s development Children develop at different rates. Some will learn and develop more quickly than others. Some will do more difficult things before simple things.

It is important to give your child opportunities to develop. Visit www.raisingchildren.net.au and www.cyh.com for lots of ideas about the things you can do with your child to help them grow and learn.

The milestones on the following pages are a guide to what your child should be learning and doing at different stages. You can either tick the box and / or note the age that your child can do these. Around 6 – 9 months and 18 – 24 months are a key age to check your child’s development.

If your baby was born prematurely, adjust their age for prematurity to see what you can expect them to be doing. For example if your baby was 2 months (8 weeks) premature, at 6 months of age, expect them to be doing the things that a 4 month old baby would do.

You know your child best. If you think your child is not reaching their milestones at any stage or needs a health check, don’t wait, make a time to see your Child and Family Health Service nurse. Take this book with you – it might help you explain why you are worried.

Child and Family Health Service supports parents in caring for their child. Any issues can be discussed with your Child and Family Health Service nurse. Telephone Child and Family Health Service on 1300 733 606 for an appointment. Services are free.

page 44

Milestones

Learning to talk and connect


make different cries for hunger and pain (1 – 5 months)

laugh or chuckle (2 – 3 months)

make sounds (such as ‘bub-bub-bub’) topeople (4 – 7 months)

look for their family or pets when named (6 – 8 months)

make a sound to get attention (7 – 8 months)

recognise their name (9 – 10 months)

respond to simple requests like ‘where isthe ball?’ (9 – 14 months)

move to music (11 – 12 months)

talk to themselves when alone (11 – 12 months)

use 1 clear word with a meaning such as‘mama’ or ‘dada’ (11 – 14 months)

wave bye-bye (12 – 15 months)

point or gesture to show what they want(12 – 19 months)

point to simple body parts such as nose ortummy when asked (15 – 22 months)

use 15 or more words, name some objectsand talk more clearly (17 – 21 months)

enjoy nursery rhymes and try to sing simple songs (18 – 23 months)

use a name to refer to themselves (18 – 24 months)

follow 2-step instructions such as ‘put on your shoes and get your hat’ (18 – 24 months)

put 2 words together such as ‘go bye-bye’,‘push car’ (20 – 24 months)

say how objects are used for example a cupfor drinking (26 – 32 months)

enjoy telling stories and reading favouritebooks (28 – 36 months)

take turns when talking with others (36 – 50 months)

use ‘I’, ‘me’ & ‘mine’ (36 – 50 months)

understand some ‘time’ words such as‘morning’, ‘afternoon’, ‘today, ‘tomorrow’ (36 – 50 months)

use sentences of about 6 words withmostly correct grammar (42 – 54 months)

speak clearly enough to be understood byanyone (42 – 54 months)

use language when playing with otherchildren (48 – 60 months)

talk about things that are happening, havehappened or might happen (54 – 66 months)

explain why something happens such as‘Mum’s car stopped because the petrol ran out’ (54 – 66 months)

follow 3 directions such as ‘stand up,get your bag and wait by the door’ (54 – 66 months)

say how they feel (54 – 66 months)

page 45

Milestones

Learning to move and be active


kick their legs well (0 – 3 months)

lift their head up when lying on tummy(0 – 3 months)

lift their head and shoulders when lying ontummy (2 – 4 months)

lie on their back and play with their feet (5 – 6 months)

pull themselves around using their forearmswhile lying on tummy (5 – 7 months)

roll over from back to tummy (6 – 8 months)

sit on their own (8 – 9 months)

crawl forward or bottom shuffle (8 – 10 months)

pull themselves up holding onto furniture(6 – 11 months)

move around holding onto furniture (9 – 13 months)

kneel on the floor (11 – 13 months)

walk backwards (12 – 21 months)

walk by themselves without support (13 – 15 months)

bend over to pick up a toy without fallingover (16 – 23 months)

kick a ball forward (18 – 25 months)

jump with both feet off the ground at once(22 – 30 months)

catch a large ball with both hands (24 – 26 months)

ride a pedal bike or pedal toy (24 – 36 months)

walk upstairs using alternate feet (24 – 30 months)

get up from kneeling without using handsfor support (25 – 32 months)

jump off 2 steps and land with feettogether (32 – 50 months)

climb on play equipment (36 – 48 months)

balance on either leg for 3 seconds (36 – 48 months)

hop 3 times on 1 foot (36 – 50 months)

run fast outdoors avoiding obstacles (36 – 50 months)

jump over low objects without falling (36 – 50 months)

kangaroo hop with 2 feet together (36 – 54 months)

walk down stairs using alternate feet (36 – 54 months)

run to kick a medium-sized ball (40 – 50 months)

Learning to use my hands


use their arms equally (0 – 2 months)

look at their hands (2 – 3 months)

reach for a toy and hold briefly (4 – 5 months)

shake a rattle (4 – 8 months)

transfer a toy from 1 hand to the other(5 – 7 months)

practice dropping objects (8 – 10 months)

bang objects together (8 – 12 months)

poke things with their pointing finger (9 – 12 months)

put objects in containers (10 – 11 months)

pick up small crumbs or objects with theirfinger and thumb (10 – 12 months)

put a round piece back in a simple puzzle(12 – 15 months)

use their pointing finger to show what theyare looking at (12 – 16 months)

place 2 blocks or objects on top of oneanother (12 – 16 months)

put an object or water from 1 containerto another (18 – 24 months)

scribble going round and round (20 – 24 months)

feed themselves without help (24 – 28 months)

use child-safe scissors with an adultwatching (24 – 36 months)

draw a circle and cross (24 – 36 months)

screw and unscrew bottles and jars (24 – 36 months)

build a tower of 8 blocks (28 – 36 months)

hold a pencil with their finger and thumb(36 – 54 months)

pour liquid from a small container (36 – 54 months)

put on shoes and socks without help (42 – 48 months)

string 11 small beads (44 – 50 months)

copy a ladder and square (48 – 56 months)

use child-safe scissors to cut out shapes (48 – 60 months)

fold paper in half with edges meeting (50 – 58 months)

wash face and hands without help (50 – 60 months)

begin to write the letters of their name (52 – 60 months)

draw a recognisable face with eyes, nose,mouth (56 – 64 months)

Learning to work things out


get upset if their toy is taken from them(2 – 5 months)

like playing with tissue paper (2 – 6 months)

begin to hold a spoon (4 – 5 months)

pick up a toy and put it in their mouth (4 – 7 months)

hold 2 objects at once (6 – 8 months)

find a hidden toy or object such as hiddenunder a cup or blanket (7 – 11 months)

know themselves in the mirror, if that’s okin your culture (7 – 10 months)

play with cups, spoons and saucers (9 – 11 months)

hold 3 blocks at once (10 – 11 months)

pick up and drink from a lidded and closedfeeder cup without help (10 – 14 months)

manage an open cup without help (15 – 18 months)

do puzzles of 1 – 3 pieces (15 – 22 months)

open a door (17 – 19 months)

take off their shoes and socks (18 – 20 months)

point to at least 4 body parts on theirdoll or teddy – hands, hair, feet, eyes, nose and mouth (20 – 24 months)

ask for things they want (24 – 26 months)

understand what ‘big’, ‘high’, ‘long’, ‘under’, ‘over’, ‘on top’ and ‘around’ mean (30 – 40 months)

count to 4 from memory (36 – 40 months)

name 6 different colours (40 – 48 months)

count 4 blocks pointing to each block inorder (40 – 48 months)

know proper place for own things (30 – 52 months)

state opposites such as ‘big’ and ‘little’,‘high’ and ‘low’, ‘wet’ and ‘dry’ (36 – 60 months)

take the middle block from a line of 5blocks (45 – 54 months)

correctly repeat a number with 4 digits(such as 5816 or 4952) (46 – 50 months)

count 10 blocks pointing to each blockwithout any mistakes (48 – 60 months)

give a reason why an object or picturedobject does not belong with the other 4 (54 – 60 months)

place 4 pictures in sequence (54 – 62 months)

find 2 objects in a picture and connectthem with a line (56 – 62 months)

Learning to be sociable


smile back when you smile at them (1 – 2 months)

keep hold of a toy being playfully pulledaway (3 – 6 months)

lift their arms when about to be picked up(5 – 9 months)

get upset when separated from familiarpeople (6 – 10 months)

join in games such as peek-a-boo (8 – 10 months)

like being cuddled (8 – 10 months)

only like familiar people to feed, dress,change and comfort them (8 – 12 months)

show interest in what other people aredoing (10 – 12 months)

play pretend games such as talk on thetelephone and help with household activities (18 – 28 months)

want to do everything themselves even ifthey can’t (20 – 26 months)

show you what they like and don’t like(20 – 26 months)

start to undress and help with dressingthemselves (21 – 24 months)

begin to cooperate in play with otherchildren (22 – 26 months)

learn to share their toys (24 – 30 months)

learn to be more aware of safety (24 months onwards)

say their name when asked (28 – 32 months)

know whether they are a boy or a girl(32 – 36 months)

say how old they are (42 – 46 months)

separate from their parents without crying(36 – 54 months)

understand the meaning of right and wrong(42 – 50 months)

dress and undress themselves includingbuttons, shoes and socks, but not zips (44 – 65 months)

eat different types of foods (48 – 54 months)

use the toilet independently (48 – 56 months)

remain calm if change or disappointmentoccurs, and no remedy is possible (49 – 55 months)

attend to a task for 10 minutes withoutsupervision (49 – 60 months)

have special friends that they like to playwith (50 – 60 months)

behave according to the peer group inmoderately structured situations (50 – 60 months)

Your baby’s eyesight Here are some stages of development that can help you know if your baby is seeing correctly.

Babies can: > see from birth, but not clearly

> watch a speaker’s eyes and mouth (2 – 3 months)

> recognise the faces of special people like Mum and Dad (2 – 4 months)

> follow noiseless moving objects with both eyes (3 – 4 months)

> search for dropped objects (5 – 7 months).

Toddlers can: > see objects in the distance such as signs or logos

> point to objects in a book

> match shapes and objects by colour and size

> pick out small detail in pictures.

Preschoolers can: > begin to colour in within the lines

> read without tilting their head

> look at a book without holding it too close or too far away.

All children should be able to use their eyes together without them turning inwards or outwards or wobbling. See your doctor or optometrist if you have any worries about your child’s eyesight at any age.

If your child needs to wear glasses tell them

that ‘glasses look cool’. If they need

to wear a patch for fixing their eyes, help them to keep it on.

My health checksHealth checks provide an opportunity to review your child’s health, growth and development. When your child has a health check your health professional will complete and explain this and record any further comments, follow-up or referral on the summary pages overleaf.

Please tick items once assessed 1 – 4 weeks 6 – 8 weeks 6 – 9 months 18 – 24 months 3 years 4 years (preschool)

Date completed / / / / / / / / / / / /

Age weeks weeks months months years years

Weight g % g % kg % kg % kg % kg %

Length/Height cm % cm % cm % cm % cm % cm %

Head circumference cm % cm % cm % cm % cm %

Head shape, including fontanelles Mouth/palate Eyes (appearance, fixation, following, corneal light reflex, distance vision)

Skin Neurological Dental – Lift the Lip Femoral pulses Hips Limbs and spine; gait (18 – 24 month and 3 years) Abdomen and Umbilicus Genitalia and Inguinal area Testes fully descended R/L Cardiovascular (doctor only) Hearing (newborns and 4 year olds/preschoolers) Development Immunisation (age appropriate as per schedule) Y / N Y / N Y / N Y / N Y / N

Breastfeeding Y / N Y / N Y / N Y / N

My health checks

Health check summary – your health professional will complete this if any follow-up or referral is required.

Follow-up comment Refer comment

1 –

4 w

eeks

6 –

8 w

eeks

page 52



6 –

9 m

on

ths

18 –

24

mo

nth

s



3 ye

ars

4 ye

ars

Notes

Notes

Notes – for your use and for your health professional

Age Date

Where to go for help


Mothers and fathers often ask about when they should see their Child and Family Health Service nurse or their doctor.

See your Child and Family Health Service nurse for support with these matters:

> breastfeeding

> infant feeding

> parenting support

> settling your baby to sleep

> your baby’s growth

> your baby’s development.

Your Child and Family Health Service nurse will listen to your concerns and offer some strategies to help.

See your doctor if you see any of these signs or if you are worried for any other reason:

> drowsiness (less alert than usual)

> lethargic (less active than usual)

> breathing difficulties

> looks paler than usual

> not feeding well

> sudden change in the number of wet/pooey nappies – remember babies can get dehydrated very quickly

> fever above 38 degrees C°

> vomiting and diarrhoea

> has an unusual rash

> more crying than usual.

You can also see your doctor for immunisations and health checks.

If you are unsure about seeing a doctor contact healthdirect Australia (24 hours) on 1800 022 222 for advice.

page 61

Where to go for help Help and information is available from many places.

Emergency (Ambulance, Fire or Police) 000

Child Abuse Report Line 13 14 78

Crisis Care (after hours and weekends) 13 16 11

Mental Health Emergency (24 hours) 13 14 65

Domestic Violence Helpline (24 hours) 1800 800 098 for counselling, support, information and referrals

Breastfeeding Australian Breastfeeding Association www.breastfeeding.asn.au

Breastfeeding Helpline (7 days) 1800 686 268

Baby Friendly Health Initiative Australia www.babyfriendly.org.au for information about baby friendly health services

SA Breastfeeding Support Services contact list www.cyh.com/breastfeedingservices a list of all services available

Childcare

Childcare access hotline (free call) 1800 670 305 free telephone service to help you find a childcare service that meets your needs

Care for kids www.careforkids.com.au for information on childcare services


Child health and development Child and Family Health Service 1300 733 606 (Mon – Fri 9.00 am – 4.30 pm) www.cyh.com to make an appointment at your local centre

Raising Children Network www.raisingchildren.net.au

The Little Big Book Club www.thelittlebigbookclub.com.au for books, activities and reading programs

Playgroup South Australia 1800 171 882 www.playgroupaustralia.com.au/sa

Speech and language fact sheets www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au

Child safetyACCC (Australian Competition and Consumer www.accc.gov.au Commission) for information on product safety and consumer rights

Home www.kidsafewa.com.au/onlinesafetydemohouse.html safety online checklist

Kidsafe SA (08) 8161 6318 for information on how to prevent child injuries www.kidsafesa.com.au


Child safety Medicines and Drug Information Centre (08) 8161 7222 for information on using medicines in pregnancy, while breastfeeding or for children

Poisons Information Centre 13 11 26

SIDS and Kids 1300 308 307 (Mon – Fri 9.00 am – 5.00 pm) www.sidsandkids.org for information on safe sleeping

DentalSA Dental Service (08) 8222 8222 www.sadental.sa.gov.au

Health and wellbeingbeyondblue 1300 224 636 for help with depression and anxiety, www.beyondblue.org.au also Dad’s handbook: A guide to the first 12 months

Drug and Alcohol Services of South Australia 1300 131 340 for prevention, treatment, information, education www.dassa.sa.gov.au and community-based services


Health and wellbeing healthdirect Australia (24 hours) 1800 022 222 for telephone health advice www.healthdirect.org.au

Go for 2&5® www.gofor2and5.com.au for information about healthy eating

MensLine Australia www.menslineaus.org.au

Quitline 13 78 48 for help to quit smoking

SHineSA 8300 5300 for information and resources on sexual health www.shinesa.org.au

ImmunisationImmunisation Australia Information Line 1800 671 811 www.immunise.health.gov.au

Australian Childhood Immunisation Register 1800 653 809 for information about your child’s immunisations www.medicareaustralia.gov.au

SA Health: Immunisation section 1300 232 272 for South Australian immunisation information

The Science of Immunisation www.science.org.au/policy/immunisation.html Questions and Answers


HearingHearing Assessment Service (08) 8303 1530

Universal Neonatal Hearing Screening (08) 8303 1585

ParentingChildren’s centres www.childrenscentres.sa.gov.au service hubs for parents and children 0 – 8 years

Parent Easy Guides www.parenting.sa.gov.au/pegs fact sheets with helpful information for parents and carers

Parent Helpline 1300 364 100 for information on child health, behaviour, nutrition, parenting

Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Helpline 1800 882 436

South Australian Multiple Birth Association (08) 8342 2330 www.communitywebs.org/samba

Raising Children Network www.raisingchildren.net.au

Child and Family Health Service www.cyh.com


OtherChild Support Helpline (08) 8463 3576 child support payments, free legal advice, emotional support www.lsc.sa.gov.au

Multicultural Health Information www.mhcs.health.nsw.gov.au/index.asp for information about infant health in many languages

SA Health www.sahealth.sa.gov.au

Vision and hearingOptometrist Association Australia (08) 8338 3100 for advice on optometrists in your area www.optometrists.asn.au

CanDo4Kids www.cando4kids.com.au

Your local councilCheck out the services and activities for children and Search the name of your council online or ring the families that your local council provides. Local Government Association on 8224 2000 or visit their website at www.lga.sa.gov.au to find out what council area you live in, if you are unsure about this.

AcknowledgementsThis Child Health and Development Record was developed with the assistance of parents and carers, Child and Family Health Service nurses, doctors and a range of health and education specialists. The SA Health Immunisation section and the SA Dental Service have contributed specific subject content.

Victoria and New South Wales governments contributed advice on consumer views on their respective state’s child health records.

Victorian Department of Education and Early Child Development provided the artwork for the World Health Organisation 0 – 2 years and the US Center for Disease Control 2 – 18 years growth charts.

The Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth provided advice on wording.

Graphic Design by Digital Media, Women’s and Children’s Health Network.

child health and development record

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