Book with Kaitlin Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Kaitlin Mayo CPNP-PC Biography Kaitlin grew up in Richmond, Virginia, where her family still resides. She attended the College of William and Mary, graduating with a bachelor's degree in Neuroscience. She continued her educational journey by graduating from Virginia Commonwealth University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Kaitlin met her now husband in Virginia and moved to California with him while he finished his service in the military, working there as a NICU nurse. She later moved with her husband to Minnesota and worked at Children's Minnesota Minneapolis for five years as a NICU nurse while completing her master's degree in nursing from Maryville University, graduating in 2022. She is board-certified as a primary care pediatric nurse practitioner and joined Wayzata Children's Clinic in 2023. Kaitlin has a passion for including the entire family in the plan of care with a focus on education and a love for new parents, babies, and lactation support. She also enjoys chronic conditions, gastrointestinal problems, and growth and development. Kaitlin loves to spend time on the water, hike, and hang out with family and friends in her free time. Back to Providers

We're hiring! If you or someone you know would be a good fit for one of our open positions, feel free to apply today! We're Hiring! We're hiring! If you or someone you know would be a good fit for one of our open positions, feel free to apply today! Open positions include front office schedulers, medical assistants, pediatricians, and advanced practice practitioners. Please visit our Careers page for more information. Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now

Book with Nicole Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Nicole Peterson DNP, FNP-C Biography Nicole grew up in the small West Central lake town of Glenwood, MN. She completed her bachelor of science in nursing degree at North Dakota State University in Fargo, ND. After graduation, she stayed in Fargo, working as a pediatric oncology RN at Sanford Children's Hospital for 4 years. During that time, she was accepted into graduate school at University of Mary in Bismarck, ND and met her husband. In 2020, they moved back to Minnesota to be closer to family. Nicole worked as an RN in the NICU at M Health Fairview Southdale Hospital for the next 3 years while she finished her advanced degree. She graduated in 2022 with a doctorate in nursing practice degree, specializing in family practice. She is nationally certified to care for patients of all ages. With a passion for pediatric health, Nicole was excited to join Wayzata Children's Clinic in 2023. She enjoys caring for children of all ages and assisting families to meet their health goals. Her and her husband live in Albertville, MN with their two labrador retrievers. They are excited to build their family in the next few years. In Nicole's free time, she enjoys spending time at the lake, fishing, hiking, camping, traveling, visiting with family, and exploring new places with her husband and dogs. Back to Providers

3 years Nutrition Offer 3 meals and 2-3 snacks a day, consisting of the same healthy foods that you serve the rest of the family. Let your child decide how much of those foods to eat. Most children at this age are influenced by the eating habits of other people (family, friends, daycare, etc.) and can make a big deal over the color, appearance, and smell of certain foods. Try to downplay any commotion, and praise whatever is eaten. Mealtime should be as pleasant as possible, and you have already established control by offering good choices. A minimum of 2 cups (about 16 ounces) of skim or 1% milk is recommended daily for most children. If your child attends daycare or preschool, ask about the foods served and your child's eating habits and manners away from home. Most children are interested in what will make them bigger, faster, smarter, and stronger, so take a beginner's look at the USDA Food Pyramid (ask us if you would like a copy) with your child and explain why good food choices will help her be better at whatever she chooses to do. You are still your child's primary tooth brusher. Brush at least twice a day with a small amount of toothpaste. Dental visits are recommended every 6 months. Wellness Visits Most children sleep 8-12 hours a night and may take a 1-2 hour nap. Naps sometimes become "rest periods" at this age but still allow both the child and caregiver to have a break. Try to make bedtime as pleasant as possible. As the imagination develops, dreams may seem more real and can be frightening. It is often helpful to establish, with your child, a series of questions your child can ask herself if frightened (Is the frightening object real or pretend? Was the noise one I've heard before?). Or, establish actions your child can take to help herself (turn on the light, look at a book). See handout on "Common Childhood Sleep Concerns" if needed. Sleep Toilet training can be a thrilling developmental stage, or a time of power struggles. It is important to understand your child's need to follow her own timing. If already trained, she may occasionally regress (especially at times of stress, such as changes in the household, vacations, starting preschool, illness). If not yet trained, your child will train quickly when interested and ready, and not a minute sooner!! Your job is to support and praise her for her successes, help her understand that accidents do happen, and remove all attention from unwanted behavior. Elimination Minnesota law requires all children to be in appropriately sized, federally approved car restraints until they are age 4 and 40 pounds. Know where your child is at all times, and supervise play activities. Start discussing "good" and "bad" touch and appropriate contact with strangers. Keep all medications and toxic household products in a locked cabinet and make sure all have working safety caps. We also recommend that you keep the Poison Control Center (800-222-1222) number handy. Remember: children imitate parents, so avoid taking medications in front of your child. Use sunscreen (at least SPF 15) during all outdoor daytime activity. Animals are very attractive, but can harm if provoked. Teach your child to approach all animals (even your own) with caution and respect. If you have a gun, lock it out of site and lock the ammunition separately. If your child spends time away from home (friend's home, daycare, grandparents' home, etc.), ask to see if guns are accessible. Teach pedestrian safety skills, and always wear helmets when biking. Supervise all water activity and wear life vests when boating (it's the law). Shaken Baby Syndrome is preventable by taking breaks before you are desperate. Discuss this with your child's caregivers, too, and make sure everyone has the Crisis Connection phone number available (612-379-6363) Safety At this age, children begin to distinguish right from wrong and occasionally behave as expected! Safe, consistent limits and a predictable daily schedule are important. Encourage your child to control her behavior for positive attention and approval, and explain why certain behaviors are unacceptable. Adjustment to a sibling is a continuous process. At each new stage of development (of either child), rivalry may resurface. Attempt to let your children work things out on their own. Effective conflict resolution starts young. We look forward to seeing your child again at age FOUR. No vaccines are usually due. Please try to be at least 10 minutes early for all scheduled well-child visits. Family Adjustments Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now

20, 21 years (female) Nutrition Try to eat 3 healthy meals a day and make this a habit for life. Your performance in school and at work and even during your free-time activity still depends on your diet. Even if you feel you're done growing, you still need 3-4 foods a day high in calcium to support the completion of your bone density and continued bone strengthening. Also, 2-3 iron-rich foods a day are still recommended to support your blood. Read food labels to see how much fiber you need and how much you are actually getting — fiber is known to prevent colon cancer and heart disease. Avoid the "traps" that often affect people your age out on their own. Junk foods taste great but can deprive your body of what it really needs and can put on the excess weight (as can alcohol). Also, avoid habits that will be tough to break later on, such as always eating in a rush or in front of the TV, or eating when stressed or while studying. If you are unhappy with your appearance or performance, take a good look at your eating and see what you could change. There is no vitamin or "energy" supplement nearly as good as just eating a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water, and exercising regularly. This becomes even more important if you are a college student or at a job where you feel you are not as active as you used to be (or would like to be). See your dentist every six months for regular cleanings and exams. Wellness Visits Keeping your body on a fairly regular wake/sleep schedule (even on weekends) will help you get the sleep you need. Try not to save all of your "think time" or studying for bedtime — it often delays falling asleep. Sleep Always wear your seatbelt in the car and your helmet when biking or in- line skating. NO ONE thinks an accident will happen to them. Wear sunscreen if you are outside. A great tan is not worth cancer. Take your body seriously. Tobacco, drugs, and irresponsible alcohol use change lives, and usually not for the better. Far too many adults have regrets about past decisions they wish they could change. If you feel you have made a past mistake, re-contract with yourself and make better future decisions. Delay sex until you're truly emotionally ready for this step. If you already are sexually active, or planning to be, be smart and responsible. If you have questions or concerns about sex, your sexuality, HIV, pregnancy, or STDs, please talk with another adult whom you trust and respect. If you live away from home and return for a visit, expect that your parents will still want to know where you are and who you're with (yes, they have their own adjustments to make regarding your independence at home!). More injuries occur in unorganized sports ("pick-up games" or "a quick jog") than ever before. Warm-up and stretch well before any exercise. Safety Continue to prioritize your demands — the ones you place on yourself as well as the ones others place on you. You will find that balancing all the parts of your life (including your free time) is the key. Try to talk to your family frequently, even if by phone. You may be surprised by how many more agreements you have now! This can be a fabulous, and stressful, time. On one hand, increasing independence and decision-making power is great. On the other hand, stresses of school and money, lack of familiar support, and increasing responsibilities and uncertainty can take their toll. If you find yourself getting stressed out more than you feel you should or can reasonably handle, please talk to someone. A friend, parent, favorite professor or coach, counselor, or health care provider can offer support and help. Social, Family, & School Your body will continue to "proportion" itself and strengthen muscles and bones. It is recommended that all young women now have routine pelvic exams (regardless of sexual history); your health care provider will then check your reproductive system more closely and screen you for cervical cancer. It is also recommended that you start routine monthly breast exams. This is a good time to start making your own health appointments (if you haven't already) and looking into an adult health clinic. Be sure you have a copy of your health history (including vaccines) as you move away from home. We recommend yearly physicals. Please call with any concerns you have about yourself. Growth Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now

18, 19 years (male) Nutrition Try to eat 3 healthy meals a day and make this a habit for life. Your performance in school and at work and even during your free time activity still depends on your diet. Even if you feel you are done growing (or close to being done) you still need 3-4 foods a day high in calcium to support the completion of your bone growth and density and continued bone strengthening. Also, 2-3 iron-rich foods a day are still recommended to support your blood. Read food labels to see how much fiber you need and how much you are actually getting — fiber is known to prevent colon cancer and heart disease. Avoid the "traps" that often affect people your age out on their own. Junk foods taste great but can deprive your body of what it really needs and can put on the excess weight (as can alcohol). Also, avoid habits that will be tough to break later on, such as eating in a rush or in front of the TV, or eating when stressed or while studying. If you are unhappy with your appearance or performance, take a good look at your eating and see what you could change. There is no vitamin or "energy" supplement nearly as good as just eating a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water, and exercising regularly. This becomes even more important if you are a college student or at a job where you feel you are not as active as you used to be (or would like to be). See your dentist every six months for regular cleanings and exams. Wellness Visits Keeping your body on a fairly regular wake/sleep schedule (even on weekends) will help you get the sleep you need. Try not to save all of your "think time" and studying for bedtime — it often delays falling asleep. Sleep Always wear your seatbelt in the car and your helmet when biking or in- line skating. NO ONE thinks an accident will happen to them, and then it does. Wear sunscreen if you are outside. A great tan is not worth cancer. Take your body seriously. Make the decision not to smoke, take drugs, have sex, drink alcohol, or ride in a car with someone who has been drinking. It only takes one mistake to change your life forever, and far too many adults have regrets about past decisions they wish they could change. If you feel you have made a past mistake, remember that you can always re-contract with yourself and make a better decision from now on. If you have questions about sex, HIV, pregnancy, STDs, drugs, alcohol, or tobacco, please talk with another adult whom you trust and respect. If you live away from home and return for a visit, expect that your parents will still want to know where you are and who you're with (yes, they have their own adjustments to make regarding your independence at home!). Remember that driving is a privilege, not a right. You are an adult by law. More injuries occur in unorganized sports ("pick-up games" or "a quick jog") than ever before. Warm-up and stretch well before any exercise. Safety Continue to prioritize your demands — the ones you place on yourself as well as the ones others place on you. You will find that balancing all the parts of your life (including your free time) is the key. Try to talk to your family frequently, even if by phone. You may be surprised by how many more agreements you have now! This can be a fabulous, and stressful, time. On one hand, increasing independence and decision-making power is great. On the other hand, stresses of school and money, lack of familiar support, and increasing responsibilities and uncertainty can take their toll. If you are finding yourself getting stressed out more than you feel you should or can reasonably handle, please talk to someone. A friend, parent, favorite professor or coach, counselor, or health care provider can offer support and help. Social, Family, & School You have probably gone through most of your growth by now, but your body will continue to "proportion" itself for years (as your muscle mass increases and bones strengthen). It is now recommended that all men do routine monthly self-testicular exams. Some men are uncomfortable doing this at first, but we will teach you how to do this and discuss why it is important, even at your age. Testicular cancer affects more younger men than older men. This is a good time to start making your own health appointments as you transition from adolescent to adult care. Be sure you have a copy of your health history (including vaccines) as you move away from home. We are happy to continue seeing you for the next few years if you choose, and we recommend another routine physical next year. Please call with any concerns you have about yourself. Growth Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now

15 months Nutrition Most children need 12-16 ounces of whole milk a day. This is an excellent time to completely wean your child to a cup if you have not already done so. Bottle habits can lead to cavities in the front teeth and, depending on what's in it, decreased mealtime appetite. Having your child eat only in his high chair (for all meals and snacks) encourages him to be a part of the family, and avoids "grazing" and potential choking situations. Your child can be offered almost everything you make for yourself (with the exception of choking foods, such as raw vegetables, nuts, whole grapes, popcorn, hotdogs, etc.), and will probably want to feed himself. Fingers still work the best, but most children can start using a spoon and fork. Continue to cut meats very small. Mealtime is usually not a toddler's shiniest moment! The typical toddler eats well at only one or two meals each day (dinner is usually the pickiest) and eats better away from home. Avoid battles at the table. Since you cannot make your child eat, provide healthy food choices and praise whatever is eaten. This way you both win. If your child seems disinterested or finished, casually remove his food (and perhaps him) from the table, and inform him with your actions that the next meal or snack will come as usual (not necessarily when he decides it should be!) See our handout "Feeding Your Toddler, Age 1 to 3" if you are interested in more information. Parents are the main toothbrushers until school age, with children helping as much as they want. A toothbrush is recommended as soon as the first molars erupt. You do not need toothpaste, but a small dab may be just the incentive for a resistant toddler. Wellness Visits Most toddlers sleep 10-12 hours each night and take one nap during the day. Your child may cry when put down for sleep, as he dislikes being separated from you (this is another attachment age). Be gentle, but firm, with your sleep routine. Stay with the crib as long as you are able, but transition to the bed if your child climbs out. Sleep Believe it or not, toilet-training has begun! Every time you acknowledge your child's wet, dry, or messy diaper you are giving information about his body that will be used later when he learns to use the toilet. Remember to choose positive messages. Also, do not be alarmed if you see a small piece of undigested food in your child's stool. This is normal when he eats a variety of table foods. Elimination You now have a "touch and go" child. He touches everything in sight and then goes on to something new! Protection is essential for his sake. Recheck all previously child-proofed areas, including the garage and lawn. Walking children have more courage and often go down unguarded stairways or fall on toys and furniture; use utmost care and constant supervision. Toddlers still test objects by putting them in their mouths. We suggest that you keep the Poison Control Center (800-222-1222) phone number handy next to all of your home phones and programmed into your cell phone. Burns happen quickly. Irons, curling rods, lamps, cigarettes, candles and hot liquids are all within reach of a curious, walking child. Remember, Minnesota State Law requires all children under age 10 to wear a life-preserver when on any private boat. Find one that fits well. Toddlers are wonderful, but can be frustrating. Avoid the potential for Shaken Baby Syndrome by taking breaks from your child before your temper flares. Call a relative or friend for help, or the Parent Warmline (612-813-6336). If you're at the end of your rope, call the Crisis Connection (612-379-6363) or Minneapolis Crisis Nursery (763-591-0100); they can help you get a break. We would like to see your child again for a routine checkup at age EIGHTEEN MONTHS. The daily thrills (and challenges!) of your child learning to talk, run, throw, identify objects, and imitate your every move are ahead. Your child's DTaP and Hepatitis A booster vaccines are recommended at that visit. Please try to be at least 10 minutes early for all scheduled well-child visits. We all wonder where they get their energy! Safety Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now

14, 15 years (male) Nutrition Try to eat 3 healthy meals a day. Your performance in school and other extra activities will respond to what you put into your body (good or bad). You need 3-4 foods a day high in calcium because your bones are approaching their peak growth and strengthening. Milk, yogurt, or calcium-fortified orange juice are good options. And don't forget the fiber — it is known to prevent illnesses such as cancer and diseases of the stomach. Your body does need more calories now than ever before, but try not to cheat it with the chips, fries, pop, and donuts. No one can deny that these "junk" foods taste great, but they can quickly replace what your body really does need and can lead to future weight problems. Try to limit these foods for special occasions. Also, try not to get into habits that will be tough to break later on, such as eating on the run or in front of the TV. Make a point to eat with your family at least once a day; as your life gets busier this may be the only time you actually see each other some days! If you are unhappy with your performance or appearance, take a good look at your eating and see what you could change. If you eat well, drink plenty of water, and exercise regularly, your body will look, grow and perform at its' best. If you are concerned about your size, please talk to your health care provider. Wellness Visits If you want your teeth and gums to be healthy your entire lifetime, take care of them now. Brush well 2-3 times a day and see your dentist 2 times a year. Teeth If you find that you need more sleep than you are getting, try to go to bed earlier instead of sleeping in; getting up late can alter your normal body rhythm and make you even more tired during the day and sleepless at night. Also, try not to save all of your "think time" for bedtime — it often delays falling asleep. Sleep Always wear your seatbelt in the car and your helmet when biking or in- line skating. We see permanent, life-changing injuries resulting from simple accidents, and NO ONE thought it would happen to them. Wear sunscreen if you are outside. A great tan is not worth cancer. Wear your life jacket if boating or near deep water, even if you swim well. Take your body seriously. Make the decision now not to smoke, take drugs, drink alcohol, or have sex. Practice what you would say if someone pressured you. It only takes one mistake to change your life forever. If you have questions about sex, HIV or AIDS, pregnancy, drugs, alcohol, or tobacco, please ask your mom or dad or your doctor or nurse practitioner. Introduce your friends to your family, negotiate your curfew times reasonably, and expect that your parents will want to know where you are. If you are in sports, make sure the playing areas are kept up well, and all protective equipment fits and is in good shape. Never share head gear. Remember that driving is a privilege to be taken seriously. Practice. And in case you didn't know, Minnesota State Law prohibits permit holders from using a cell phone while driving. Safety Your friends and school activities are important, but try to do a "family" event at least weekly, and sit and talk with your mom or dad a little every day. You may not always agree on things (such as grades, household jobs, curfew, or friends) but talking about your differences helps you understand each other better. You may find that you have special interests in school or in the community, and are starting to think about what you may be interested in doing in the future. This is also often the time of increasing interest in developing relationships with others. Family & School Many boys notice the body changes of "puberty" happening now (fast height growth, armpit and pubic hair, deepening voice, body odor, increased penis and testicle size, and acne). These changes can continue through high school. In regards to acne, the best treatment is staying healthy overall (eating well, drinking water, getting sleep and exercise). Wash your face and other acne-prone areas (back, chest) no more than 2-3 times a day with your hands and mild soap. Girls have usually experienced most of their body changes by now. All these changes can be exciting or embarrassing, so respect other people's privacy. If you have any questions about your health, body changes or sexuality, please ask your mom or dad or your health care provider here. There are also many good books. We look forward to seeing you again for a check-up next year! Growth Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now

Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Laura Brixius PA-C Biography Laura is originally from Maple Grove, MN before going to Duluth for her undergraduate degree. She has a Bachelors degree in Biology from the University of Minnesota – Duluth. After graduation, she moved to Minneapolis and worked as an EMT in the Children’s Minnesota Hospital Emergency Room. She then completed her Masters of PA Medicine back in Duluth at the College of Saint Scholastica. Laura is excited to join Wayzata Children’s Clinic in 2024. She is board certified in all ages. She has a special interest in early childhood care and adolescent mental health. She enjoys reading, hiking, traveling and spending time with her family. Laura sees patients in Minnetonka and Maple Grove. Back to Providers

Book with Maddie Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now Maddie Janke PA-C Biography Madeline grew up in Eau Claire, Wisconsin before heading to the University of Wisconsin-Madison for her undergraduate degree. Madeline received a Bachelor of Science degree in human development and family studies with a certificate in leadership in 2018. After graduation, she worked for a year as a certified nursing assistant in the pediatric intensive care unit at the American Family Children’s Hospital in Madison, WI. She then completed her Master of Science in physician assistant studies from Concordia University of Wisconsin. Madeline joined Wayzata Children’s Clinic in 2022 and is excited to fulfill her lifelong career goal of working in pediatrics. She is board certified in all ages with a special clinical interest in newborn and early childhood care. She enjoys spending time outdoors, skiing, hiking, practicing yoga, and spending time at her family cabin in Wisconsin. Madeline sees patients in Minnetonka and Maple Grove. Back to Providers

2 years Nutrition Offer 3 meals and 2-3 snacks a day. Most toddlers do not have huge appetites and may eat only 1-2 good meals; your job is to offer only healthy choices so that no matter what your child eats, you will both be successful. Most children can have skim or 1% milk (12-16 ounces daily) and can be encouraged to increase daily water and fiber intake. Remember that your child will mimic your eating habits. Offer what you prepare for everyone else. Even though food jags are common (when a child wants to eat only one food for a period of time), you'll want to avoid becoming a "short-order cook" and allowing mealtime to become a battleground. Quietly remove and dispose of food not eaten at a meal. Toothbrushing should take place twice daily with a soft toothbrush and minimal toothpaste. Since toddlers are just developing fine-motor skills, it is recommended that you follow up your child's brushing until he is school-aged. Wellness Visits Most children sleep 10-12 hours a night and may take a 1-2 hour nap. It is not uncommon for bedtime resistance to develop, as going to bed means separation from a parent or from playtime. Establish gentle but firm bedtime routines, and follow the same steps if you are away from home. It is sometimes helpful to mention something that will happen the next day to reassure your child that you will see him soon (for example, "I'll see you when the sun comes up again"). If your child climbs out of his crib, place the mattress on the floor and start looking for the bigger bed. Falls are a big risk at this age. Also, if you are expecting another child, making the move to a regular bed 2-3 months prior to the new sibling's arrival will help your toddler adjust. He will see the new bed as a "right of passage" rather than having his crib taken by the new baby. Sleep The average age of toilet training is 2 ½-3, but go by your child's signs of readiness. These include, 1) awareness of the need to urinate or have a bowel movement (demonstrated by facial expression, telling you, or by hiding); 2) ability to stay dry for 2-3 hours; 3) dislike of wet or soiled diapers (may take them off); and, 4) desire to use the toilet chair and imitate you. Explain the process in simple, relaxed terms, and decrease attention to the diapering process. Believe it or not, most children almost train themselves when the time is right. Elimination Minnesota law requires all children to be in appropriately sized, federally approved car restraints until age 4 and 40 pounds. A toddler's incredible speed and ambition can lead to dangerous falls, haste into streets, parking lots, and onto unsafe playground equipment. Accidental ingestions are one of the biggest safety hazards of this age. Keep the Poison Control (800-222-1222) number handy. Remember that children imitate parents, so avoid taking medications in front of your child. Coins are never toys or entertainment. Children choke on these even under strict supervision. Keep purses and piggy banks out of sight. Burns occur quickly. Evaluate all potentially hot items (water, candles, matches, curling/clothes irons, coffee cups, pots/pans) for accessibility. Animals are very attractive at this age, and most children do not have fear. Teach your child to approach all animals (even your own) with caution. If you have a gun, lock it out of site and lock the ammunition separately. If your child spends time away from home (friend's home, daycare, grandparents' home, etc.), ask to see if guns are accessible. Shaken Baby Syndrome is preventable by taking breaks before you are desperate. Discuss this with your child's caregivers, too, and make sure everyone has the Crisis Connection phone number available (612-379-6363) Safety The best way to decrease illness in the family is to wash your child's hands often and teach him to do this for himself. Change household towels often. Illness This is a good age to assign simple tasks to your child, as this will heighten his sense of accomplishment and belonging (at an age when he'll actually enjoy having a household chore!). Continue to keep consistent limits while encouraging exploration of his world beyond you. We look forward to seeing your child again at age THREE. Interest in "school" learning (counting, colors, ABC's, more detailed drawing) is usually more evident by then. Please try to be at least 10 minutes early for all scheduled well-child visits. Family Adjustments Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now

6 months Nutrition Most babies still nurse 4-6 times a day or take 20-36 ounces of iron-fortified formula. The amount of milk will decrease as solids increase. Babies can have a variety of pureed foods and can slowly advance to thicker foods. We recommend giving only one new food at a time (with 3-5 days between starting new foods) to make sure your baby tolerates it. This is the age when infants begin to use high chairs at mealtimes. Chewing will begin whether or not your baby has teeth. Wellness Visits Daily tooth care begins with eruption of the first tooth. Front teeth can be cleaned with water on a washcloth. Do not leave your baby with a propped bottle. This enhances tooth decay and could cause choking. If the majority of your baby's fluid intake is from nursing, ready-to-feed formula, or formula prepared with well water or bottled water, a fluoride supplement may now be recommended. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel (making it more resistant to tooth decay) and reduces cavities by up to 50%. Oral Health Stools will vary in color, consistency and odor with each new food. Elimination Babies average 10-12 hours at night and 2-3 naps a day. This is a common age for true night waking to begin and is usually related to the infant's close attachment to the parents. It is highly recommended that you allow your child to fall asleep and settle back to sleep (if he awakens) on his own, without much coaxing on your part. He usually does not need to be fed. See our handout on "Common Childhood Sleep Concerns" if you are having difficulty. Sleep BABYPROOF YOUR HOUSE!! Environmental control means making your home a safe place for your baby to move about and explore. Put away everything you do not want your baby to snatch, break, use to pull up with, or hurt himself with. Some parents like to keep one room as an adult room. Plants — The leaves of many houseplants are unsafe if eaten, and dirt is very attractive to small children. Put all plants out of reach. Electric hazards — Outlets should be covered or blocked with safety plugs. Tape cords to walls or tables or hide them under rugs. Stairways — Prevent falls with safety gates. Cleaning solutions, chemicals — Store in high cabinets or lock away. Cupboards — Use safety locks or latches. Some parents like to keep one lower cupboard unlatched (filled with plastic bowls, etc.) that the baby may explore. All other kitchen utensils, supplies, and food are potential hazards. Again, infant walkers are responsible for far too many injuries in this age group. You'll save yourself unnecessary anxiety by not using them. Apply sunscreen (PABA-free, SPF 30+) on your baby for any sun exposure. Life-preservers — Minnesota State Law requires all children under the age of 10 to wear a life-jacket when on any private boat. Find one that fits well. Shaken Baby Syndrome is preventable. If you feel frustrated with your baby's crying, put him in a safe place and take a break. Call a friend, relative, or the Parent Warmline (612-813-6336). If you are at the end of your rope and cannot reach anyone to relieve you, call Crisis Connection (612-379-6363) or Minneapolis Crisis Nursery (763-591-0100). Safety Please keep an updated record of your child's vaccines at your home (for use in an emergency, to complete future school/daycare/camp/sports forms or to aid record transfers). We recommend the next well-child visit at NINE MONTHS to examine your baby and discuss growth, feeding, and development. Usually by that time babies enjoy more social games (peek-a-boo, pat-a-cake), are crawling and possibly pulling up on furniture. They also tend to have increased stranger or separation anxiety! Please try to be at least 10 minutes early for all scheduled well-child visits. Make your baby's world a safe one. Immunizations Locations Chaska (952) 448-3847 Location & Hours Delano (763) 230-2780 Location & Hours Maple Grove (763) 324-8000 Location & Hours Minnetonka (952) 473-0211 Location & Hours Spring Park (952) 495-8910 Location & Hours Save time. Book online! Book Now