Call to Book 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 Mara Liss MD Biography Mara is another Minnesota native, having grown up in Golden Valley. She went east for college and graduated from Tufts University in Massachusetts with an undergraduate degree in biology. After living in Washington D.C., she chose to move back to the Twin Cities for medical school and her pediatric residency at the University of Minnesota. She then completed an integrative medicine fellowship at the University of Kansas before starting at Wayzata Children’s Clinic in 2013. Dr. Liss is board certified in pediatrics, and aims to bring holistic, root-cause medicine to patients and families by way of consultation-based visits that encompass the many aspects of health. She has a specialized interest in how nutrition contributes to health, and believes that food is medicine. She works with families to develop plans that allow even young patients to be full participants in their health, which allows for optimal well-being. She is also a certified lactation counselor. Mara, her husband Adam and their daughter live in St. Louis Park and enjoy exploring the Twin Cities, the outdoors, spending time with family and traveling. Dr. Liss is a specialty Provider who sees patients on a consultation basis for integrative medicine and lactation visits. She works collaboratively with your child's primary care provider. Integrative medicine blends the best of traditional, complementary and alternative medicine. It is based on the belief that the human body has innate healing ability and addresses not only a person’s physical symptoms, but also the social, psychological, environmental and spiritual aspects of health and illness. We believe in empowering patients and families in their own care as well as provide them with healthcare choices that are proven to be safe and effective. Back to Providers

We've had long-standing concerns about a phenomenon called antibiotic resistance. This is a serious public health problem caused by the overuse and inappropriate use of antibiotics. Antibiotics are excellent medications when used appropriately; they fight bacterial infections and have saved many lives. The problem occurs when bacteria that have previously responded to a particular antibiotic get over-exposed to it. Those bacteria can actually change their structure and become invincible against the antibiotics that previously controlled them. This is called "antibiotic resistance", and it can affect an individual person or an entire community. The potential danger of antibiotic resistance is that the more our current antibiotics are used (especially if used inappropriately), the less effective they will be when we really need them to treat serious and life-threatening illnesses. Until now, the primary response to the problem has been the development of new antibiotics, a strategy that is expensive and temporary. There is a limit to this potential, and we close in on it every day. The most common antibiotic overuse or misuse situations occur with viral infections. Viral illnesses, while bothersome, will not get better any more quickly if an antibiotic is used. They will run their course in the time it takes the body's immune system to clear the infection. Sometimes it is assumed that if no antibiotic is advised there is "nothing wrong" or "nothing we can do." Viruses do indeed cause illnesses; our job is to keep a child with a viral illness comfortable, hydrated, and nourished, and to watch for signs of more serious illness. Examples of Common Infections Colds Characterized by runny nose, sneezing, low-grade fever, achy muscles, headache, fatigue, and cough, the common cold usually lasts from 3 to 14 days. The runny nose usually goes from clear to thick green/yellow in the middle of the cold. This is normal and does not indicate a sinus infection. The average child has 3-8 colds a year (up to 12 if in daycare), which can mean one cold after another, with no break in symptoms in between. Sinus disease Most colds involve sinus disease (congestion and pressure in the sinus area). A sinus infection is more likely if a child's cold symptoms persist more than 14 days without any signs of improvement, or if the symptoms worsen (high fever, increasing headaches, facial pain or swelling). Sore Throats Most sore throats are caused by viruses (70-90%). Strep throat is bacterial, and is usually the only type of sore throat that needs an antibiotic. A throat culture is the only way to know for sure; if it is negative, then your child does not need an antibiotic. Ear Infections Believe it or not, many ear infections (50-80%) will heal completely with observation alone and without antibiotics. This is especially true for those described as middle ear fluid without signs of other disease (redness, inflammation, fever). Sometimes children complain of ear pain but do not actually have an infection. This is the reason we see all children with symptoms of an ear infection. Coughs Most coughs are viral, even ones that last a week or so after a cold goes away. Some are dry and hacky, some are loose and congested. The diagnosis of "bronchitis" means "inflammation of the bronchi" (the large airways to the lungs). This is usually caused by a virus, as is most illness-related wheezing and even pneumonia. It is wise to have a worsening or chronic cough evaluated, but an antibiotic may not be needed. Influenza The symptoms of this winter virus include fever, cough, chills, fatigue, head and muscle aches, crankiness, and a sore throat. Unless there are complications no treatment is needed except fluids, comfort and time. The yearly vaccine usually prevents it. Pink Eye This itchy, red, mattery eye infection is occasionally caused by a virus and therefore may not respond to antibiotic eye drops. It frequently comes along with a cold, and, whether it is bacterial or viral, it is contagious so good hygiene is important. The best treatment is warm packs and vigilance (seek an evaluation at the clinic if it worsens). Antibiotic Resistance We are often asked if an antibiotic will prevent a secondary infection (such as an ear infection from a cold). While there is a select group of children considered high risk for developing secondary infections, most children are not at risk and antibiotics will probably not help. We are also sometimes confronted with the statement, "That antibiotic didn't work last time." If a child has a current infection, and cleared a previous infection more than two or three months ago (regardless of what antibiotic was used last), it is highly unlikely that the current infection is caused by the same past germ. Using a broad-spectrum ("stronger") antibiotic when a first-line antibiotic is likely to achieve the same results is another way of promoting antibiotic resistance. Bacteria develop resistance more easily against broad-spectrum antibiotics. For the reasons mentioned above we are finding it more critical to examine why and how we use antibiotics. To slow the emergence of resistant bacteria, we need to preserve the antibiotics we have by using them more sensibly. Studies show that reducing the use of an antibiotic is generally followed by a decrease in antibiotic resistance community-wide. We realize that recommending symptomatic versus antibiotic treatments for our patients is sometimes stressful for parents. We are well aware that it is hard to have a sick child, especially just before or during a vacation or special event, or when you really need to be at work. We also know it is never easy to come in for an appointment. But we value your child's health and feel an accurate diagnosis is important. This usually cannot be done over the phone. If you have any questions or concerns about your child's diagnosis or treatment, please ask. To prevent illnesses and the need for antibiotics, we can all help: Be realistic and rational about infections and their treatments; let's all avoid using or requesting antibiotics when they are neither indicated nor proven beneficial. Never start antibiotics on your own ("leftovers" from a previous illness). This increases the risk of resistance and can affect the outcome of laboratory tests if they are needed. Wash your hands, and your child's hands, frequently. Encourage immunizations. Work with daycare centers and schools to improve infection control practices. We vow to do our part, by educating ourselves, our patients and families, and by resisting the casual antibiotic attitude so prevalent in our society. 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

Acetaminophen & Ibuprofen Dosages If you are using acetaminophen or ibuprofen for more than 5 days, please contact the clinic. Dosing Charts Acetaminophen (healthychildren.org) Ibuprofen (healthychildren.org) Information Acetaminophen is the generic name for medications such as Tylenol®, Tempra®, and Panadol®. General acetaminophen dosage is 5 - 7 mg per pound per dose every 4 - 6 hours as needed. Acetaminophen comes in suppository form, also, (brand name Feverall®) which is good to have on hand in case of vomiting. Dosing is the same as oral. It is not recommended to use acetaminophen if a child is under three months of age (unless specifically recommended by a health care provider). "Treating" a fever or fussiness in this age group without knowing the cause of the symptoms can mask the illness and prolong a diagnosis. Ibuprofen is the generic name for medications such as Motrin® and Advil®. General ibuprofen dosage is 3-5mg per pound per dose every 6-8 hours as needed. Give with food. Ibuprofen is not recommended for infants under 6 months of age. 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

Expecting a new baby? Sign up for one of our New Baby Classes to join in on a discussion with one of our providers. Classes are free to attend. New Baby Classes No events at the moment 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

The purpose of our portal is to make routine, non-emergency communication more convenient and to provide patients and parents with better access to their or their child's health information. You must be a current patient of Wayzata Children's Clinic to enroll in our patient portal. Once enrolled, you will be able to: Fill out questionnaires for upcoming visits (only accessible via browser, not Healow app) View current and past appointments Access and view lab results Request prescription refills for current medications View your personal health records and immunizations Send and receive non-emergent messages from our Registered Nurses Receive e-mail appointment reminders Update demographic information How to Enroll Click the Access patient portal button above. Click the "View your health record" button. Click the "Using Mobile Phone" button and type in the patient's information (not parent's). Select the phone number you want to receive the verification text message on. Once logged in, click through the consent form. Patient Portal Viewing Lab or Test Results Using the patient portal is the fastest and easiest way to view lab results. After logging in: In the middle of the page, click "View All" inside the "Latest Results" box. Click on the name of lab you want to review the result for. Some labs may show the result in the "Result" column as well. In the page that opens, you can view the result below the blue Result bar and directly above "Notes." If your lab doesn't have a single result, you will find the results and/or values in the gray table. Access patient portal 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

Read what we're doing to protect the health and safety of our patient families, providers, and staff. COVID-19 Updates COVID-19 Testing Testing is available at Wayzata Children's Clinic by appointment only and may be advised depending on your child's symptoms. Due to supply fluctuations, we do not always have same day testing options. Supply and demand change daily, so please inquire when you call. If your child requires testing for an exposure, we encourage use of MDH or Carver county testing sites so we may preserve appointments for children who are ill. Frequently asked questions from parents including vaccination after having COVID illness MDH Testing Sites Carver County Community Testing Site Daily updates on where to find test kits Free at-home COVID-19 tests Close contacts and quarantining If you are sick or positive COVID-19 Vaccination We are working on being able to provide the COVID-19 vaccine and boosters for our patients. Please check back here for updates. Vaccine information sheets Click here to view the latest vaccine fact sheets. For general vaccine questions, call the MDH COVID-19 vaccine hotline at (651) 297-1304 or 1 (800) 657-3504 or visit the MDH website. If you live in Carver county, you may also call the COVID-19 call center at (952) 361-1559. What to expect at your child’s visit Open Clinic is suspended, no walk-ins. Please call to schedule. To reduce illness transmission, we require masks for patients and families over the age of 2. We ask that you inform staff of illness symptoms during check-in so our staff can take appropriate precautions. If your child has tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 10 days, we ask that you reschedule their visit until 10 days have passed since illness symptoms began or from a positive COVID-19 test, whichever occurs first. Telehealth Many appointments (medication follow ups, skin concerns, certain illness visits) can be done via telehealth. Our schedulers can guide you on whether this is an option for your child's appointment. 24 Hour Nurse Help Line During clinic hours, Wayzata Children's Clinic's Registered Nurses (RNs) are available for consultation. For after-clinic-hour concerns, RNs from the Children's Health Network (associated with Children's Hospital) are available. These nurses will answer your questions or, if necessary, put you in contact with a Wayzata Children's Clinic Pediatrician, who is on-call seven days a week, 24 hours a day. For life-threatening emergencies, please dial 911. Fact Sheets for COVID-19 Testing COVID-19 Test: BD Veritor System for Rapid Detection of SARS-CoV-2-BD COVID-19 Test: Cepheid Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV-2 Resources CDC Minnesota Department of Health Healthy Children Talking to Children about Coronavirus MN Vaccine Hunters Vaccine Spotter MN MN Vaccine Connector Fact Sheets & Resources Book vaccine appointment > We highly recommend the COVID-19 vaccine for ages 6+ months and the COVID-19 booster for ages 5+ years and encourage you to get it wherever you can. There is ample supply in our community with multiple opportunities to get it. Vaccine is available at community clinics, pharmacy chains, and Mall of America which is a child friendly environment. Spring Park pharmacy, Carver County, Hennepin County , and Wright County have scheduling links. Use the MN Vaccine Hunters website or Vaccine Locator to find other vaccines in your area. Parent resource link from MDH *Additional slots opened 6/23/2022! 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

How was your experience? Share a Google review! Our goal is to provide a great experience every time you call or visit. We invite you to leave a review to share your experience with us. Thank you for your time and feedback. Google Reviews Chaska Clinic Share Review Delano Clinic Share Review Maple Grove Clinic Share Review Minnetonka Clinic Share Review Patient families that submit a review prior to June 26 and fill out the entry form may win a $50 gift card! Learn more. 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

By the time a baby arrives, most parents have made the choice of either breastfeeding or formula feeding their baby. Regardless of which option you have chosen, a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere is an important aspect of the feeding experience. While breast milk has certain nutritional advantages, millions of healthy babies have thrived on formula. The decision to breastfeed or give formula to your baby will depend on many factors, including personal preference. This decision is yours alone. After Discharge From the Hospital Our preventative well visit schedule begins with a Newborn Visit during the first week of life. Life will be full of changes, learning experiences, surprises, and "firsts," for both babies and parents. Listed below are some of the most common newborn health and care issues that come up in the first few weeks at home. While most babies are healthy, please call us if you feel you have a problem. Weight loss occurs in almost all newborns during the first week of life as they rid themselves of excess fluids. A 5-10% loss is considered normal, and babies are usually back to birth weight by the two-week visit. After that, most babies gain ½ to 1 ounce a day for several months. Sleep will vary considerably. Some babies sleep 20 or more hours a day and waken only for a feeding. Others are awake every hour or so, including through the night! It is recommended that all infants be placed on their backs for sleep. Some sleeping babies gasp, snort, groan and occasionally even pause their breathing while they sleep. It's all normal. Jaundice is a yellow discoloration of the skin caused by the build-up of "bilirubin" in the blood and fat tissues. Bilirubin is the normal result of the breakdown of red blood cells (we all have bilirubin in our bodies). Because there is so much bilirubin produced in the first few days of life (from the birth, bruising, etc.), sometimes it temporarily accumulates in the skin until the liver can break it up and help the body eliminate it. The most common time babies develop jaundice is 2-5 days after delivery. This is rarely a problem, but if you notice your baby becoming quite yellow (or "orange") and lethargic, contact us at the office. The best way to prevent jaundice is frequent feedings (every 2-3 hours) to help your baby have more stools (which is one way the body excretes bilirubin). Mild jaundice can be helped by exposing a baby to window sunlight. Newborn rash or "Erythema Toxicum" is a common rash seen in the first week or two of life. It is a widely scattered rash that consists of red raised spots with whitish centers (resembling "flea bites"). The rash has no symptoms, and no one knows why babies get it, but it usually goes away on its own by the time a baby is two weeks old. Infantile (neonatal) acne is another type of skin rash that usually shows up when a baby is two to six weeks old and is due to the stimulation of the body's oil glands by maternal hormones during the pregnancy. This appears as pink raised "pimples" and can develop anywhere on the body, but most commonly on the face, chest and upper back. Some babies get only a few pimples, while others get covered from head to toe. No treatment is needed nor recommended unless the pimples begin to look infected (increasing redness or fluid-filled pustules). Infant acne does not indicate the future presence nor severity of adolescent acne. Infant breast enlargement is normal regardless of gender and is caused by pregnancy-related hormones. Sometimes a thin white discharge may be present at the nipple. Observation is all that is needed and this should clear within a few weeks. Infant female bloody spotting, or "pseudomenstruation" is the name of the blood tinged vaginal discharge caused by maternal estrogen's effect on a baby girl's vagina and uterus. It is totally normal, and may occur on and off for the first month. Hiccoughs, sneezing, chin quivering, sudden jerking movements and random eye crossing are all normal newborn behaviors and do not mean something is wrong. A newborn's nervous system is very immature and is not used to having to coordinate all those new reflexes. Umbilical cord care usually involves observation alone. Some people still prefer to clean the base of the cord 1-2 times a day with rubbing alcohol, but avoid cleaning too frequently, as this can irritate the skin and delay cord separation. A little bleeding a few days before and after the cord falls off is normal. Dry skin is normal and varies in all newborns. Some get just a little patchy dryness, while others have peeling, flaky, cracked skin all over their bodies. With the exception of extreme cases, lotions are usually not needed nor are they helpful. The dryness will resolve into smooth "baby" skin at about the same time the oil glands mature and erupt (age 2-6 weeks). Circumcision remains a subject of controversy and opinion. There is no overwhelming evidence that supports whether a child should or should not be circumcised, so the decision is left to the parents. If the decision is to circumcise, take care of the freshly circumcised penis by gently washing away debris with warm water. Follow with an application of petroleum jelly and a fresh gauze pad (to prevent the diaper from sticking to the healing site) until there is no more drainage on the gauze pads. Most circumcisions are healed and well-protected within 2-3 days. If the decision is to remain uncircumcised, the care of the foreskin consists of gently removing accumulated secretions with a soft cloth during bath time. It is not necessary to vigorously retract the foreskin during infancy; it will gradually separate over time and eventually become fully retractable. When this occurs, your son can be taught to clean this area on his own. Bathing is initially done with a washcloth or sponge and the baby laying on a towel. When the cord falls off and there is no more drainage from the cord area, bathing your baby is a small tub or sink is fine (remember to put a non-slip pad or washcloth on the bottom of the tub for safety). Most babies need only 1-2 baths a week, as parents clean the dirty areas frequently anyway (around the mouth, nose, neck, and diaper area). Avoid soap on the face, and use it sparingly on the scalp and body (unscented mild soaps are the least irritating and drying). Healthy ears are self-cleaning, and cotton-swabs are never recommended. Baby powder is also not recommended because of the risk of inhalation of the talc and subsequent lung irritation. Room temperature should be determined by what is comfortable for you (68-72 degrees is average), and we advise dressing your baby appropriate for the conditions. For example, if you like your house on the cooler side, an extra undershirt for baby is a good idea. Resist the urge to overbundle. If you take your baby outside (even if only from the house to the car), protect her from the elements (wind, cold, heat, sun, rain, blowing dirt/sand) with a lightweight blanket over her infant carrier. Visitors and outings really need to be limited in your baby's first few weeks of life. This is very difficult for most parents, as the adrenaline is pumping and you are so excited to show your baby to the world. But, having too many visitors to your house or taking your baby to someone else's house is surprisingly exhausting, for parents and babies. Plus, this immediate and often uncontrolled exposure to illness (illness that we adults consider mild and routine) can be serious to a newborn. Remember (and remind visitors) to wash your hands frequently, and always before touching or picking up your baby. Crying is a baby's way of communicating, and does not necessarily mean that the baby is angry. All babies cry, some much more than others. Eventually you will get to know your own baby's cries and be able to distinguish between the "feed me," "change me," "dress me," "hold me," and "leave me alone" cries. Each baby has a separate personality and temperament, which is often what determines how a baby will respond to changes or stimulation. Some babies are very mellow and barely squeak when really hungry. Other babies go into a full cry when their arms accidentally sneak out of the blanket a little. If you feel that your baby is crying inconsolably for more than an hour or two, or longer than you feel comfortable with, please call us. Familiarize yourself with Shaken Baby Syndrome and know who you would call for help if you needed a break from your baby's crying. Pacifiers and thumbs are topics sure to stimulate intense conversation with friends and relatives! In general, all babies need to suck to console themselves; they have no other way to calm down. To deprive a baby of this natural sucking need will deprive him or her of a natural reflex and will likely lead to fussiness. Some babies are very "oral," while others really only suck when feeding. There are certainly advantages and disadvantages of both the pacifier and thumb for these oral babies. Early on, babies usually cannot hold anything in the mouth without help (the pacifier pops right out, or the thumb gets yanked away when the baby startles). If the baby is breastfeeding, and is having a hard time getting the hang of it, pacifiers and bottles are not recommended until the nursing improves. When the sucking strength improves, the thumb is handy because it's always there (especially in the middle of the night). But, pacifiers can eventually be thrown away. Once teeth start coming in, both the pacifier and to a greater extent the thumbsucking can cause displacement of the teeth and an increase to the arch (roof) of the mouth. Lactation & Feeding 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

Wellness Visits This page coming soon. 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

6, 7 years Nutrition To help your body become bigger, smarter, stronger, and faster, you need to eat three meals a day and snacks of healthy foods. You can probably think of many healthy foods that you like. Believe it or not, the foods you eat today will help you feel better not just tomorrow but also in 50 years! Remember that your body never needs junk food (candy, cookies, chips, soda-pop). These things sure taste good but do not help you grow or stay healthy. They also can cause cavities in your teeth. It is O.K. to have these treats for special times, but your body does not need them every day. You only have one body, so give it the best! Every once in awhile, try a food you did not think you liked. Just like the rest of your body grows and changes, your taste buds in your mouth do, too. You just may surprise yourself by liking something new. And don't forget to tell your mom or dad if you would like to help with the shopping or in making your meals. They would probably be very happy to have your help. Wellness Visits Pretty soon you will notice that you will start losing your teeth and new ones will grow in their place. Maybe you have already lost some. These new teeth are called "permanent" teeth. That means that you will have them for the rest of your life. No new teeth will come after these, so brushing your teeth 2-3 times a day is very important. You should also see the dentist for a tooth check-up 2 times a year. Teeth Your body needs 10-12 hours of sleep a night so it can store up energy for the next day. Sometimes it is hard to go to bed if you are doing something fun, but you know you are giving your body the best. Sleep Continue to sit in a booster seat while in the car. This will help the seatbelt keep you more safe, and will actually be more comfortable. Also, remember to continue sitting in the back seat (until you are 12). Always wear sunscreen if you are playing outside (summer and winter). Always wear your helmet if you are riding your bike or scooter or skateboard or if you are roller-blading, even if no one else does. You will be the smart person. Never go near water (lakes, pools, or rivers) without an adult nearby. Remember to wear your life-jacket if you are ever on a boat (it's a Minnesota State Law). Never take medicine (including vitamins) without your parents helping you figure out how much you need. Some medicines could make you very sick if you take too much or if you really do not need them. You are in charge of your body and who touches you. The only people who ever touch or look at your private parts are doctors and nurses (in a clinic or hospital), or your parents (if you ask them to). Talk with your family about what you would do if you needed help. Do you know how to use the "911" emergency system? Does your family have a fire safety plan? What would you do if a stranger came up to you? What if a dog you did not know started running toward you? Safety Most people your age spend a lot of time in school, learning from the teacher and making new friends. You will be really good at some things, and will need to work harder at others. Everyone is like this, even grown-ups. If you always try your best you can be very proud of yourself. Have fun with your friends and your different activities (sports, music, scouts) but remember that your family also wants to spend time with you. You may not always agree with members of your family or their rules. The best way to solve problems is to use your words and tell others how you feel. We also recommend that you spend no more than 2 hours a day playing video games, computer games, and watching TV. Check with your parents on what TV shows and games are OK. We look forward to seeing you again for a check-up next year. By then you will be a few inches taller, a lot smarter, and have more fun stories about your life to share with us! Please try to be at least 10 minutes early for all of your check-ups. Do something that makes you happy every day! School & Family 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

Tips for keeping your little ones happy and healthy throughout their childhood years. Never smoke around your child, never allow people to smoke in your home, and monitor second-hand smoke exposure away from home. Avoid gun possession in your home. If you do have one, make sure the gun itself is safety locked, is physically locked up (out of sight), and the ammunition is locked in a separate location with a separate lock. Make sure you have the appropriate car seat, booster seat, or seatbelt for your growing child. All children should sit in the back seat until age 13. Don't forget the safety belt with grocery carts and strollers, too. Set your hot water heater at 120 degrees or lower and check the temperature every few months. Learn CPR and basic first-aid. Make sure all sleeping areas (as well as other living areas) have working smoke detectors. Check them every month to make sure they work, and change the batteries every six months. Devise a fire plan for your home, and involve your child when you feel he or she is old enough. Install a carbon monoxide detector near all sleeping areas. Teach caution, safety, and respect around animals, especially your own. Always wear bike helmets for biking, skateboarding, in-line skating and while riding a scooter. It all starts with parents modeling, then enforcing, this rule. Constantly supervise cooking areas, and avoid drinking anything hot while near your child. Constantly supervise your child near water (including bathtubs and buckets). Start swimming lessons as soon as your child is ready. Always wear lifejackets when near deep water or while boating (Minnesota State Law requires all children under age 10 to wear a lifejacket when on a boat). Never drink alcohol (even a small amount) and drive, whether or not your child is in the car. Start using sunscreen during infancy and continue forever. Avoid using commercially-available insect repellents containing the chemical DEET until your child is at least two months old. If your child is involved in organized (or pick-up) sports as he or she gets older, make sure the playing fields or courts are safe and well maintained. Also make sure that all protective equipment fits well and is in good condition. Never take medication in front of children, regardless of their age. Make sure all medications have safety caps and are never accessible (the most common danger areas are unlocked medicine cabinets, cupboards, drawers, and purses). Many household plants and garden flowers/plants are toxic even with minor ingestion. Research the ones you have or are planning to purchase and eliminate any that are poisonous. Keep matches and lighters out of sight and inaccessible. Teach children (starting at appropriate ages) correct use of scissors, knives, tools, and electrical appliances. Climbing on furniture is dangerous, and causes many early trips to the emergency room for stitches. Start the rule when your child is an infant — climbing is not allowed. Continually update your childproofing. Keep small items out of sight and reach, even long after you've allowed supervised permission to play with these items. Keep the Poison Control phone number (800-222-1222) handy next to all of your home phones and programmed in your cell phone. Make sure your child's sleeping area is safe. The windows should only slightly open, the crib or bed rails should meet federal safety standards, the crib mattress should be lowered sooner than you feel you need to, sharp furniture should be padded or removed from the room, and exposed light bulbs should be covered and lamps placed up high with no dangling cords. Avoid using your cell phone when driving. Minnesota State Law prohibits provisional license holders (license holders under age 18) and permit holders from using a cell phone while driving. Make sure you have a list of numbers you can call (this can include friends, relatives, neighbors, health hotlines, etc.) in the event you need help with your child. Circumstances can include everything from health emergencies to parental stress. Learn about Shaken Baby Syndrome and make sure your child's caregivers know what this is, also. Never, ever, shake or hit a child. Discuss strangers with your children frequently. Help them be comfortable yet cautious around people they do not know, and guide their behavior around strangers. Also remind them that they should always check with a parent before going off with another person (even if the person is known to your child) Regardless of your child's age, get prepared to answer questions or initiate discussion about sexuality and health risks (smoking, alcohol, drugs). It is recommended that your child's blood be tested for lead if he or she: lives in or attends daycare in a home built before 1950 lives in or attends daycare in a home built between 1950-1978 with peeling or chipping paint lives in or attends daycare in a home known to have lead water pipes or lead-based paint (on the woodwork, walls, or outdoor siding) lives or attends daycare near a heavily traveled highway lives or attends daycare near a long-term construction site has lived in a major metropolitan area within the past 10 years has a sibling or close daycare acquaintance with high blood lead levels Safety Through The Ages 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

18 months Nutrition Offer 3-4 meals and 1-2 snacks a day of carefully cut table foods, and include 12 to 16 ounces of whole milk. Your child can eat the same foods that you do, and will probably wish to feed herself without your help. Fingers will still work much better than utensils, but encourage appropriate use of spoons and forks. Having your child eat only in her high chair (for all meals and snacks) encourages her to be a part of the family meal, and avoids "grazing" habits and potential choking situations. This is an excellent time to take your child completely off the bottle if you have not already done so. Carrying a bottle around the house can lead to cavities in the front teeth, and is a difficult habit to stop. 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. Your responsibility is to provide healthy food choices and praise whatever is eaten. You cannot make your child eat. See our handout "Feeding Your Toddler, Age 1 to 3" if you are interested in more information on age-appropriate serving sizes and choices. Wellness Visits Parents are encouraged to brush their child's teeth with a toothbrush twice daily. Toothpaste is unnecessary, but a small dab may be just the incentive for a resisting toddler. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends routine dental visits starting now. Oral Health Most children sleep 10-12 hours each night and may take one nap during the day. Be gentle, but firm, with nighttime and nap routine. If your child tries to climb out of the crib, place the mattress of the floor and start looking for the bigger bed. The convenience of the crib is not worth the risk of a fall. Sleep Believe it or not, you have already started toilet training your child. Every time you acknowledge her diaper you are giving information about her body that will be used later when she learns to use the toilet. Consider the terms you will want her to use regarding elimination, and be positive ("wet", "dry", "urine" versus "messy", "stinky"). This is a good age to put the toilet chair in the bathroom, mainly to make it a normal part of the room and not something strange that shows up when the time is right for training. It is also helpful to decrease attention to diaper changing. There are many entertaining books out there regarding this topic! Elimination Toddlerhood is one of the most dangerous ages due to lack of good depth perception and inability to control impulses. Energy is relentless! Recheck all previously childproofed areas, including the garage and lawn. Children at this age have more courage and speed and often go down unguarded stairways or fall on or off sharp-edged furniture; constantly supervise. Keep the Poison Control Center (800-222-1222) phone number handy. Prevent drownings. Never allow your child near a pool, lake, bathtub, or bucket of fluids unless you are with her. Burns happen quickly at this age. Irons, curling rods, lamps, light bulbs, cigarettes, candles and hot liquids are all within reach of a busy, exploring toddler. Vacuum cleaners (in use) are also a hazard. 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 TWO. By then your child will be verbal and animated, bringing out all of your best traits! No vaccines are usually due at that visit. Please try to be at least 10 minutes early for all scheduled well-child visits. As the saying goes, don't sweat the small stuff. 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