The recommended vaccinations for infants and children include vaccines against diseases like measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, Haemophilus influenza type b, hepatitis B, varicella (chickenpox), pneumococcal infections, and meningococcal infections. The specific schedule may vary depending on the country and the child’s health status.

 A balanced diet is crucial for a child’s growth and development. Ensure they consume a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products. Avoid excessive sugary or processed foods. Consult a pediatrician or a nutritionist to tailor a diet plan based on your child’s age, health, and any dietary restrictions.

Children reach developmental milestones at different rates, but typically, most babies start walking between 9 and 18 months and start saying simple words around 12 months. However, variations are normal, and some children may reach these milestones earlier or later without any cause for concern.

 The amount of sleep required varies with age. Infants may sleep around 14-17 hours a day, toddlers about 11-14 hours, preschoolers 10-13 hours, and school-age children around 9-12 hours per night. These are general guidelines, and individual variations are common.

Common signs of an ear infection in children include ear pain, tugging or pulling at the ear, fever, irritability, difficulty sleeping, reduced appetite, and drainage of fluid from the ear. If you suspect an ear infection, it’s important to have your child evaluated by a pediatrician.

You can start cleaning your child’s gums even before their teeth come in, using a soft, damp cloth. Once the first tooth erupts, usually around six months, start brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste. By the age of three, a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste can be used.

To reduce the risk of SIDS, place your baby on their back to sleep, on a firm and flat sleep surface, and avoid using soft bedding, stuffed toys, or loose blankets in the crib. Keep the baby’s sleep area in the same room as the parent’s for at least the first six months but avoid bed-sharing.

Regular check-ups are essential to monitor a child’s growth and development. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends visits at ages 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 24, and 30 months, and annually from age 3 onwards. However, your pediatrician may have a slightly different schedule.