VISTA COMMUNITY CLINIC: Observing child, preventive care part of being responsible parents

| Sunday, July 6, 2008 12:16 AM PDT ∞

With the many responsibilities that come with parenting, it is difficult to define what exactly is a "responsible parent." One key factor is knowing your child. This happens when parents stop and observe, getting to know their child's unique personality, temperament, interests and challenges. It is also important to maintain preventive health-care schedules and to learn the developmental stages children will move through.

A child's personality and temperament can tell you how he or she might react to certain situations and how to best parent that child. Observe your children to determine where they need your guidance and when you can step back. As parents, we often address situations in the moment; these immediate responses tend to be emotion-driven. Wherever possible, allow your children to work things out on their own. You can always talk about the situation again later.

When was the last time you gave your child undivided attention? Children need attention, and they need to be engaged. Use their interests as positive reinforcement and give your child the attention he or she desires. Children tend to misbehave as a way of asking for attention or asking for help while engaging in an interesting activity. Could this be driving their behavior?

You may have heard the term "preventive care." Well, this term applies to children as well as adults. We cannot stress enough the importance of managing your child's health by maintaining regular immunizations, physicals and dental exams. Immunizations are scheduled at two, four, six, 12 and 15 months. Physicals are due shortly after birth and at two, four, six, nine, 12, 18, 24 months and yearly thereafter. Preventive health is a key factor in healthy development ---- a healthy child is a happy child.

It is important to understand your child's developmental stages. This will help you know whether he or she is reaching the appropriate developmental milestones. A delay can significantly affect your child's behavior. For example, children who are unable to speak have a tendency to begin biting and might exhibit other behavior changes. They may become aggressive towards other children. If this is the case, your pediatrician will be able to assess and refer your child for help as necessary.

"Developmental delays that are caught quickly are less likely to have serious consequences," says Dr. Kelly Motadel, medical director and pediatrician at Vista Community Clinic. "Regular checkups with a pediatrician can help make sure your child stays well and grows strong."

A prompt response to speech and other developmental delays can help your child be ready to learn in school and avoid academic problems. You will be the first to notice your child's changing behavior. If you are concerned, schedule an appointment with your child's pediatrician and be prepared to ask questions. He or she can conduct an assessment or refer your child to a specialist if necessary. For more about your child's developmental stages, visit www.howkidsdevelop.com.

Observing your child, and staying informed in regards to preventive healthcare and child development, are two key elements of responsible parenting. The Dads Club, Baby Connection and Rays of Health programs at Vista Community Clinic are committed to teaching responsible parenting through educational sessions.

Silvia Alcantar is a program manager in the Maternal Child Health Center at Vista Community Clinic. She is also a parent. Contact her at (760) 407-1220, Ext. 113.

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