When we talk about a child’s growth, we often think first about height and weight. These are two important parts of your child’s physical health. Each time you visit your doctor, your child’s growth since your last visit will be measured. You can access the growth charts your doctor uses on the following website: http://www.cdc.gov/growthcharts/.

Your child’s health is the foundation of all growth and development. Of course, your child’s health includes more than physical growth. Some other important parts of your child’s health include their cognitive (learning and thinking) development, social and emotional growth, and mental health. All aspects of health and development work together to form your child’s overall well-being.

This website has tip sheets you can use to help make sure that your child care provider is supporting your child’s health and well-being at every stage of development.

You are the most important person to support and promote your child’s health and wellness, so it is important to find quality health care services and professionals. Expect professionals to answer your questions, listen to your input, and be available. You know your child best, and are his or her primary advocate.