2-Year Well Check-Up

Today Banner had his two-year well check-up at the doctor's office, and I have to say, I am one proud mama! I've been on a high all day after watching Banner handle himself so well at the office - AND after hearing such great stuff from our pediatrician. Last week, Banner was diagnosed with an ear infection, and when we went in for our appointment, he did NOT want to be there - cried the whole time the doctor examined him. (Although, I will say that it wasn't our normal doctor because his schedule was already booked when I called in to get an appointment... so that could have been the problem, on top of not feeling well.) This time was significantly different, thank goodness!

At home, to help Banner prepare for the visit, we have been playing with his new doctor's kit he got for his birthday. I did not tell Banner he was going to the doctor until this morning, about an hour before. And, when I told him about it, I used the doctor's name rather than saying "the doctor." I also told him that we would be telling Dr. B about his school bus birthday party, which really excited Banner. He couldn't wait to tell about his fun party... in fact, as soon as Dr. B walked in the exam room, Banner said, "School bus party!" We got a kick out of that. Banner rode with Sam to the office (we had to take two cars), and apparently the whole way there, Sam taught Banner how to say Dr. B's name really well. He knew exactly where we were and who we were going to see. It also may have helped that there were lollipops available when we left after having his ears checked last week - so this time, Banner knew to continue asking for one the whole time!

When we were called back from the waiting room, we saw our good friend, Avi, talking with Dr. B (Avi's a pharmaceutical sales rep). I think that also helped Banner feel more at ease because he saw a familiar face in the office. Banner did great with the nurse measuring and weighing him, and our wait for Dr. B went quickly. Sam and I filled out the development questionnaire, and Dr. B said according to all the information, Banner falls somewhere between 2 years, 4 months and 2 years, 10 months. We'll take it, since he's only 2 years, 0 months! :)

We talked to Dr. B about our new baby coming in September, how to best prepare Banner for his arrival, when to switch out of a crib, when to potty train, and how to "contain" Banner when he's being his typical, active, exploratory self. He mentioned that Banner is the type of child who makes him believe in "leashes." I immediately turned to Sam and said, "I said the same thing last night, didn't I?!" because it's so true. I'm not a believer in attaching a "leash" to your child ever - but when it comes to Banner's safety, especially when my hands are full with another baby and we are out and about, I'm almost envious of the parents who have the nerve to "leash" their kids! Dr. B said we may have to get one for Banner and let him see that he has a choice to either stay near Mommy (or Daddy) or wear the leash. Ha! I'm not so sure I'm on board with this leash idea at all, but I was glad to know I'm not alone in my thinking and worrying about his safety . . . . and that we have the doctor's blessing if we need to resort to that! But, in all seriousness, we just have one active, inquisitive, curious kid on our hands, and I will do anything I have to do to protect him.

Then, Dr. B examined Banner, this time on the exam table like a big boy. In the past, we have held Banner on our laps while Dr. B examined him. Watching Banner up on the table like a pro was so fun for me as a mom. He didn't need us holding him, answered Dr. B's questions, looked him in the eye, and followed his requests to turn his head or to open his mouth. It was only when Dr. B laid Banner down that he got a little anxious and cried for Daddy, but once Sam got next to his face and I stood at his feet, he immediately calmed down with a frowny, quivering chin but brave as ever. I had never seen Banner actually make this face before. It was as if he was doing everything in his power to hold it together without crying. He  seemed to be telling himself to control his crying, a trick I have never seen him do before! It both pleased me and broke my heart all at the same time.

The only shot Banner was due for today was a Hep A shot, and again, he surprised us with his bravery and courage! He only cried for about 5 seconds after the nurse injected the shot. I expected the crying to continue or for him to want a paci - a rare treat to have outside his bedroom. But, no! He was awesome, and Sam and I looked at each other with surprise and great satisfaction!

Then, we headed out for a blue lollipop, and Banner was a happy kid. And, we were happy parents! More than anything, I'm repeatedly grateful to know my child is healthy. I know not every child is as blessed, not every parent is as fortunate. I left the pediatrician's office with a renewed sense of gratitude and appreciation for the fact that my child is thriving, healthy, smart, and growing.

Here are his stats from today:
WEIGHT: 28.6 pounds = 55th percentile
HEIGHT: 35.75 inches = Either 65th or 85th percentile . . . the nurse wrote one thing, the doctor told us another - and when I look it up online, it's unclear which one exactly, so . . . . need to clarify
HEAD: 49.5 cm = 75th percentile (Can you say, "Thank you, Daddy!"?)