Regular well-child visits are crucial for monitoring your child’s growth and development. At Kilimani Children’s Clinic, we recommend regular pediatric checkups in the following stages

• 2 wks
• 6 weeks
• 10 weeks
• 14 weeks
• 5 months for Pediatric and Nutrition check-up
• 6 months
• 9 months
• 12 months for pediatric and  dental check- up

• Discomfort at the injection site: This is the most common side effect. Your child’s arm or leg where the shot was given might be a little sore, red, or swollen.
• Fussiness or irritability: Your child might be more cranky or cuddly than usual after their vaccination.
• Temporary change in appetite: Some children may eat less right after getting vaccinated.

• Soothe the injection site: Apply a cool compress, like a damp washcloth, to the area where your child received the shot. This can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Manage fever (if needed): If your child has a fever, you can give them a dose of paracetamol following the dosage instructions. Always check with your doctor before giving your child any medication, especially if they have any underlying health conditions.
• Plenty of rest and cuddles: Extra sleep can help your child feel better.
• In case you are concerned about any side effects your child experiences, please don’t hesitate to call our clinic.

KEPI (Kenya Expanded Programme on Immunization)

• Free: Provided by the government at public health clinics.
• Schedule: Requires a few more injections throughout the immunization period.
• Protection: Offers necessary immunity against core diseases.
• Side effects: May cause slightly more soreness, fever, and discomfort compared to “baby-friendly” vaccines.
• Pneumococcal vaccine: May offer slightly less subtype protection compared to some “baby-friendly” options.

“Baby-friendly” Vaccines

• Cost: Not free, require payment at private clinics. Insurance may cover some.
• Schedule: Fewer injections compared to the KEPI schedule.
• Protection: Offers the same core disease protection as KEPI vaccines.
• Side effects: May cause slightly less soreness, fever, and discomfort compared to KEPI vaccines.
• Pneumococcal vaccine: May offer broader sub-type protection compared to the KEPI option.

The Kenyan Ministry of Health recommends routine vitamin A supplementation for all children Starting at 6 months of age, Every 6 months thereafter and Continuing until the child reaches 5 years old.

1. Weight Gain Concerns:  My child isn’t gaining weight as expected. What should I do?

Healthy weight gain is crucial for a child’s development. If you’re concerned about your child’s growth, we recommend scheduling a consultation with one of our experienced nutritionists. They can assess your child’s growth pattern, discuss potential causes, and recommend personalized feeding plans or further evaluation if needed.

2. Breastfeeding Challenges: What resources are available to help with breastfeeding challenges?

Breastfeeding is a natural process, but challenges can arise. Our clinic offers dedicated lactation consultants who can provide support and guidance. 

3. Teething Development Delays: How can I handle teething development delays?

Teething timelines vary for each child. However, if you have concerns about a significant delay, consult with our pediatric dentist. They can assess your child’s development and rule out any underlying issues.

4. Brushing Baby’s Teeth: When should I begin brushing my baby’s teeth? Good oral hygiene starts early! A consultation with our pediatric dentist can help you establish a proper oral care routine for your baby, including when to start brushing and the appropriate techniques.
5. Speech Development Support: How can I support my child’s speech development?

Communication skills are essential. Our clinic offers speech therapy services. Schedule a consultation with our speech-language therapist for personalized guidance on promoting your child’s speech and language development.

6. Vision Concerns: My child seems to be having trouble seeing. What steps should I take to address this? Early detection and intervention are crucial for vision issues. We recommend scheduling an appointment with our pediatric ophthalmologist. They can perform a comprehensive eye exam and provide appropriate treatment plans if necessary.