Being a parent is one of the most important jobs you will ever have.
Here are some tools to help you along the way.
CDC’s Milestone Tracker App
From birth to 5 years, your child should reach milestones in how he plays, learns, speaks, acts and moves. You can download a free app from the CDC called the Milestone Tracker App to track your child’s development. The app will help you watch for changes as your child grows so you can let your child’s doctor know if there are any problems.
Download it free today on iOSExternal and AndroidExternal devices in English and Spanish.
Find a Doctor
It is very important your baby has a doctor as soon as possible to monitor development while also preventing, managing, and healing illness. If you need help finding a doctor for your baby or yourself, you can:
- Apply for Medicaid online if you do not have insurance;
- If you have Medicaid, call Arkansas Connect Care at 1-800-275-1131; or
- Find a Local Health Unit near you to get services for your baby such as shots or WIC.
Stress
If you are feeling stressed your child will feel the stress, too. It is important to take care of yourself to keep your baby healthy.
- It may be hard for you to play with and talk to your child if you are feeling sad or overwhelmed. This may be a sign of depression or worry. This happens to many people. The good news is this can be treated. Learn more.
- Find tips on how you can protect your child from harmful stress under “Resources”.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is the best way to feed your baby. Your local health unit has WIC staff who can answer your questions and help you get breastfeeding off to a good start. Call for an appointment today. We want to support you during this exciting time. Your Local Health Unit and WIC Clinic can help you with questions about shots for your child and breastfeeding support.
- Find your nearest health unit.
- You can also get help with breastfeeding 24 hours a day/seven days a week by calling the Breastfeeding Helpline at 1-844-344-0408.
- You can also visit the Arkansas WIC Breastfeeding Facebook page.
Safe Sleep
- A is for ALONE. Your baby should never sleep with you, other adults, children, or pets.
- B is for BACK. Place your baby to sleep on their back for every sleep, day or night. Once baby is able to comfortably roll over both ways (back to tummy, tummy to back), there is no need to move them if they roll over during sleep.
- C is for CRIB. Place your baby to sleep in a safety-approved crib, bassinet, or play yard. They should never sleep in an adult bed or on a couch or chair.
