Quick Reference Guide

Minor bumps are common. Apply a cold compress for 10-20 minutes. Monitor closely for 24 hours.

• Seek immediate care if: Loss of consciousness, repeated vomiting, confusion, unequal pupils, clear fluid from nose/ears, severe worsening headache
• Wake baby once during first night to check responsiveness
• Avoid letting child sleep for 2+ hours right after a significant head bump
• Watch for: unusual irritability, difficulty walking, slurred speech

If child can cough, cry, or speak: Encourage coughing. Do NOT perform blind finger sweeps.

• Infant (under 1 year): 5 back blows between shoulder blades → 5 chest thrusts. Repeat cycle. If unconscious, begin CPR and call 911.
• Child (1+ years): Perform abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver). Stand behind child, make a fist above navel, grasp with other hand, pull inward and upward sharply. Repeat until object dislodges.
• If unconscious: Call 911, begin CPR, check mouth for object before each breath
• Call 911 if: Child becomes unconscious, turns blue, can't cough/cry, or if you're unsure

• Immediately: Run cool (not cold) water over burn for 10-20 minutes
• Remove any jewelry or tight clothing near the burn (before swelling)
• Cover loosely with clean, non-stick bandage or cloth
• Do NOT: Apply ice, butter, ointment, or break blisters
• Seek medical care if: Burn is larger than child's hand, on face/hands/genitals/joints, appears deep (white/charred), or caused by chemicals/electricity

• Mild reaction (hives, itchy eyes, mild stomach upset): Antihistamine per pediatrician's guidance
• Severe reaction / Anaphylaxis: Difficulty breathing, swelling of face/tongue, dizziness, vomiting — use EpiPen if prescribed, then call 911 immediately
• Keep child lying down with legs elevated (unless breathing difficulty — then sit upright)
• Always carry an action plan if child has known severe allergies
• Tell school/daycare about allergies and provide emergency medications

Key indicators your baby is well-fed:

• 6+ wet diapers per day (after day 5)
• 3-4+ bowel movements per day (first few months)
• Steady weight gain along growth curve
• Alert and active during awake periods
• Satisfied and content after most feeds
• Swallowing sounds during feeds

Crying peaks around 6-8 weeks and typically improves by 3-4 months. Colic is defined as crying more than 3 hours/day, 3+ days/week, for 3+ weeks. Tips:

• Try the "5 S's": Swaddle, Side/Stomach position, Shush, Swing, Suck
• Check for hunger, wet diaper, temperature, illness
• Try a baby carrier or gentle motion
• White noise can be very effective
• If baby seems ill (fever, vomiting, no wet diapers) — contact pediatrician
• It's okay to put the baby down safely and step away briefly if you feel overwhelmed

Most babies are ready around 6 months. Look for these readiness signs:

• Can sit up with minimal support
• Good head and neck control
• Shows interest in food (watching you eat, reaching)
• Lost the tongue-thrust reflex (pushes food out)
• Start with iron-rich foods: iron-fortified cereal, pureed meats, beans
• Introduce one new food at a time, wait 3-5 days
• Breast milk or formula remains primary nutrition until age 1

Most children show readiness between 18-30 months. Signs include:

• Stays dry for 2+ hours or during naps
• Shows awareness of urination/defecation (tells you, hides)
• Can follow simple instructions
• Can pull pants up/down with help
• Shows interest in the toilet or underwear
• Regular, predictable bowel movements
• Don't rush: Starting before readiness can prolong the process