developmental report card

Charlie had his 6 month checkup at the NICU developmental office yesterday and passed with flying colors! The developmental specialist, Diane, whom we worked with while in the hospital and Dr Bode both think he looks great and is progressing as a normal baby at this point.

He enjoyed all the new toys around him, showed off all he can do, and "talked" up a storm! The only thing Diane noted was that Charlie tends to step down with his toes initially rather than flat footed when he is stood up. She did not seem overly concerned though, so I guess it will just be something to keep an eye on.

His weight was up to 17 pounds 3 ounces. Dr Bode was happy with that and says she wants to just see a slow and steady gain from here. She said that his weight gain should taper off now that he is 6 months old. We were given the all clear and only have to return when we want to visit!

We were also given the spiel again on the necessity of keeping Charlie healthy as we are coming upon cold and flu season. Dr Bode has heard that this year's flu season is expected to be particularly rough especially with the resurgence of the swine flu once the kids all go back to school and the weather starts to change. If and when a vaccine is approved, we are going to give her a call and see whether or not she recommends it as something that is safe for Charlie to have. Regardless, we will have to be careful about going in crowds and will probably stick around home - not that we go out much with him now! :-) I guess there will be no grandma's house for Christmas this year!