As parents, understanding the journey of your child’s growth and development can feel both exciting and overwhelming. From the first smile to the first steps, every milestone is a new achievement. However, with so much information available, it can be challenging to separate fact from fiction when it comes to paediatric care.
In this article, we ask Dr Misa Noda, an experienced Paediatrician at HMI Medical Centre to shed light on the critical role of monitoring development milestones and preventive care. She was an Associate Consultant in Paediatrics Medicine and Adolescent Medicine at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital where she played a pivotal role in overseeing ward activities conducted by junior doctors. Dr. Noda’s insights from her wealth of experience will empower you with the knowledge to support your child’s health and well-being from the earliest stages of life
1. Could you share more about yourself, your experience and why you chose to specialise in paediatrics?
I chose to specialise in paediatrics because I find children to be inherently joyful, positive, and eager to learn. I especially value the opportunity to educate young patients and their families about self-care and healthy living. By guiding parents on fostering good health practices from an early age, we can greatly enhance the children’s long-term well-being.
2. What are the key developmental milestones parents should be aware of in the first few years of their child’s life?
While each child progresses at their own pace, there are specific thresholds for developmental milestones that indicate potential delays. These milestones encompass four main areas: gross motor skills, fine motor skills, language development, and social interactions. A few months’ delay compared to peers can still fall within normal limits and may improve with practice or increased exposure. Delays may be primary or related to other health conditions. If you have any concerns, seek prompt medical advice from a Paediatrician.
3. Can you explain the importance of preventive care in paediatrics, and how early intervention can impact a child’s long-term health?
Preventive care in paediatrics is crucial for identifying developmental delays early, protecting children from infectious diseases through vaccinations, and managing chronic conditions before they lead to serious complications. During early childhood, caregivers play a significant role in implementing preventive measures. As children reach their teenage years, educating them about their health conditions and encouraging proactive management of chronic illnesses can reduce the risk of complications and hospitalisations in the future. For example, addressing obesity in teenagers by promoting healthy eating and regular physical activity, along with early screening for related conditions, can significantly lower the risk of developing type II diabetes, high cholesterol, or hypertension later in life.
4. Could you share some myths and misconceptions in the field of paediatrics?
- Myth 1: Vaccines cause autism – There is no scientific evidence linking vaccines to autism.
- Myth 2: Fever causes brain damage – Brain damage from fever only occurs if a child has an infection directly affecting the brain.
- Myth 3: Introducing allergenic foods early causes food allergies – Recent research indicates that early exposure to allergens, whether through breast milk or weaning foods, can actually help build tolerance and reduce the risk of developing food allergies.
Understanding your child’s development and well-being is essential in ensuring they thrive well in the future. Dr. Misa Noda’s expert advice highlights the importance of staying informed, proactive, and engaged in your child’s health journey. Whether it’s tracking developmental milestones, embracing preventive care, or debunking common myths, you can make a positive impact on your child’s life with the right guidance.
If you have concerns about your child’s development or simply want to ensure he/she is developing well, do consider booking an appointment at HMI Medical Centre. Established in 2018, HMI Medical Centre is Singapore’s first large-scale ambulatory care centre designed to make healthcare simple. Touching more than 30,000 lives per year, they offer a comprehensive suite of services including day surgery, endoscopy, general practice, health screenings, radiology, specialist outpatient clinics, and physiotherapy, all under one roof.
Their paediatric services cover a range of treatment options such as vaccinations, development assessments and management of child-related illnesses. Dr Misa Noda, who also speaks Japanese, will be able to offer personalised advice in a caring and child-friendly environment.
Prioritise your child’s well-being by visiting HMI Medical Centre’s website to learn more about the services provided and to book an appointment with Dr Misa Noda!
This post is in collaboration with HMI Medical Centre.
By Jasmine Chua.
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