Youve arrived at the pediatricians office. Suddenly you find yourself changing a diaper, mediating a conflict over a toy, and discussing the finer points of breastfeeding with a new mom all at the same time.

  The nurse announces your childs name and you and your children navigate the maze or rooms beyond the waiting area. After a wait in the exam room, the doctor arrives. 

  Finally youve got a few moments of the pediatricians undivided attention. All of a sudden you cant remember the questions you wanted to ask.

  Now what?

  Pediatrician Aimee Christian, M.D., offers these tips for making the most out of your childs pediatrician visit.

• Make a list of questions ahead of time. You might forget something. Its hard to concentrate, especially if you have young children.
• Write down important information such as what foods your child eats and drinks and the quantities he consumes.
• Bring snacks and toys to entertain your child. Everyone complains about the wait, Dr. Christian said. We dont have control over it; I know that people think we do, but we have no idea each day how many sick kids are going to walk in.
• Get your child dressed before he gets his immunization shots. Its hard to dress a screaming baby.
• Dont talk on your cell phone during the appointment.
• Focus on the child whose appointment it is. Dont take up time talking about another one of your children. Make another appointment for that sibling.
• Give your physician an opportunity to ask you questions. He or she is looking for specific information during the checkup. The other day I had a patient come in for a one-year-olds checkup and I couldnt get a word in. She was bragging so much about everything her child was doing. Let the physician say what she needs to say, Christian said.

  But most importantly, make sure you keep your appointments. Regular checkups are one of the most important things you can do to keep your child healthy.