Intermediate
Technical
IVT
anticipatory guidance
Preventive counseling provided to parents about expected developmental changes and safety issues.
Full Definition
Anticipatory guidance is age-appropriate counseling provided by healthcare professionals to parents and caregivers about what to expect in their child's upcoming development and behavior. This proactive approach includes discussion of safety measures, nutrition, sleep patterns, behavioral expectations, and developmental milestones. The goal is to prepare families for normal changes and prevent problems before they occur. Topics are tailored to the child's current age and developmental stage, helping parents understand and respond appropriately to their child's needs.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as compound modifier.
In Context
- "The pediatrician provided anticipatory guidance about toilet training during the 2-year-old's visit." — Well-child visit documentation
- "Anticipatory guidance should address car seat safety appropriate to the child's weight and height." — Clinical practice guidelines
Also known as
preventive counseling
developmental guidance
Don't confuse with
developmental screening
parent education