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Home / Parenting, Kids & Teens / Quick guide to your infant’s first pediatrician visits

Quick guide to your infant’s first pediatrician visits

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Frequent checkups with a health care provider are an important part of your baby’s first few years. These checkups — often called well-child visits — are a way for you and your child’s health care provider to keep tabs on your child’s health and development, as well as spot any potential problems. Well-child visits also give you a chance to discuss any questions or concerns you might have and get advice from a trusted source on how to provide the best possible care for your child.

The benefit of seeing your child’s provider regularly is that each visit adds critical information to your child’s health history. Over time, you and the provider will get a good idea of your child’s overall health and development.

In general, the provider will be more attentive to your child’s pattern of growth over time, rather than to specific one-time measurements. Typically what you’ll see is a smooth curve that arcs upward as the years go by. Regularly reviewing your child’s growth chart can also alert you and the provider to unexpected delays in growth or changes in weight that may suggest the need for additional monitoring.

Each health care provider does things a bit differently, but here’s what will generally be on the agenda during your first well-child exams.

Body measurements

Checkups usually begin with measurements. During first-year visits, a nurse or your baby’s health care provider will measure and record your baby’s length, head circumference and weight.

Your child’s measurements will be plotted on his or her growth chart. This will help you and the provider see how your child’s size compares with that of other children the same age. Try not to fixate on the percentages too much, though. All kids grow and develop at different rates. In addition, babies who take breast milk gain weight at a different rate than do babies who are formula-fed.

Keep in mind that a child who’s in the 95th percentile for height and weight isn’t necessarily healthier than a child who’s in the fifth percentile. What’s most important is steady growth from one visit to the next. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s growth rate, discuss them with your child’s provider.

Physical exam

Your child’s health care provider will give your child a thorough physical exam and check his or her reflexes and muscle tone. Be sure to mention any concerns you have or specific areas you want the doctor to check out.

Here are the basics of what providers commonly check for during an exam:

• Head — In the beginning, your child’s health care provider will likely check the soft spots (fontanels) on your baby’s head. These gaps between the skull bones give your baby’s brain plenty of room to grow in the coming months. They’re safe to touch and typically disappear within two years, when the skull bones fuse together. The health care provider may also check baby’s head for flat spots. A baby’s skull is soft and made up of several movable plates. If his or her head is left in the same position for long periods of time, the skull plates might move in a way that creates a flat spot.
• Ears — Using an instrument called an otoscope, the health care provider can see in your child’s ears to check for fluid or infection in the ears. The provider may observe your child’s response to various sounds, including your voice. Be sure to tell the provider if you have any concerns about your son’s or daughter’s ability to hear or if there’s a history of childhood deafness in your family. Unless there’s cause for concern, a formal hearing evaluation isn’t usually needed at a well-child exam.
• Eyes — Your child’s health care provider may use a flashlight to catch your child’s attention and then track his or her eye movements. The provider may also check for blocked tear ducts and eye discharge and look inside your child’s eyes with a lighted instrument called an ophthalmoscope. Be sure to tell the provider if you’ve noticed that your child is having any unusual eye movements, especially if they continue beyond the first few months of life.
• Mouth — A look inside your baby’s mouth may reveal signs of oral thrush, a common, and easily treated, yeast infection. The health care provider might also check your baby’s mouth for signs of tongue-tie (ankyloglossia), a condition that affects the tongue’s range of motion and can interfere with a baby’s oral development as well as his or her ability to breast-feed.
• Skin — Various skin conditions may be identified during the exam, including birthmarks, rashes, and jaundice, a yellowish discoloration of the skin and eyes. Mild jaundice that develops soon after birth often disappears on its own within a week or two. Cases that are more severe may need treatment.
• Heart and lungs — Using a stethoscope, your child’s health care provider can listen to your child’s heart and lungs to check for abnormal heart sounds or rhythms or breathing difficulties.
• Abdomen, hips and legs — By gently pressing a child’s abdomen, a health care provider can detect tenderness, enlarged organs, or an umbilical hernia, which occurs when a bit of intestine or fatty tissue near the navel breaks through the muscular wall of the abdomen. Most umbilical hernias heal by the toddler years without intervention. The provider may also move your child’s legs to check for dislocation or other problems with the hip joints, such as dysplasia of the hip joint.
• Genitalia — Your child’s care provider will likely inspect your son’s or daughter’s genitalia for tenderness, lumps or other signs of infection. The provider may also check for an inguinal hernia, which results from a weakness in the abdominal wall.

For girls, the doctor may ask about vaginal discharge. For boys, the provider will make sure a circumcised penis is healing well during early visits. The provider may also check to see that both testes have descended into the scrotum and that there’s no fluid-filled sac around the testes, a condition called hydrocele.

Your child’s provider will likely ask you about your child’s eating habits. If you’re breastfeeding, the provider may want to know how often you’re feeding your baby during the day and night and whether you’re having any problems. If you’re pumping, the provider may offer suggestions for managing pumping frequency and storing breast milk. If you’re formula-feeding, the provider will likely want to know how often you feed and how many ounces of formula your baby takes at each feeding. In addition, the provider may discuss with you your baby’s need for vitamin D and iron supplements.

Bowel and bladder function

In the first few visits, your child’s health care provider will likely also ask how many wet diapers and bowel movements your baby produces a day. This information offers clues as to whether your baby is getting enough to eat.

Sleeping status

Your child’s health care provider may ask you questions about your child’s sleep habits, such as your regular bedtime routine and how many hours your child is sleeping during the day and night. Don’t hesitate to discuss any concerns you may have about your child’s sleep, such as getting your baby to sleep through the night. Your child’s provider may also help you figure out how to find rest for yourself, especially in the early baby months.

Development

Your child’s development is important, too. The health care provider will monitor your child’s development in the following five main areas.

• Gross motor skills — These skills, such as sitting, walking and climbing, involve the movement of large muscles. Your child’s health care provider may ask you how well your baby can control his or her head. Is your baby attempting to roll over? Is your baby trying to sit on his or her own? Is your child starting to walk or throw a ball? Can your toddler walk up and down steps?
• Fine motor skills — These skills involve the use of small muscles in the hand. Does your baby reach for objects and bring them to his or her mouth? Is your baby using individual fingers to pick up small objects?
• Personal and social skills — These skills enable a child to interact and respond to his or her surroundings. Your child’s health care provider may ask if your baby is smiling. Does your baby relate to you with joy and enthusiasm? Does he or she play peekaboo?
• Language skills — These skills include hearing, understanding and use of language. The health care provider may ask if your baby turns his or her head toward voices or other sounds. Does your baby laugh? Is he or she responding to his or her name?
• Cognitive skills — These skills allow a child to think, reason, solve problems and understand his or her surroundings. Your child’s provider might ask if your baby can bang together two cubes or search for a toy after seeing you hide it.

Vaccinations

Your baby will need a number of scheduled vaccinations during his or her first years. The health care provider or a nurse will explain to you how to hold your baby as he or she is given each shot. Be prepared for possible tears. Keep in mind, however, that the pain caused by a shot is typically short-lived but the benefits are long lasting.

Your child’s provider may talk to you about safety issues, such as the importance of placing your baby to sleep on his or her back and using a rear-facing infant car seat as long as possible.

Questions and concerns

During your son’s or daughter’s checkups, it’s likely that you’ll have questions, too. Ask away! Nothing is too trivial when it comes to caring for your baby. Write down questions as they arise between appointments so that you’ll be less likely to forget them when you’re at your child’s checkup.

Also, don’t forget your own health. If you’re feeling depressed, stressed-out, run-down or overwhelmed, describe what’s happening. Your child’s provider is there to help you, too.

Before you leave the health care provider’s office, make sure you know when to schedule your child’s next appointment. If possible, set the next appointment before you leave the provider’s office. If you don’t already know, ask how to reach your child’s provider in between appointments. You might also ask if the provider has a 24-hour nurse information service. Knowing that help is available when you need it can offer peace of mind.

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Family Life

AAP Schedule of Well-Child Care Visits

Parents know who they should go to when their child is sick. But pediatrician visits are just as important for healthy children.

The Bright Futures /American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) developed a set of comprehensive health guidelines for well-child care, known as the " periodicity schedule ." It is a schedule of screenings and assessments recommended at each well-child visit from infancy through adolescence.

Schedule of well-child visits

• The first week visit (3 to 5 days old)
• 1 month old
• 2 months old
• 4 months old
• 6 months old
• 9 months old
• 12 months old
• 15 months old
• 18 months old
• 2 years old (24 months)
• 2 ½ years old (30 months)
• 3 years old
• 4 years old
• 5 years old
• 6 years old
• 7 years old
• 8 years old
• 9 years old
• 10 years old
• 11 years old
• 12 years old
• 13 years old
• 14 years old
• 15 years old
• 16 years old
• 17 years old
• 18 years old
• 19 years old
• 20 years old
• 21 years old

The benefits of well-child visits

Prevention . Your child gets scheduled immunizations to prevent illness. You also can ask your pediatrician about nutrition and safety in the home and at school.

Tracking growth & development . See how much your child has grown in the time since your last visit, and talk with your doctor about your child's development. You can discuss your child's milestones, social behaviors and learning.

Raising any concerns . Make a list of topics you want to talk about with your child's pediatrician such as development, behavior, sleep, eating or getting along with other family members. Bring your top three to five questions or concerns with you to talk with your pediatrician at the start of the visit.

Team approach . Regular visits create strong, trustworthy relationships among pediatrician, parent and child. The AAP recommends well-child visits as a way for pediatricians and parents to serve the needs of children. This team approach helps develop optimal physical, mental and social health of a child.

More information

Back to School, Back to Doctor

Recommended Immunization Schedules

Milestones Matter: 10 to Watch for by Age 5

Your Child's Checkups

• Bright Futures/AAP Recommendations for Preventive Pediatric Health Care (periodicity schedule)

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Your baby's checkup schedule: What to expect at doctor visits

There are a lot of doctor visits in your baby's first few years, and they're all important! Your baby's pediatrician will monitor their growth and development, stay on top of their vaccinations, and answer your questions and concerns.

It can seem like you're always headed to the doctor, even when all is well with your baby. But there's good reason for all those appointments.

"There's so much that happens in the first year of life that it's important that nothing gets missed!" explains Chandani DeZure, M.D., a neonatal and pediatric hospitalist at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital/Stanford University Opens a new window in Palo Alto, California and member of the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board .

"Babies need to be developing and growing appropriately, eating well, and getting vaccinated to protect against diseases so they can thrive as they get older and be as healthy as possible. All this and more happens at regular well-baby checkups," says Dr. DeZure.

Checkups are also the perfect time to ask questions and raise concerns about your baby's sleep habits , crying , poop , breastfeeding , formula feeding , development milestones , and more.

Learn how to find a pediatrician for your baby .

What newborn doctor visits will my baby have?

In the first week, the doctor will want to check your newborn to make sure they're doing well. Then you'll have scheduled visits at 1 and 2 months.

A lot happens right after birth and while you're still at the hospital with your newborn . At birth, the medical team will assess your baby's health and assign an Apgar score – which evaluates your baby's heart rate, breathing, muscle tone, reflex response, and color.

They'll weigh your baby and measure your baby's length and head circumference . These numbers will be recorded on a growth chart , which will be used to keep track of your baby's growth at all future doctor's visits.

Your baby's progress along the growth chart is just one way to evaluate their health. "Growth charts are not intended to be used as a sole diagnostic instrument," explains the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Opens a new window (CDC). "Instead, growth charts are tools that contribute to forming an overall health picture for the child being measured."

At the hospital, your baby will get antibiotic eye ointment (to prevent dangerous eye infections) and a vitamin K shot (to help their blood clot normally and protect them from a rare but dangerous bleeding disorder). They'll also receive their first hepatitis B shot .

Your pediatrician or a pediatric hospitalist will give your newborn a complete physical at the hospital within 24 hours of birth. They'll examine your baby head to toe, checking their skin tone, reflexes, alertness, heart, lungs, and skin (for rashes and jaundice ).

If you're having your baby circumcised , that will be done a day or two after birth.

Your baby will also receive screening tests while at the hospital. These include tests for hearing loss , congenital heart defects , and metabolic disorders (such as PKU and sickle cell disease ). Screening tests are usually done between 24 hours and 48 hours after birth.

Read more about what happens to your baby right after birth .

Your baby's checkup schedule

Some pediatricians' schedules vary slightly, but the American Academy of Pediatrics Opens a new window (AAP) recommends babies get checkups at birth, 3 to 5 days after birth, and then at 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18 and 24 months. (Once your baby is a toddler and child, they'll have routine checkups at 30 months, 3 years, and annually after that.)

If you've gotten behind, talk with your child's doctor about a catch-up schedule. "It's particularly important for parents to work with their child's doctor or nurse to make sure they get caught up on missed well-child visits and recommended vaccines," says the CDC Opens a new window . "Making sure that your child sees their doctor for well-child visits and recommended vaccines is one of the best things you can do to protect your child and community from serious diseases that are easily spread."

At each visit, your baby's doctor will:

• Do a complete physical examination, checking your baby's eyes and ears, heart and lungs, head, body, belly, genitals, and hips and legs
• Weigh your baby and take their measurements (length and head circumference). The doctor will chart these numbers on your baby's growth chart and let you know how they're progressing.
• Ask about your baby's eating habits and number of wet and poopy diapers
• Ask about your baby's sleeping habits
• Watch how your baby responds to movement. They'll ask you if you've noticed anything unusual about your baby's eyes or the way they look at things.
• Watch how your baby responds to sounds. The doctor will ask if your baby responds to your voice and other sounds by turning in the direction of the sound.
• Run any appropriate tests (screening and diagnostic), depending on your baby's needs
• Give needed vaccinations
• Chat about your baby's developmental skills, including gross motor skills and fine motor skills , social skills , and language skills
• Answer your questions and concerns

Follow the links below for more detailed information about what to expect at each visit, but here are some highlights:

1-month doctor appointment

At the 1-month checkup , the doctor will check your baby's soft spots (fontanels) and the shape of your baby's head. They'll also review the results of your baby's newborn screening tests.

Your baby may also get their second hepatitis B shot. The first was probably given at birth, and the second shot can be given at the 1- or 2-month visit.

The doctor may also ask about your baby's head control and cooing. They'll also ask how you're doing and ask you some screening questions for postpartum depression . (They'll continue to monitor you for postpartum depression through your baby's 6-month checkup.)

2-month doctor appointment

At the 2-month visit , your baby will receive their first shots of DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis), Hib (haemophilus influenzae type B), IPV ( polio ), and PCV (pneumococcal disease), along with an oral vaccine for RV ( rotavirus ). 

The doctor will check your baby's posture and may ask about their head control, ability to push up , and whether they're smiling voluntarily yet.

4-month doctor appointment

Your baby's 4-month checkup will include another oral dose of the rotavirus vaccine and a second DTaP vaccine. They'll also receive the second dose of the IPV, Hib, and PCV vaccines. (Some offices have combination vaccines, so your baby may receive less pokes than they would if each vaccine were given individually.)

The doctor will screen your baby for iron-deficiency anemia and lead poisoning (by asking you questions about breast milk or formula intake and environmental exposures) and test for these if necessary. They may ask what sounds your baby's making and whether they're reaching for and grabbing things . And they'll check your baby's gums and refer you to a dentist to establish  dental care whenever the first tooth erupts .

6-month doctor appointment

At the 6-month checkup , the doctor may talk with you about your baby's readiness to start solids and other developmental strides, such as rolling over and babbling.

The third hepatitis B, DTaP, Hib, PCV, and IPV vaccines are typically given at 6 months, along with an oral rotavirus vaccine. Your baby can also get their first COVID vaccine now and, if it's flu season, they'll also get a flu shot . Your baby will need a second dose of the flu shot 4 weeks later.

9-month doctor appointment

At their 9-month checkup , your baby will catch up on any missed vaccinations (including a flu shot if it's flu season).

The doctor will check for any new teeth and ask you if your baby is crawling or scooting around, if they know any words , and if they can pick up objects with their thumb and forefinger.

They may remind you of the importance of babyproofing your home now that your baby is mobile.

12-month doctor appointment

At your baby's 12-month checkup , your baby's doctor will order tests to rule out iron-deficiency anemia. Depending on risk factors, they may also offer tests for tuberculosis and lead exposure , if your baby is at risk. And they may ask you if your baby points at things , says words, and stands on their own .

Your baby will also get a handful of vaccines:

• COVID, if the timing is right based on when your baby got their first shot
• Flu, if it's flu season and your baby hasn't been immunized yet.
• MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), which can be given between 12 and 15 months and again between 4 and 6 years
• Varicella (chickenpox), given between 12 and 15 months and again between 4 and 6 years
• Hepatitis A (HepA), which they can receive between 12 months and 23 months, with a second dose at least 6 months later)
• Hib vaccine. The fourth dose can be given now or anytime between 12 and 15 months.
• PCV. The fourth dose can be given between 12 and 15 months.

Some of these shots will be combined. And your baby's doctor may spread them out between this visit and your baby's 15-month visit.

15-month doctor appointment

Your child's doctor will give your baby a fourth dose of the DTaP vaccine (given between now and 18 months), and – if they haven't already had them – your baby may now get their Hib, PCV, MMR, hepA, and varicella immunizations.

Your child may also get a flu vaccine, if it's flu season, and/or a COVID vaccine, if appropriate.

The doctor may check your baby for new teeth and apply fluoride unless you have a dentist taking care of this. And they may check your child's blood pressure, hearing, and vision.

18-month doctor appointment

At the 18-month check-up , your child's doctor will make sure your toddler is caught up on any missed immunizations and give them another round of DTaP and hepatitis A vaccines. If your child has risk factors for anemia or lead poisoning, the doctor will screen for those.

And they'll ask about your toddler's sleeping, eating, potty-training readiness , walking , and ability to follow simple commands .

24 month doctor appointment

Your toddler's 2-year checkup is a good time to make up any missed immunizations and screen for anemia and/or lead poisoning if your child has risk factors. The doctor will probably ask your child to walk so they can check their gait and coordination.

Your child's doctor may ask about potty training and temper tantrums , and they may encourage you to take your child for a dental checkup if you haven't done so yet.

How can I prepare for my baby's doctor appointments?

Here are some tips:

Consider timing

If possible, schedule your visit at a time when your baby is usually happy (fed, and not on the verge of needing a nap ). If this time coincides with a time when the office isn't usually very busy, even better! This isn't always practical – doctor's offices don't always have appointment times that coincide with your preferences, and your baby may not be on enough of a schedule to make even an educated guess at the best time for them. But it's worth a try.

Dress (both of you) comfortably

Your baby will need to be undressed for their exam, so dress them in something that's easy off/easy on. (Practicality over cuteness today!) Make sure you're dressed for the appointment, too – in something comfortable and that you can easily nurse in, if you're breastfeeding . Bring a sweater for you and your child (or a blanket for your baby), in case the office is chilly (doctor's offices often are).

Pack thoughtfully

Before your appointment, make sure your diaper bag is stocked with everything you might need. This includes diapering supplies ( diapers , wipes , a change of clothes) and feeding supplies (a bottle if you're bottle feeding and snacks if your baby is eating solids), a blankie or other lovey , burp cloths , and a pacifier if your baby uses one. Bring your current insurance information and any other paperwork, too.

Jot things down

The doctor will ask you about your baby: the number of wet and soiled diapers they have each day, how many hours they sleep, and how much and often they eat. They'll ask about motor and language skills, too. When did your baby start rolling over, sitting up, and crawling? Are they babbling yet? It's a good idea to keep ongoing notes about these things, or jot them down before your visit.

Importantly, bring a list of questions you have. These visits are the perfect time to get them answered!

Make sure you tell the doctor about any concerns, too, no matter how small they seem. Do you wonder if your baby sometimes doesn't hear you or if they favor one side of their body when they crawl across the floor? Are you worried that your baby should be walking or talking by now or that they often wake up screaming ? 

Remember that you and the doctor are partners in managing your baby's health. Don't hesitate to give your perspective, and make sure your questions are addressed.

Learn more:

• Everything you need to know about baby poop
• How your baby's skull, skeleton, and bones develop after birth
• The importance of tummy time for your baby
• How to make shots less painful for your baby

Was this article helpful?

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BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies .

AAP. 2023. AAP schedule of well-child care visits. The American Academy of Pediatrics.  https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/health-management/Pages/Well-Child-Care-A-Check-Up-for-Success.aspx Opens a new window  [Accessed June 2023]

AAP. 2023. All about the recommended immunization schedules. The American Academy of Pediatrics.  https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/immunizations/Pages/Recommended-Immunization-Schedules.aspx Opens a new window  [Accessed June 2023]

AAP. 2023. Recommended childhood and adolescent immunization schedule for 2023. The American Academy of Pediatrics.  https://www.healthychildren.org/English/news/Pages/recommended-childhood-and-adolescent-immunization-schedule-for-2023.aspx Opens a new window  [Accessed June 2023]

AAP. 2023.Vaccines Opens a new window your child needs by age 6. The American Academy of Pediatrics.  https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/immunizations/Pages/Your-Babys-First-Vaccines.aspx Opens a new window  [Accessed June 2023]

AAP. 2022. Why your newborn needs a vitamin K shot. The American Academy of Pediatrics.  https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/prenatal/delivery-beyond/Pages/Where-We-Stand-Administration-of-Vitamin-K.aspx Opens a new window  [Accessed June 2023]

AAP. 2022. Your child's checkups. The American Academy of Pediatrics.  https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/Your-Childs-Checkups/Pages/default.aspx Opens a new window  [Accessed June 2023]

CDC. 2022. Growth charts. National Center for Health Statistics. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  https://www.cdc.gov/growthcharts/index.htm Opens a new window  [Accessed June 2023]

CDC. 2023. Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html Opens a new window  [Accessed June 2023]

Nemours KidsHealth. 2022. Your child's checkup: 1 month.  https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/checkup-1mo.html Opens a new window  [Accessed June 2023]

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What to Expect at Your Baby’s First Pediatrician Visit

Nervous about your baby's first pediatrician visit? Here's what to expect, from paperwork to meeting the doctor, plus tips for making the visit easier for you and your baby.

Your baby should have their first well-baby visit at the pediatrician's office three to five days after birth, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). After that, you'll be going in for checkups every few months over the course of the first year.

Since your baby's first pediatrician visit might be the first time your newborn leaves home, it's natural to feel some trepidation. But remember that this visit is often empowering and informative for new parents. Read on to learn what to expect during your baby's first pediatrician visit, from exams to vaccinations, as well as tips for timing and preparation.

There Will Be Paperwork

Be prepared to fill out paperwork when you arrive. Remember to pack the following:

• Your ID and health insurance card
• Information about your newborn's discharge weight
• Any complications during pregnancy or birth
• Your family's medical history

Knowing that your older child has asthma or your parents have diabetes, for example, focuses your pediatrician's attention on likely problems, says Christopher Pohlod, DO , assistant professor of pediatrics at Michigan State University's College of Osteopathic Medicine.

The Nurse Will Do Some Exams

A nurse will probably handle the first part of your baby's exam. They'll do the following:

• Weigh your naked baby on a scale
• Extend their limbs to measure height and width
• Use a tape measure to determine the head circumference

According to the AAP, it's normal for babies to lose weight after birth (up to 10% of their body weight). But they'll generally gain it back within a couple of weeks.

You'll Get to Know the Doctor

The pediatrician will examine your baby, educate you about their health, and answer any questions. One of the biggest components of the first pediatrician visit is developing a relationship with your child's new doctor. They will be a source of information, support, and troubleshooting in the many years to come.

They'll Check Your Baby's Neck and Collarbone

At your baby's first pediatrician visit, a health care provider will feel along your baby's neckline to check for a broken collarbone during the physical exam. That's because some babies fracture their clavicle while squeezing through the birth canal.

If your pediatrician finds a small bump, that could mean a break is starting to heal. It will mend on its own in a few weeks. In the meantime, they may suggest pinning the baby's sleeve across their chest to stabilize the arm so the collarbone doesn't hurt.

They'll Check Your Baby's Head

A pediatrician will also palm your baby's head to check for a still-soft fontanel. They will do this at every well visit for the first one to two years.

Your baby's head should grow about 4 inches in the first year, and the two soft spots on their skull are designed to accommodate that rapid growth. But if the soft spots close up too quickly, it can lead to a condition called craniosynostosis, which is when the tight quarters can curb brain development, and your child may need surgery to fix it.

They'll Check Your Baby's Hips

The doctor will roll your baby's hips to check for signs of developmental hip dysplasia, a congenital malformation of the hip joint that affects 1 in every 1,000 babies. You can expect this exam starting at your baby's first pediatrician visit and every visit until your baby can walk.

"The exam looks completely barbaric," says Vinita Seru, MD , a pediatrician in Seattle. "I tell families what I'm doing so they don't think I'm trying to hurt the baby."

If your pediatrician feels a telltale click from the hips, they'll order an ultrasound. Luckily, when dysplasia is found early, treatment is simple: The baby wears a pelvic harness for a few months.

They'll Check Your Baby's Reflexes

To check for a Moro reflex, a health care provider startles your baby. For the first 3 or 4 months, whenever something startles your infant, they'll fling their arms out as if they're falling. It's an involuntary response that shows your baby is developing normally.

This exam starts at the first pediatrician visit and continues through the first four well-child visits. A health care provider might also check whether your little one grasps a finger or fans their toes after you touch their foot.

They'll Check Your Baby's Pulse

By pressing the skin along the side of the baby's groin, a health care provider checks for your baby's pulse in the femoral artery, which runs up from your baby's thigh. Your pediatrician wants to see if the pulse is weak or hard to detect on one or both sides as that may suggest a heart condition.

You can expect this exam at the first pediatrician visit and all baby well visits. Around 1 in 125 babies are diagnosed with a heart defect every year in the US. This check is a simple way to screen for problems, says Dr. Seru: "When a heart condition is caught early, it can increase the likelihood of a good recovery."

They'll Check Your Baby's Genitalia

Starting at the first pediatrician visit and every well-baby visit after that, a health care provider will check your baby's genitals to ensure everything looks normal.

In about 1 to 3% of babies with testicles, the testicles don't descend into the scrotum before birth. While the problem usually corrects itself by 3 to 4 months of age, your doctor will keep an eye on things to see if your baby needs surgical assistance in the future. They will also check for signs of infection if your baby has been circumcised .

In babies with vulvas, it's not uncommon to find labial adhesions. Although the labia should open up over time, adhesions can shrink the vaginal opening and make your baby more prone to urinary tract infections (UTIs) . "If we know that they're there when your baby has a high fever, we look for a UTI first," says Melissa Kendall, MD , a pediatrician in Orem, Utah.

They'll Ask About Your Baby’s Feeding Patterns

The doctor will want information about your baby's feeding patterns. You don't need to keep super-detailed records, but you should have a general idea of the following:

• How often your baby is eating
• How long they feed (if nursing)
• How much they consume (if bottle-feeding)

This is an excellent time to raise concerns or questions about latching, formula brands, and other feeding issues.

They'll Check Your Baby’s Digestive System

You should have a general idea of how often you change your baby's diapers each day. If your doctor knows the consistency, frequency, and color of your baby's poop , they can better assess their digestive system and nutrient absorption.

They'll Ask About Your Baby's Sleeping Patterns

A health care provider will also probably inquire about sleeping patterns at your first pediatrician visit. They'll also make sure you're following safe sleep practices to help reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

They'll Review the Childhood Vaccination Schedule

Hospitals usually give babies their first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine shortly after birth, but if your baby was born at home or at a birth center, they might receive it at their first pediatrician visit.

Most vaccinations start when your baby is 2 months old, and a health care provider might review the vaccine schedule with you so you're prepared for the many vaccines your baby will receive in the months ahead.

There Will Be Time for Questions

You will cover a lot of ground during your baby's first pediatrician visit. Ask the doctor to slow down, repeat, or clarify information if needed. It's also wise to come prepared with any questions you have.

Here are some examples:

• Is this behavior normal?
• Is my baby eating enough?
• Should their stool look like that?
• When should I schedule the next appointment?
• What should I expect in the next few days and weeks?

When you have a written list of talking points, you won't worry about your mind going blank if your baby starts to fuss, says Dr. Pohlod.

You'll Schedule Your Next Appointment

The lineup of well-baby checkups during the first year includes at least a half dozen more pediatrician visits.

Recommended Baby Checkup Schedule

Here is a quick-glance list of what ages the AAP recommends that your child be seen for well-child pediatrician visits through their second year:

• 3 to 5 days old
• 1 month old
• 2 months old
• 4 months old
• 6 months old
• 9 months old
• 12 months old
• 15 months old
• 18 months old
• 24 months old

At first glance, the recommended number of checkups may seem like a lot. But trust the process: This schedule was designed to closely monitor your baby's growth and development to ensure their health and well-being.

The checkups, depending on the age of your baby, will include measurements, sensory screening, and developmental health, which include social, behavioral, and mental health. It will also include vaccinations, oral health, and advice for parents and caregivers.

Frequent appointments with your baby's health care provider are also the best way to get personalized expert answers to your questions about your baby. Ultimately, it's important to be comfortable with your doctor, and seeing them frequently in the first year helps you develop a relationship you may have for years to come.

When you schedule your next appointment, ask about the office's hours of operation, billing policies, and how after-hours communication works. Keep the doctor's phone number handy, and be informed of what to do and who to contact in an emergency or when you have a question.

Tips for Your Baby's First Pediatrician Visit

Leaving the house with a newborn isn't easy, and it can be especially stressful when you're on a timetable (like when you're trying to make it to a scheduled appointment). But your baby's first pediatrician visit doesn't have to be super stressful. Here are some tips for smooth sailing:

• Plan your time. Ask for an appointment during the least busy part of the day. You can also see if a health care provider has specific time slots dedicated to seeing newborns. Expect the visit to take about 25 minutes, but plan for waiting and setbacks as well.
• Bring a support person. Consider bringing your partner or another caregiver to your baby's first doctor appointment. Two people can more effectively care for the baby, remember the doctor's advice, and recall questions you plan to ask.
• Dress your baby with the exam in mind. Since the doctor will examine your baby's entire body, dress them in easy-on, easy-off clothing or even just a diaper and comfortable blanket if weather permits.
• Be prepared, but pack light. Definitely bring a change of clothes, extra diapers, wipes, pacifiers, feeding supplies, and other necessities, but try not to overpack. Ultimately, "warmth, cuddling, loving, and reassuring voices are more helpful than a stuffed animal" at a newborn exam, says Brian MacGillivray, MD, a family medicine specialist in San Antonio.
• Wait in the car, if you can. If you attend the appointment with another person, send them inside to fill out paperwork while you wait in the car with the baby. This limits your newborn's exposure to germs. Some offices even have systems in place that allow you to fill out the paperwork online, wait in your car, and receive a call or text when it's time to go in.
• Keep your distance from others. If you must sit in the waiting room, have your baby face the corner. According to  Mary Ellen Renna, MD , a pediatrician from Jericho, New York, the chances of catching sickness are lower if you maintain a 3-foot radius from others.

AAP Schedule of Well-Child Care Visits . American Academy of Pediatrics . 2023.

Weight Loss . The American Academy of Pediatrics . 2020.

Clavicular Fractures in Newborns: What Happens to One of the Commonly Injured Bones at Birth? . Cureus . 2021.

Facts About Craniosynostosis . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . 2023.

Developmental Dislocation (Dysplasia) Of the Hip (DDH) . American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons . 2022.

Moro Reflex . StatPearls . 2023.

A five (5) chamber heart (Cor Triatriatum) in Infancy: A rare congenital heart defect .  Niger Med J . 2013.

Undescended Testicles: What Parents Need To Know . American Academy of Pediatrics . 2022.

Periodicity Schedule . American Academy of Pediatrics . 2023.

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What to Expect At A Well Child Visit

Going to the doctor with your new baby may feel scary—but we’re here to help! Here’s what to expect at a well child visit (plus, a checklist of everything to bring along).

What is an early well child visit?

It’s early check-in with your baby’s pediatrician to make sure they are healthy and seeing all signs of typical development. It is a great place to ask questions, detect and treat any delays, and help parents feel best prepared to care for their child.

When should a well-baby visit take place?

First and foremost, follow the instructions of your doctor. They will let you know when visits should take place for your baby.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that most babies have their first doctor visit when they are 3 to 5 days old. After that, the AAP recommends well-baby visits in the first year at 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, and 12 months. See the list of check-in ages here .

What should you plan to discuss?

The doctor will be checking in on your child’s health, development, and overall well-being. Therefore, doctors will ask questions about their development and functioning.

• They will make sure baby is doing activities such as Tummy Time , remaining calm during diaper changes, etc.
• They will make sure baby is sleeping safely and getting enough sleep .
• They will check in on your child’s motor function .
• They will ask about your child’s feeding
• They may ask you if you’ve noticed any delays or issues in your child’s day-to-day activities. You can always visit our age pages to read about the milestones and abilities your child should reach- -and any signs of delay. If there’s something you want to bring to your child’s healthcare provider sooner than their next well-child visit, you can make an appointment at any time.
• They will be checking in on you as well, to make sure you’re informed on how to best care for your baby, so don’t be afraid to ask them questions about your baby’s care.

Remember that early intervention is key to prevention of further delays and complications—so it is always best to tell the doctor if you’ve seen anything concerning, or if your child is having trouble reaching a certain milestone. If something seems delayed or if you think your child might need extra help, trust your instincts and ask your doctor for their input!

Watch this video to learn more!

Your well-baby visit checklist

Before the visit:.

• Print out and review the Pathways.org Ability and Milestone Checklists . Check your baby to see if they are meeting their developmental milestones.
• If there are any that they are not meeting, just make a note of it! Just be sure to ask your doctor about it at the visit.
• Speak to any caregivers for your baby to see if they have noticed anything in your child that should be brought up to the doctor.

For the visit:

• Your baby needs to be there, as well as at least 1 parent. Your doctor will have questions about how your baby is doing, so it’s recommended that the parent present can accurately answer those questions.
• Bring your checklists with in case any questions come up about their abilities and milestones.
• Bring a pen and notebook, to write down any important information.
• Write down any questions you may have and bring them with the doctor.

Want to learn more about baby’s development and track their milestones?

Download the free pathways.org baby milestones app .

Track your child’s milestones here!

• 0-3 month milestones
• 4-6 month milestones
• 7-9 month milestones
• 10-12 month milestones
• 13-18 month milestones
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• 2-3 year milestones

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What Happens During Baby’s First Newborn Checkup?

Baby will have quite a few pediatrician’s visits during their first year of life—but when will their first one be following birth? And what exactly happens at that first newborn appointment? Keep reading to get the lowdown from pediatricians on what to expect, questions to ask and how to prep for the big visit.

When Do Newborns Have Their First Doctor’s Appointment?

Baby gets a pretty thorough examination in the hospital nursery following birth, so when does their first official newborn checkup occur? They’ll have their first newborn appointment within a day or two after going home from the hospital, says Jessica Madden , MD, FAAP, IBCLC, a board-certified pediatrician and medical director of Aeroflow Breastpumps . This usually equates to day 3 or 4 of life for babies born vaginally and day 5 or 6 for those born via C-section . For babies born at home , Madden says their first newborn appointment should take place within the first 24 hours of life.

What Happens at Baby’s First Newborn Appointment?

Baby’s first visit will be incredibly comprehensive, and there are two important things your provider will look at: baby’s weight and any signs of jaundice. “This first visit is crucial, because newborns are at risk for weight loss and jaundice in the first few days of life,” says Soniya Mehra , MD, MPH, a pediatrician with Stanford Medicine Children’s Health and Bayside Medical Group in Fremont, California. They’ll also review baby’s birth and screen you for postpartum depression via a questionnaire. Finally, they’ll go over infant feeding and sleep needs, as well as answer any questions you may have.

Baby’s physical examination at their newborn checkup

According to both experts, during baby’s first pediatric checkup, your provider will examine your little one head-to-toe, including:

• Feeling their head and belly
• Checking their eyes, nose, mouth and ears
• Listening to baby’s heart and lungs
• Checking baby’s back and diaper area
• Checking baby’s newborn reflexes (such as rooting and sucking )
• Checking their hips for dysplasia

Your provider will also measure baby’s weight, length and head size for their growth chart . While newborn weight loss following birth is common, your pediatrician will want to ensure they haven’t lost more than 10 percent of their birth weight, Madden explains. (Baby will start to regain weight within their first two weeks of life, the American Pregnancy Association notes.)

Plus, they’ll want to assess how well baby’s reacting to noises and sounds. Baby’s hearing is tested at the hospital following birth. But if baby didn’t pass their hearing test in the hospital nursery, your pediatrician will want to ensure that an “outpatient audiology follow-up for repeat hearing testing is in place,” Madden adds.

Jaundice screening at the first newborn checkup

As noted, baby will also be screened for jaundice, a condition caused by high levels of bilirubin—a yellow pigment in bile that naturally occurs as old red blood cells are broken down and processed through the liver, per Cleveland Clinic . According to March of Dimes , up to 60 percent of newborns experience some level of jaundice. For this reason, pediatricians look for any signs and screen all newborns’ bilirubin levels with a noninvasive skin test (known as transcutaneous bilirubin) or a blood bilirubin test, Mehra says. If the results are concerning, baby may be hospitalized to decrease risk of brain damage. While this sounds scary, know that when caught and treated quickly, jaundice is usually no big deal.

Sleep assessment at the first newborn checkup

It’s true what they say: Newborns pretty much only eat, sleep and poop for the first few weeks of life. “Since newborns are so young during this visit, there aren’t really any developmental milestones to measure,” Madden says. However, your pediatrician will want to hear about how well baby is sleeping. Specifically, your provider will want to discuss:

• How long baby’s able to sleep between feedings
• Where baby sleeps
• If you’re practicing safe sleep habits
• Ways to reduce the risk of SIDS

Along with sleep, they may also discuss other aspects of baby’s safety, including proper car seat use , avoiding tobacco smoke and ensuring parents and caregivers are up to date on their vaccinations.

Nutritional assessment at the first newborn checkup

Another important topic you’ll get lots of questions about at baby’s first checkup is their feeding habits and preferences. The experts note your pediatrician will want to know:

• If baby’s breastfeeding and, if so, for how long per session and how often
• How well baby’s latching
• If you hear baby swallow during feeds
• Whether you pump milk
• If you’re experiencing any breastfeeding problems or pain
• How baby’s formula is prepared
• How many ounces of formula baby drinks and how often
• How many diapers baby goes through in 24 hours
• How many times baby pees and poops, as well as what baby’s poop looks like
• If you’ve noticed any negative reactions to their formula or breast milk

All of this helps providers “get an idea if baby is getting adequate intake for their growth and hydration, and if lactation assistance is needed,” Mehra says.

Do Newborns Get Shots at Their First Appointment?

Most newborns won’t get vaccinations at this visit, as they’ll have already gotten their first hepatitis B vaccine at the hospital following birth. (The second dose is given at the one-month checkup .) Mehra adds that baby may also get their RSV vaccine at this appointment if it’s cold and flu season, if their mother didn’t get it during pregnancy and if it wasn’t administered at the hospital following birth.

If baby does get a shot at this appointment, they may experience some pain, redness and swelling at the injection site, Mehra says, adding, they may also be sleepy, clingy or develop a mild fever in the first 24 to 48 hours after. However, if your newborn develops a fever of 100.4 or more, and acts fussier than normal, let your provider know.

Questions to Ask at Baby’s First Newborn Appointment

With a tiny new baby at home, it’s likely you’ll have tons of questions at baby’s first appointment—and you should feel empowered to ask them! “I recommend parents come to the visit with any questions they have, as experience and knowledge about newborns vary among parents,” Mehra says. “Ask your doctor for any trusted sources for common questions; how to email questions and photos; plan for after-hours concerns; and what to do in an emergency situation.”

Below, both experts and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) note some common topics parents ask about at baby’s first newborn appointment:

• Any and all questions related to sleeping and feeding
• Upcoming vaccines and baby’s vaccination schedule
• Whether baby needs vitamin D drops
• When baby can start traveling or being in public spaces
• Questions on baby’s poop and color
• How to best support baby’s head
• Baby’s vision development
• When to start tummy time
• How many diapers baby should be going through
• How long formula or breast milk is good for once made or pumped
• Baby’s umbilical cord care
• How often to bathe newborns
• How to safely check a rectal temperature

How to Prepare For Baby’s First Newborn Appointment

When it comes to preparing for baby’s first newborn appointment, you can expect the appointment to take anywhere from 30 minutes up to an hour, Madden says. Since you may need to undress baby for part of the exam, be sure to put them in comfortable, but easily removable layers, such a wrap shirt or pajamas. In terms of what to bring, experts recommend a diaper bag filled with changing and feeding supplies, a list of questions, baby’s vaccine card and a copy of their hospital discharge papers (just in case the hospital hasn’t sent them to your pediatrician’s office yet).

When Will Baby’s Next Check Up Be?

Baby’s next checkup really depends on how well they’re doing, as well as any concerns and follow-ups needed. “For example, a newborn with significant weight loss may be seen in one to two days. A newborn with significant jaundice may be seen in one day,” Mehra says. Without follow-ups or concerns, newborns sometimes are scheduled for a checkup at 2 weeks, but it isn’t always necessary if they’re doing well, Madden says. Beyond the two-week checkup, baby’s next newborn checkup will be at one month old .

In the meantime, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor with any questions at any point following baby’s birth. “Your baby is getting to know you, and you’re adjusting to caring for a new family member. Lean on your doctor for knowledge and support,” Mehra says. And don’t forget to take care of yourself, too.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

Plus, more from The Bump:

Baby’s Checkup Schedule

What Baby’s First Day Home Is Really Like

What to Expect at Baby’s 2 Month Checkup

Jessica Madden , MD, IBCLC, is a board-certified pediatrician, lactation consultant and neonatologist at Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio. She also currently serves as the medical director of Aeroflow Breastpumps , as well as the founder of Primrose Newborn Care. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame and her medical degree from Ohio State University. She completed her residency in pediatrics at the University of Massachusetts.

Soniya Mehra , MD, MPH, is a pediatrician with Stanford Medicine Children’s Health and Bayside Medical Group in Fremont, California. She completed her medical degree at the University of Missouri’s School of Medicine Registrar and her residency at UCSF Fresno in California.

American Pregnancy Association, Average Newborn Weight

Cleveland Clinic, Bilirubin Test , January 2023

March of Dimes, Newborn jaundice , January 2024

Healthy Children (American Academy of Pediatrics), 1st Week Checkup Checklist: 3 to 5 days old , September 2021

Learn how we ensure the accuracy of our content through our editorial and medical review process .

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Doctor Visits

Make the Most of Your Baby’s Visit to the Doctor (Ages 0 to 11 Months)

Take Action

Babies need to go to the doctor or nurse for a “well-baby visit” 6 times before their first birthday.

A well-baby visit is when you take your baby to the doctor to make sure they’re healthy and developing normally. This is different from other visits for sickness or injury.

At a well-baby visit, the doctor or nurse can help catch any problems early, when they may be easier to treat. You’ll also have a chance to ask any questions you have about caring for your baby.

Learn what to expect so you can make the most of each well-baby visit.

Well-Baby Visits

How often do i need to take my baby for well-baby visits.

Babies need to see the doctor or nurse 6 times before their first birthday. Your baby is growing and changing quickly, so regular visits are important.

The first well-baby visit is 2 to 3 days after coming home from the hospital, when the baby is about 3 to 5 days old. After that first visit, babies need to see the doctor or nurse when they’re:

• 1 month old
• 2 months old
• 4 months old
• 6 months old
• 9 months old

If you’re worried about your baby’s health, don’t wait until the next scheduled visit — call the doctor or nurse right away.

Child Development

How do i know if my baby is growing and developing on schedule.

Your baby’s doctor or nurse can help you understand how your baby is developing and learning to do new things — like smile or turn their head to hear your voice. These are sometimes called “developmental milestones.”

At each visit, the doctor or nurse will ask you how you’re doing as a parent and what new things your baby is learning to do. 

By age 2 months, most babies:

• Lift their head when lying on their stomach
• Look at your face
• Smile when you talk to them
• React to loud sounds

See a complete list of milestones for kids age 2 months .

By age 4 months, most babies:

• Bring their hands to their mouth
• Make cooing sounds
• Hold toys that you put in their hand
• Turn their head to the sound of your voice
• Make sounds when you talk to them

See a complete list of milestones for kids age 4 months .

By age 6 months, most babies:

• Lean on their hands for support when sitting
• Roll over from their stomach to their back
• Show interest in and reach for objects
• Recognize familiar people
• Like to look at themselves in a mirror

See a complete list of milestones for kids age 6 months . 

By age 9 months, most babies:

• Make different sounds like “mamamama” and “bababababa”
• Smile or laugh when you play peek-a-boo
• Look at you when you say their name
• Sit without support

See a complete list of milestones for kids age 9 months . 

What if I'm worried about my baby's development? 

Remember, every baby develops a little differently. But if you’re concerned about your child’s growth and development, talk to your baby’s doctor or nurse. 

Learn more about newborn and infant development .

Take these steps to help you and your baby get the most out of well-baby visits.

Gather important information.

Take any medical records you have to the appointment, including a record of vaccines (shots) your baby has received and results from newborn screenings . Read about newborn screenings .

Make a list of any important changes in your baby’s life since the last doctor’s visit, like:

• Falling or getting injured
• Starting daycare or getting a new caregiver

Use this tool to  keep track of your baby’s family health history .

What about cost?

Under the Affordable Care Act, insurance plans must cover well-child visits. Depending on your insurance plan, you may be able to get well-child visits at no cost to you. Check with your insurance company to find out more.

Your child may also qualify for free or low-cost health insurance through Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Learn about coverage options for your family.

If you don’t have insurance, you may still be able to get free or low-cost well-child visits. Find a health center near you and ask about well-child visits.

To learn more, check out these resources:

• Free preventive care for children covered by the Affordable Care Act
• How the Affordable Care Act protects you and your family
• Understanding your health insurance and how to use it [PDF - 698 KB]

Ask Questions

Make a list of questions to ask the doctor..

Before the well-baby visit, write down 3 to 5 questions you have. Each well-baby visit is a great time to ask the doctor or nurse any questions about:

• How your baby is growing and developing
• How your baby is sleeping
• Breastfeeding your baby
• When and how to start giving your baby solid foods
• What changes and behaviors to expect in the coming months
• How to make sure your home is safe for a growing baby

Here are some questions you may want to ask:

• Is my baby up to date on vaccines?
• How can I make sure my baby is getting enough to eat?
• Is my baby at a healthy weight?
• How can I make sure my baby is sleeping safely — and getting enough sleep?
• How can I help my baby develop speech and language skills?
• Is it okay for my baby to have screen time?
• How do I clean my baby's teeth?

Take a notepad, smartphone, or tablet and write down the answers so you can remember them later.

Ask what to do if your baby gets sick.

Make sure you know how to get in touch with a doctor or nurse when the office is closed. Ask how to reach the doctor on call, or if there's a nurse information service you can call at night or on the weekend.

What to Expect

Know what to expect..

During each well-baby visit, the doctor or nurse will ask you about your baby and do a physical exam. The doctor or nurse will then update your baby’s medical history with all of this information.

The doctor or nurse will ask questions about your baby.

The doctor or nurse may ask about:

• Behavior — Does your baby copy your movements and sounds?
• Health — How many diapers does your baby wet each day? Does your baby spend time around people who are smoking or using e-cigarettes (vaping)?
• Safety — If you live in an older home, has it been inspected for lead? Do you have a safe car seat for your baby?
• Activities — Does your baby try to roll over? How often do you read to your baby?
• Eating habits — How often does your baby eat each day? How are you feeding your baby?
• Family — Do you have any worries about being a parent? Who can you count on to help you take care of your baby?

Your answers to questions like these will help the doctor or nurse make sure your baby is healthy, safe, and developing normally.

Physical Exam

The doctor or nurse will also check your baby’s body..

To check your baby’s body, the doctor or nurse will:

• Measure height, weight, and the size of your baby’s head
• Take your baby’s temperature
• Check your baby’s eyes and hearing
• Check your baby’s body parts (this is called a physical exam)
• Give your baby shots they need

Learn more about your baby’s health care:

• Read about what to expect at your baby’s first checkups
• Find out how to get your baby’s shots on schedule

Content last updated March 30, 2023

Reviewer Information

This information on well-baby visits was adapted from materials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health.

Reviewed by: Sara Kinsman, M.D., Ph.D. Director, Division of Child, Adolescent, and Family Health Maternal and Child Health Bureau Health Resources and Services Administration

Bethany Miller, M.S.W. Chief, Adolescent Health Branch Maternal and Child Health Bureau Health Resources and Services Administration

Diane Pilkey, R.N., M.P.H. Nursing Consultant, Division of Child, Adolescent, and Family Health Maternal and Child Health Bureau Health Resources and Services Administration

September 2021

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The 1-Month Well-Baby Visit

Medical review policy, latest update:, the physical checkup, developmental milestones, read this next, 1-month shots, questions to ask your doctor, screening for postpartum depression.

If you’re not sure whether you’ve had the screening, or if you are concerned that you or your partner has symptoms of PPD or another mood disorder, ask the pediatrician, an OB/GYN or another practitioner for help as soon as possible.

What to Expect the First Year , 3rd edition, Heidi Murkoff. WhatToExpect.com, When and How Babies Lift Their Heads Up , October 2021. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Vaccines for Your Children: Vaccine (Shot) for Hepatitis B , August 2019. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Screening for Perinatal Depression , October 2018. Pediatrics ,  Incorporating Recognition and Management of Perinatal Depression Into Pediatric Practice , January 2019.

Go to Your Baby's Age

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The Very Best Tips for Visiting a New Baby

How to make your first visit with a newborn such a smashing success that parents will beg you to return., by babylist staff.

It finally happened. You got the news you’ve been waiting for for months.

The new baby has been born!

Your first instinct might be to find out exactly when the parents can bring their baby home from the hospital so you can plan your arrival exactly 30 seconds later. After all, seeing a new baby is thrilling!

Before you make any plans, remember that new parents have just been through a lot. They may also be sleep-deprived and overwhelmed. And new moms are still physically trying to recover while hormones are racing through their bodies.

Ask yourself this all-important question: How can you make your visit as easy and relaxing as possible for the parents? After all, if you win over the parents by being a delightful guest, they’ll want to have you back to see the baby a lot more often!

Prepping for Baby’s Arrival

You might want to initiate a conversation about your first visit even before baby arrives. Preemptively check in with the parents to see if they have any thoughts about their visitor policy. Ask if they have any health or vaccination requests for guests. See if there’s anything you might be able to take off their plate during that newborn haze, like making frozen dinners or scheduling a cleaning service.

Gently opening the lines of communication shows your dedication to supporting the family during this transitional period.

Arriving at home with a new baby–especially for first-time parents–is a very “vulnerable” time, said Michelle Goitia, parent educator, postnatal doula and owner of JC Bump & Baby in Jersey City, New Jersey. So even though the purpose of your visit is to meet the baby, focus on what the parents may want or need, especially in those first precious days or weeks.

The pressure of preparing food or cleaning the house while caring for a demanding baby can be intense. “The biggest concern for new parents is that they feel like they have to entertain anybody that comes to their house,” said Goitia. You can relieve parents of some of that pressure by volunteering to bring coffee or reassuring them in advance that you don’t expect them to roll out the red carpet for you.

When is it Safe for Family and Friends to Visit a Newborn?

“Once babies are discharged from the hospital, we can assume that they’re healthy and can be around family,” said Emily Silver, a family nurse practitioner and founder of NAPS (Newborn & Parenting Support) in Boston, Massachusetts. So there are technically no medical restrictions to visiting a healthy baby the very minute they arrive at home. If the baby experienced complications at birth and/or has spent time in the newborn intensive care unit (NICU) , their pediatrician may have stricter rules or guidelines for newborn visits, depending on the health of the baby.

Regardless of the baby’s health, Silver cautioned, your ability to visit a newborn really comes down to the parents’ comfort level. “Everybody’s risk tolerance level is different, especially in a pandemic or cold and flu season,” she said.

Some parents might want everyone to visit and help them adjust to newborn life. Others might only want very close family visiting right away. Some parents might ask you to update your vaccinations for Covid, whooping cough or the flu . Or they might insist that visitors wash their hands and wear a mask.

“I don’t think there’s any right or wrong answer to all those layers. It just comes down to personal preference and their threshold of risk tolerance,” said Silver.

It can feel frustrating to wait days, weeks or even months to visit when all you want to do is rush in to hug the parents and hold the baby. If you find yourself in this position, know that most parents are not trying to push their friends and family out of their lives. Rather, they are trying to protect their brand-new family unit by limiting exposure to germs or simply spending time together to bond.

If your ultimate goal is to visit the new baby early and often, it’s best to graciously adhere to the parents’ wishes. Once parents understand that you’re on their side and have their family’s well-being in mind, they may be more open to having you visit in the future.

Help Out Where You Can

In her “ Grandparent Bootcamp ” sessions, Silver teaches family and friends that there’s a big difference between being a visitor and being a helper.

“A visitor is someone who makes you feel like you have to tidy up, put out food or put on a bra,” she said. “Being a helper means that you’ll do things that make the parents’ day a little easier. Look for unfinished chores that are right in front of you that you can just do without being asked.” Putting away clean dishes you see on the drying rack is one example of this.

The tricky thing about being a helper is that parents will need help in all sorts of different ways. One family might be desperate for you to fold their giant pile of laundry. Another might be horrified that you’ve seen their been-there-for-a-week wrinkly clothes. One mom might be thrilled to hand off the baby to you to hold so she can shower in peace. Another might prefer to hold the baby herself while you sit and catch up on all the gossip.

When in doubt, ask the parents what they need in clear, easy-to-accept language. You might say something like, “I’d really love to help make things a little easier for you today. Would you rather that I fold those sheets, run out to get those stamps you need from the post office or keep an eye on the baby so you can nap?”

The Secrets of a Successful Newborn Visit

You’ve talked to the parents, you’ve prepped for baby’s arrival and you’re in the helper mindset. Now, how can you make your visit such a smashing success that parents will be dying for you to make regular return visits?

• Ask the best day and time for your visit , giving the parents the option to cancel at any time. It can be difficult for parents to make concrete future plans, so decrease their stress levels by remaining as open and available as you possibly can. You might even want to check in before you leave your house to make sure it’s still a good time for a visit.
• Show parents that you prioritize limiting baby’s exposure to germs by taking off your shoes and washing your hands as soon as you enter the house. Parents will respond favorably to your efforts.
• Consider putting an end time on your visit. After you’ve spent an hour with the family, ask the parents what would truly be helpful: would they like you to stay another hour, or is it better to come back another time? This may make your first visit shorter than you would like, but you’ll be playing the long game in demonstrating that you won’t overstay your welcome in the future.
• Ask the parents how they are doing. Goitia noted that the focus is on parents during pregnancy, and after the baby arrives, parents get dropped “like a hot potato.” Of course, you’re there to meet the eight-pound guest of honor, but remember to give some love to the parents, too.
• Support any and all feeding choices and preferences. Feeding can be a touchy subject. Some moms will feed their kids in public without blinking, while others prefer to nurse in private. Silver recommended saying, “Let us know when you’re getting ready to feed the baby and we will go in the other room to give you privacy.” Moms may take you up on the offer or they might not. Either way, you’re again demonstrating your thoughtfulness.
• Find something specific to compliment the parents about , like their ease with soothing the baby or the gorgeous way they decorated the nursery. Tell them how proud you are of them for handling this major life transition with grace.

What Should I Bring When I Visit a Newborn?

The short answer? Food. Our experts said that you can’t go wrong bringing food (in containers that don’t have to be returned, of course). This is especially true if you’re visiting a baby who is more than three weeks old. Families tend to receive a lot of food at first, and then the meal train comes to an end.

But interestingly, Goitia and Silver said that what parents need most isn’t stuff –it’s you .

“Remember that you are walking into someone’s home and they quite possibly were up all night the night before. They might be on the verge of crying because their nipples hurt. Just walk in and be present,” said Silver. Sure you might want to bring a small token of your excitement to meet the baby, but overall, she said, “don’t worry about the ‘stuff.’”

Regardless of when or how you first visit baby, remember that this is only the very beginning of your relationship. So if that initial meeting doesn’t go exactly as you hoped or planned, don’t sweat it. This is only the beginning of the journey.

Once you lock eyes with that precious little one, all of the uncertainty will disappear. The details about how soon you first met or whether the casserole you made was too salty will fade away, and all you’ll take with you is the magic of that first connection.

Babylist Staff

Babylist editors and writers are parents themselves and have years of experience writing and researching, coming from media outlets like Motherly, the SF Chronicle, the New York Times and the Daily Beast, and the fields of early childhood education and publishing. We research and test hundreds of products, survey real Babylist parents and consult reviews in order to recommend the best products and gear for your growing family.

KATHERINE TURNER, MD

Am Fam Physician. 2018;98(6):347-353

Related letter: Well-Child Visits Provide Physicians Opportunity to Deliver Interconception Care to Mothers

Author disclosure: No relevant financial affiliations.

The well-child visit allows for comprehensive assessment of a child and the opportunity for further evaluation if abnormalities are detected. A complete history during the well-child visit includes information about birth history; prior screenings; diet; sleep; dental care; and medical, surgical, family, and social histories. A head-to-toe examination should be performed, including a review of growth. Immunizations should be reviewed and updated as appropriate. Screening for postpartum depression in mothers of infants up to six months of age is recommended. Based on expert opinion, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends developmental surveillance at each visit, with formal developmental screening at nine, 18, and 30 months and autism-specific screening at 18 and 24 months; the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force found insufficient evidence to make a recommendation. Well-child visits provide the opportunity to answer parents' or caregivers' questions and to provide age-appropriate guidance. Car seats should remain rear facing until two years of age or until the height or weight limit for the seat is reached. Fluoride use, limiting or avoiding juice, and weaning to a cup by 12 months of age may improve dental health. A one-time vision screening between three and five years of age is recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force to detect amblyopia. The American Academy of Pediatrics guideline based on expert opinion recommends that screen time be avoided, with the exception of video chatting, in children younger than 18 months and limited to one hour per day for children two to five years of age. Cessation of breastfeeding before six months and transition to solid foods before six months are associated with childhood obesity. Juice and sugar-sweetened beverages should be avoided before one year of age and provided only in limited quantities for children older than one year.

Well-child visits for infants and young children (up to five years) provide opportunities for physicians to screen for medical problems (including psychosocial concerns), to provide anticipatory guidance, and to promote good health. The visits also allow the family physician to establish a relationship with the parents or caregivers. This article reviews the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines for screenings and recommendations for infants and young children. Family physicians should prioritize interventions with the strongest evidence for patient-oriented outcomes, such as immunizations, postpartum depression screening, and vision screening.

Clinical Examination

The history should include a brief review of birth history; prematurity can be associated with complex medical conditions. 1 Evaluate breastfed infants for any feeding problems, 2 and assess formula-fed infants for type and quantity of iron-fortified formula being given. 3 For children eating solid foods, feeding history should include everything the child eats and drinks. Sleep, urination, defecation, nutrition, dental care, and child safety should be reviewed. Medical, surgical, family, and social histories should be reviewed and updated. For newborns, review the results of all newborn screening tests ( Table 1 4 – 7 ) and schedule follow-up visits as necessary. 2

PHYSICAL EXAMINATION

A comprehensive head-to-toe examination should be completed at each well-child visit. Interval growth should be reviewed by using appropriate age, sex, and gestational age growth charts for height, weight, head circumference, and body mass index if 24 months or older. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-recommended growth charts can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/growthcharts/who_charts.htm#The%20WHO%20Growth%20Charts . Percentiles and observations of changes along the chart's curve should be assessed at every visit. Include assessment of parent/caregiver-child interactions and potential signs of abuse such as bruises on uncommonly injured areas, burns, human bite marks, bruises on nonmobile infants, or multiple injuries at different healing stages. 8

The USPSTF and AAP screening recommendations are outlined in Table 2 . 3 , 9 – 27 A summary of AAP recommendations can be found at https://www.aap.org/en-us/Documents/periodicity_schedule.pdf . The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) generally adheres to USPSTF recommendations. 28

MATERNAL DEPRESSION

Prevalence of postpartum depression is around 12%, 22 and its presence can impair infant development. The USPSTF and AAP recommend using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (available at https://www.aafp.org/afp/2010/1015/p926.html#afp20101015p926-f1 ) or the Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (available at https://www.aafp.org/afp/2012/0115/p139.html#afp20120115p139-t3 ) to screen for maternal depression. The USPSTF does not specify a screening schedule; however, based on expert opinion, the AAP recommends screening mothers at the one-, two-, four-, and six-month well-child visits, with further evaluation for positive results. 23 There are no recommendations to screen other caregivers if the mother is not present at the well-child visit.

PSYCHOSOCIAL

With nearly one-half of children in the United States living at or near the poverty level, assessing home safety, food security, and access to safe drinking water can improve awareness of psychosocial problems, with referrals to appropriate agencies for those with positive results. 29 The prevalence of mental health disorders (i.e., primarily anxiety, depression, behavioral disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) in preschool-aged children is around 6%. 30 Risk factors for these disorders include having a lower socioeconomic status, being a member of an ethnic minority, and having a non–English-speaking parent or primary caregiver. 25 The USPSTF found insufficient evidence regarding screening for depression in children up to 11 years of age. 24 Based on expert opinion, the AAP recommends that physicians consider screening, although screening in young children has not been validated or standardized. 25

DEVELOPMENT AND SURVEILLANCE

Based on expert opinion, the AAP recommends early identification of developmental delays 14 and autism 10 ; however, the USPSTF found insufficient evidence to recommend formal developmental screening 13 or autism-specific screening 9 if the parents/caregivers or physician have no concerns. If physicians choose to screen, developmental surveillance of language, communication, gross and fine movements, social/emotional development, and cognitive/problem-solving skills should occur at each visit by eliciting parental or caregiver concerns, obtaining interval developmental history, and observing the child. Any area of concern should be evaluated with a formal developmental screening tool, such as Ages and Stages Questionnaire, Parents' Evaluation of Developmental Status, Parents' Evaluation of Developmental Status-Developmental Milestones, or Survey of Well-Being of Young Children. These tools can be found at https://www.aap.org/en-us/advocacy-and-policy/aap-health-initiatives/Screening/Pages/Screening-Tools.aspx . If results are abnormal, consider intervention or referral to early intervention services. The AAP recommends completing the previously mentioned formal screening tools at nine-, 18-, and 30-month well-child visits. 14

The AAP also recommends autism-specific screening at 18 and 24 months. 10 The USPSTF recommends using the two-step Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) screening tool (available at https://m-chat.org/ ) if a physician chooses to screen a patient for autism. 10 The M-CHAT can be incorporated into the electronic medical record, with the possibility of the parent or caregiver completing the questionnaire through the patient portal before the office visit.

IRON DEFICIENCY

Multiple reports have associated iron deficiency with impaired neurodevelopment. Therefore, it is essential to ensure adequate iron intake. Based on expert opinion, the AAP recommends supplements for preterm infants beginning at one month of age and exclusively breastfed term infants at six months of age. 3 The USPSTF found insufficient evidence to recommend screening for iron deficiency in infants. 19 Based on expert opinion, the AAP recommends measuring a child's hemoglobin level at 12 months of age. 3

Lead poisoning and elevated lead blood levels are prevalent in young children. The AAP and CDC recommend a targeted screening approach. The AAP recommends screening for serum lead levels between six months and six years in high-risk children; high-risk children are identified by location-specific risk recommendations, enrollment in Medicaid, being foreign born, or personal screening. 21 The USPSTF does not recommend screening for lead poisoning in children at average risk who are asymptomatic. 20

The USPSTF recommends at least one vision screening to detect amblyopia between three and five years of age. Testing options include visual acuity, ocular alignment test, stereoacuity test, photoscreening, and autorefractors. The USPSTF found insufficient evidence to recommend screening before three years of age. 26 The AAP, American Academy of Ophthalmology, and the American Academy of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus recommend the use of an instrument-based screening (photoscreening or autorefractors) between 12 months and three years of age and annual visual acuity screening beginning at four years of age. 31

IMMUNIZATIONS

The AAFP recommends that all children be immunized. 32 Recommended vaccination schedules, endorsed by the AAP, the AAFP, and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, are found at https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/hcp/child-adolescent.html . Immunizations are usually administered at the two-, four-, six-, 12-, and 15- to 18-month well-child visits; the four- to six-year well-child visit; and annually during influenza season. Additional vaccinations may be necessary based on medical history. 33 Immunization history should be reviewed at each wellness visit.

Anticipatory Guidance

Injuries remain the leading cause of death among children, 34 and the AAP has made several recommendations to decrease the risk of injuries. 35 – 42 Appropriate use of child restraints minimizes morbidity and mortality associated with motor vehicle collisions. Infants need a rear-facing car safety seat until two years of age or until they reach the height or weight limit for the specific car seat. Children should then switch to a forward-facing car seat for as long as the seat allows, usually 65 to 80 lb (30 to 36 kg). 35 Children should never be unsupervised around cars, driveways, and streets. Young children should wear bicycle helmets while riding tricycles or bicycles. 37

Having functioning smoke detectors and an escape plan decreases the risk of fire- and smoke-related deaths. 36 Water heaters should be set to a maximum of 120°F (49°C) to prevent scald burns. 37 Infants and young children should be watched closely around any body of water, including water in bathtubs and toilets, to prevent drowning. Swimming pools and spas should be completely fenced with a self-closing, self-latching gate. 38

Infants should not be left alone on any high surface, and stairs should be secured by gates. 43 Infant walkers should be discouraged because they provide no benefit and they increase falls down stairs, even if stair gates are installed. 39 Window locks, screens, or limited-opening windows decrease injury and death from falling. 40 Parents or caregivers should also anchor furniture to a wall to prevent heavy pieces from toppling over. Firearms should be kept unloaded and locked. 41

Young children should be closely supervised at all times. Small objects are a choking hazard, especially for children younger than three years. Latex balloons, round objects, and food can cause life-threatening airway obstruction. 42 Long strings and cords can strangle children. 37

DENTAL CARE

Infants should never have a bottle in bed, and babies should be weaned to a cup by 12 months of age. 44 Juices should be avoided in infants younger than 12 months. 45 Fluoride use inhibits tooth demineralization and bacterial enzymes and also enhances remineralization. 11 The AAP and USPSTF recommend fluoride supplementation and the application of fluoride varnish for teeth if the water supply is insufficient. 11 , 12 Begin brushing teeth at tooth eruption with parents or caregivers supervising brushing until mastery. Children should visit a dentist regularly, and an assessment of dental health should occur at well-child visits. 44

SCREEN TIME

Hands-on exploration of their environment is essential to development in children younger than two years. Video chatting is acceptable for children younger than 18 months; otherwise digital media should be avoided. Parents and caregivers may use educational programs and applications with children 18 to 24 months of age. If screen time is used for children two to five years of age, the AAP recommends a maximum of one hour per day that occurs at least one hour before bedtime. Longer usage can cause sleep problems and increases the risk of obesity and social-emotional delays. 46

To decrease the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), the AAP recommends that infants sleep on their backs on a firm mattress for the first year of life with no blankets or other soft objects in the crib. 45 Breastfeeding, pacifier use, and room sharing without bed sharing protect against SIDS; infant exposure to tobacco, alcohol, drugs, and sleeping in bed with parents or caregivers increases the risk of SIDS. 47

DIET AND ACTIVITY

The USPSTF, AAFP, and AAP all recommend breastfeeding until at least six months of age and ideally for the first 12 months. 48 Vitamin D 400 IU supplementation for the first year of life in exclusively breastfed infants is recommended to prevent vitamin D deficiency and rickets. 49 Based on expert opinion, the AAP recommends the introduction of certain foods at specific ages. Early transition to solid foods before six months is associated with higher consumption of fatty and sugary foods 50 and an increased risk of atopic disease. 51 Delayed transition to cow's milk until 12 months of age decreases the incidence of iron deficiency. 52 Introduction of highly allergenic foods, such as peanut-based foods and eggs, before one year decreases the likelihood that a child will develop food allergies. 53

With approximately 17% of children being obese, many strategies for obesity prevention have been proposed. 54 The USPSTF does not have a recommendation for screening or interventions to prevent obesity in children younger than six years. 54 The AAP has made several recommendations based on expert opinion to prevent obesity. Cessation of breastfeeding before six months and introduction of solid foods before six months are associated with childhood obesity and are not recommended. 55 Drinking juice should be avoided before one year of age, and, if given to older children, only 100% fruit juice should be provided in limited quantities: 4 ounces per day from one to three years of age and 4 to 6 ounces per day from four to six years of age. Intake of other sugar-sweetened beverages should be discouraged to help prevent obesity. 45 The AAFP and AAP recommend that children participate in at least 60 minutes of active free play per day. 55 , 56

Data Sources: Literature search was performed using the USPSTF published recommendations ( https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/BrowseRec/Index/browse-recommendations ) and the AAP Periodicity table ( https://www.aap.org/en-us/Documents/periodicity_schedule.pdf ). PubMed searches were completed using the key terms pediatric, obesity prevention, and allergy prevention with search limits of infant less than 23 months or pediatric less than 18 years. The searches included systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials, clinical trials, and position statements. Essential Evidence Plus was also reviewed. Search dates: May through October 2017.

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Durbin DR American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Injury, Violence, and Poison Prevention. Child passenger safety. Pediatrics. 2011;127(4):788-793.

American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Injury and Poison Prevention. Reducing the number of deaths and injuries from residential fires. Pediatrics. 2000;105(6):1355-1357.

Gardner HG American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Injury, Violence, and Poison Prevention. Office-based counseling for unintentional injury prevention. Pediatrics. 2007;119(1):202-206.

American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Injury, Violence, and Poison Prevention. Prevention of drowning in infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatrics. 2003;112(2):437-439.

American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Injury and Poison Prevention. Injuries associated with infant walkers. Pediatrics. 2001;108(3):790-792.

American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Injury and Poison Prevention. Falls from heights: windows, roofs, and balconies. Pediatrics. 2001;107(5):1188-1191.

Dowd MD, Sege RD Council on Injury, Violence, and Poison Prevention Executive Committee; American Academy of Pediatrics. Firearm-related injuries affecting the pediatric population. Pediatrics. 2012;130(5):e1416-e1423.

American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Injury, Violence, and Poison Prevention. Prevention of choking among children. Pediatrics. 2010;125(3):601-607.

Kendrick D, Young B, Mason-Jones AJ, et al. Home safety education and provision of safety equipment for injury prevention (review). Evid Based Child Health. 2013;8(3):761-939.

American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Oral Health. Maintaining and improving the oral health of young children. Pediatrics. 2014;134(6):1224-1229.

Heyman MB, Abrams SA American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition Committee on Nutrition. Fruit juice in infants, children, and adolescents: current recommendations. Pediatrics. 2017;139(6):e20170967.

Council on Communications and Media. Media and young minds. Pediatrics. 2016;138(5):e20162591.

Moon RY Task Force on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. SIDS and other sleep-related infant deaths: evidence base for 2016 updated recommendations for a safe infant sleeping environment. Pediatrics. 2016;138(5):e20162940.

American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Breastfeeding. Breastfeeding and the use of human milk. Pediatrics. 2012;129(3):e827-e841.

Wagner CL, Greer FR American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Breastfeeding; Committee on Nutrition. Prevention of rickets and vitamin D deficiency in infants, children, and adolescents [published correction appears in Pediatrics . 2009;123(1):197]. Pediatrics. 2008;122(5):1142-1152.

Huh SY, Rifas-Shiman SL, Taveras EM, Oken E, Gillman MW. Timing of solid food introduction and risk of obesity in preschool-aged children. Pediatrics. 2011;127(3):e544-e551.

Greer FR, Sicherer SH, Burks AW American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Nutrition; Section on Allergy and Immunology. Effects of early nutritional interventions on the development of atopic disease in infants and children: the role of maternal dietary restriction, breastfeeding, timing of introduction of complementary foods, and hydrolyzed formulas. Pediatrics. 2008;121(1):183-191.

American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Nutrition. The use of whole cow's milk in infancy. Pediatrics. 1992;89(6 pt 1):1105-1109.

Fleischer DM, Spergel JM, Assa'ad AH, Pongracic JA. Primary prevention of allergic disease through nutritional interventions. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2013;1(1):29-36.

Grossman DC, Bibbins-Domingo K, Curry SJ, et al. Screening for obesity in children and adolescents: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement. JAMA. 2017;317(23):2417-2426.

Daniels SR, Hassink SG Committee on Nutrition. The role of the pediatrician in primary prevention of obesity. Pediatrics. 2015;136(1):e275-e292.

American Academy of Family Physicians. Physical activity in children. https://www.aafp.org/about/policies/all/physical-activity.html . Accessed January 1, 2018.

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Well Baby Visits, 1 and 2 Months

Topics to discuss with patients during their well baby visit at 1 and 2 months.

• Babies should gain ½ lb per week
• Infants gain approximately 1 inch per month during this time
• Continuing exclusive breastfeeding or formula without supplemental water or juice
• Ask mothers who are working whether allowances are made in the workplace for breastfeeding support. Federal law requires providing breaks and adequate place for expressing breast milk.
• Breastfed infants continue to require 8 to 12 feedings per day
• Daily formula intake should increase from 24 oz (at 1 month) to 30 to 32 oz (by 4 months)

Consider Referral

• Growth faltering (failure to thrive) [Nutrition Related Illnesses and Concerns/Growth faltering]
• Persistent dysphagia [Optimizing Nutrition for Newborns and Infants/Breastfeeding the Newborn/Feeding Issues]
• Dysphagia of unknown cause

Additional Information

• Gastroesophageal reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease: Parent FAQs , American Academy of Pediatrics.
• Parent’s Guide to GER (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) and GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) (handout), American Academy of Pediatrics
• Breastfeeding Your Baby: Getting Started (handout), American Academy of Pediatrics
• New Mother’s Guide to Breastfeeding, 3rd Edition (book), American Academy of Pediatrics (also available in Spanish)
• Breastfeeding-Baby Questions (handout)
• Preparing Infant Formula: Important Safety Information (handout), American Academy of Pediatrics
• Healthy Active Living—Responsive Feeding (handout) American Academy of Pediatrics
• Bottle Feeding (Formula) Questions (handout), American Academy of Pediatrics

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A former DEI manager and Instagram model is suing the University of Minnesota for firing her over a photo that showed her posing near an Israeli flag emblazoned with swastikas.

In the filing this week, Mashal Sherzad accused the school of violating her First Amendment rights as well as discrimination, the Star Tribune reported .

She also asked to have her job reinstated and wants more than $75,000 in damages.

Sherzad is also known for posting saucy fashion photos online, including a glam photo shoot of her carrying a Palestinian flag during an anti-Israel protest.

She started working as a program manager for diversity, equity and inclusion at the university’s School of Public Health at the end of October.

She was terminated in January, when the university became away of photos on her Facebook page that showed her at a December protest against the Israel-Hamas war in Barcelona, Spain.

One of the pictures showed Sherzad in front of an Israeli flag with swastikas painted on it.

During a news conference on Friday, she insisted that the flag belonged to someone else.

 “I cannot be responsible for somebody else’s intellectual property,” she said.

In the lawsuit, Sherzad also claimed that she posted the photos to her private Instagram, and that they were automatically shared on her public Facebook without her knowledge.

As of Saturday morning, the photos from the protest appeared to have been deleted from her profile.

In the letter of termination dated Jan. 10, School of Public Health Dean Melinda Pettigrew told Sherzad that “your conduct directly undermines your credibility in this role.”

“I find that continuing your employment would create a real risk of significant disruption to School and University activities,” the letter viewed by The Post read.

“This is particularly true given the current climate around the Israeli/Palestinian conflict, within the University community and around the globe, and the highly inflammatory nature of the image you posted.”

Sherzad’s discipline file also included a November post in which she referred to Israel’s retaliatory bombardment of the Gaza Strip as genocide, the Star Tribune revealed.

On Friday, Sherzad’s supporters said they felt that she was being unfairly targeted for her pro-Palestinian stance.

“The facts of this case are completely unbelievable. It is a dark day for freedom of speech,” said Jaylani Hussein, the executive director for Minnesota’s chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations.

The University of Minnesota declined to comment on the ongoing litigation.

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Though the original flag photo is no longer available, Sherzad’s public profile has multiple recent posts regarding the ongoing war.

Earlier this week, she reposted a series of images including a graphic that read “Zionism = Nazism,” with the caption “all of this.”

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Surrogacy 'unicorn' is pregnant with baby No. 11 and would do it again 'in a heartbeat'

April 21-27 is National Infertility Awareness Week. All week, TODAY will be sharing stories to raise awareness of what it is like to experience infertility.

In the last 13 years, 37-year-old Emily Westerfield has delivered 10 healthy babies. Three were her own biological children. She acted as a gestational carrier for families of the others. Twice, she carried twins.

She is now 28 weeks pregnant with baby No. 11.

“I’m probably the unicorn in this industry,” Westerfield tells TODAY.com.

Her incredible success in navigating the  surrogacy  experience led her to give birth to  Carrying Dreams , her own full-service agency designed to help egg donors, surrogates and intended parents on their parenting journeys in a way that works best for them.

So, would Westerfield consider having baby No. 12?

“In a heartbeat,” she says.

Planting the seed for surrogacy

Westerfield and her husband, Max, live in Celina, Ohio, with their three biological children: Mckenna, 13, Jack, 11, and Charlie, 10.

In 2010, Westerfield spent a lot of time bonding with Max’s cousin, who had been having trouble sustaining a pregnancy for years. She was suffering from  secondary infertility  and struggled to bring a pregnancy to term.

“She just continuously kept having  loss after loss , and it was heartbreaking,” she says.

Westerfield was able to conceive and deliver her three biological children with relative ease, making her feel “guilty” every time she shared the news with her husband’s cousin. Without knowing much about the process of surrogacy, Westerfield offered to be a gestational carrier for the cousin’s embryo.

“They did not feel that surrogacy was the path that they wanted to take,” she explains, “but I knew that there were probably so many other people in the world who needed help in a very similar way. Maybe I could help.”Even while she was pregnant with her third (and last) biological child, Westerfield mentioned to her husband that she was interested in becoming a gestational carrier.

“I was shot down by him so many times,” Westerfield says with a laugh. “The more and more I shared to educate him, I think the more and more he felt comfortable with it. Or he just got sick of me nagging.”

The first surrogacy journey

After her son Charlie completed their family, Westerfield activated her search to find another family to assist via surrogacy in earnest. She joined an online forum that no longer exists. “It was almost like a Craigslist of everybody in the infertility community,” she says. Surrogates, egg donors, sperm donors and intended parents used the site to help create families.

“I created a profile and just put myself out there,” says Westerfield. “I was overwhelmed with the response and just inundated with emails and queries. The more and more that I got into this, the more I realized there’s so many more people out there that  need  the help than the people that are  willing  to help.”

Westerfield had initial conversations with a handful of hopeful parents and ultimately chose a couple that seemed like a good match in terms of personality, age and location. They were an easy three-hour drive away.

But the decision wasn’t easy. Each story was more heartbreaking than the one before. The family that Westerfield ultimately decided to help already had two children. During the second birth, the mother needed an emergency hysterectomy, leaving her unable to complete their family with the third child they so desperately wanted.

Calling to tell the couple the good news “was so emotionally overwhelming and exciting and nerve-wracking, all at the same time.” Using the embryos the couple had already created, Westerfield delivered their third child, a girl, in December 2015.

“And that’s when everything started,” Westerfield says.

Westerfield says, “I noticed that as soon as I had the first one, I wanted to do this again. It was almost just like, ‘Now who else can I help?’”

She delivered healthy babies in 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2021 and 2022. She is currently pregnant and due in July.

“I’ve been able to completely just have wonderful pregnancies,” she says. Even so, at age 37, she knows that she may have a limited window in which to continue.

The process of being a gestational carrier is markedly different than being pregnant with your own child, according to Westerfield. For instance, there are screenings and contracts and psychological evaluations. Her husband did not accompany her to appointments. She keeps in mind that the end goal is to deliver a healthy child so that another couple can “start, build or complete their family.”

Wondering if it’s ever hard to let go of a baby you have physically carried for nine months? Westerfield says it’s not.

“I get attached like a loving aunt,” she explains. Knowing the heartbreak that the couple has gone through in the past, “you  want  to hand that baby over when you get to the end of this.”

Westerfield started her own surrogacy agency in August 2023 in part to help educate and provide resources for both potential surrogates and intended families.

“I feel like there’s so much information out there that it’s overwhelming,” Westerfield says. “And a lot of it is outdated or incorrect, and I want to be able to speak from personal experience going through this process.”

She also helps match families with gestational carriers and helps hold their hand through a stressful process, making sure they are on the same page for important topics like physical or chromosomal abnormalities, geographic location, contact preferences after birth and even vaccination status.It’s difficult to find gestational carriers who are willing and fit all of the qualifications. Westerfield also thinks it’s essential for gestational carriers to have completed their own families before helping others grow theirs. She has about six prospective couples for every one potential surrogate.

Westerfield takes a lot of pride in helping families grow, especially those she has carried children for. She stays in touch with each family in some capacity via text or social media, and she tries to remember to send birthday gifts.

“I am so proud to be able to do this for other people. I know my time is very limited as we’re getting closer and closer to how many people I’m able to help, but still I’m young enough and I’m healthy enough to be able to do so,” Westerfield says. “And I’ll continue to help as long as my body and my family allows me to.”

Rosie Colosi is a reporter for TODAY Parents.