Well Child Visits

First visit within a week of hospital discharge to ensure your baby is thriving.

Check on family adjustment and baby's weight regain. Discuss feeding, sleep patterns, and safe sleep practices.

Many babies seem more fussy or colicky at this age. Be patient. Colicky babies eventually outgrow their crying phase. Keeping your baby safe is the most important thing you can do. Even if you feel frustrated, handle your baby gently and reach out for help to friends, relatives or your pediatrician if the crying is getting to be too much.

Your baby is becoming more active and verbal. Be careful not to leave your baby unattended, especially on a bed, couch or counter. They move faster than you think! Babies need only breast milk or iron fortified formula for the first 4-6 months of life. We will talk at this appointment about the appropriate time to introduce solid foods.

Your baby will begin to move more and will be able to sit up independently for short periods of time. Now is the time to start baby-proofing your house - if you haven't already done so. You should move the mattress in your baby's crib down to the lowest level.

Your baby may be starting to crawl, pulling to a stand and cruising on furniture. Babies will want to touch everything - this is how they learn. This is a messy time! Have fun and be patient.

At this age, your baby can transition from breast milk or formula to cow's milk. However, it is healthy to continue breast milk, if that is what you prefer. Most babies need 3 meals, 2-3 snacks per day, and no more than 16-20 ounces of whole cow's milk per day. It is time to wean your child from the bottle and offer all liquids in a sippy cup. Your baby will be outgrowing the infant carrier car seat. Continue to have your baby in a rear facing car seat until age 2.

Your child may be able to climb and run, so be sure to safety proof your home. Poison control is available 24 hours a day: 1-800-222-1222 - keep this number handy in your cell phone and on your refrigerator.

At 18 months, your child understands much more than he or she can say in words. Use words to describe your child's feelings and gestures. Read and sing to your child often. When reading, use simple words to talk about the pictures.

At this age, your 2 year old may go from trying to be independent to clinging to you; this is normal. It is better for toddlers to play than to watch TV. Even having television playing in the background interrupts healthy toddler play - background music is a better choice.

Your child will likely be moving into a world of make believe that they create with their imagination. Toys for dress up and make believe are important at this age. Read books, sing songs and play rhyming games with your child each day.

Four year olds often like to sing, dance and act. They like to tell "tall tales" and make up stories. Enjoy these fun moments with your little one! Parents should continue to help with brushing teeth even though your child will want to do it all by themselves.

At this age, your child needs more independence. However, you need to set clear limits. A regular bedtime and consistent bedtime routine are important. Be a great role model. Show an interest in what they are learning.

Your child may be transitioning to middle school at this age. He or she may be participating in more group activities. Expand your conversations about healthy living practices to include tobacco, drug and alcohol avoidance.

Congratulations! You are solidly in the teen years! It is exciting to see the wonderful person your child is becoming. During the teen years, we provide the opportunity for your teen to have at least a portion of the visit with the parent out of the room.