newborn doctor visits first year

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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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Vaccine schedule for babies and kids

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]

Where to go next

The First-Week Well-Baby Visit

The physical checkup, developmental milestones, read this next, 1-week shots, questions to ask your doctor.

You may also want to ask the results of any newborn screening that was done at the hospital and/or find out when all the results will be in. And don’t forget to make the 1-month appointment !

What to Expect the First Year , 3rd edition, Heidi Murkoff. WhatToExpect.com,  Your Newborn’s Weight: Normal Gains and Losses and What the Average Baby Weighs , August 2020. WhatToExpect.com,  Jaundice in Newborn Babies , October 2020. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Vaccines for Your Children, Vaccine (Shot) for Hepatitis B , August 2019. Stanford Children’s Health, Newborn Reflexes , 2021.

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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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Your baby's first year of pediatrician visits, explained

Understanding baby checkups

Baby check-ups, often called “well visits” or “well baby visits”, are routine doctor visits with your child’s pediatrician. This is a designated time for the doctor to assess how your baby is doing and for parents to address any concerns they might have.  

These early appointments are important because lots of things happen — like immunizations, developmental screenings, and physical exams — that are important for your child’s healthy growth and development.

When to schedule the first pediatrician visit

Technically, your child’s first pediatrician visit will happen in the hospital, birth center, or home, shortly after your baby is born. Your baby should also have their newborn hearing screening done during this time. But your child’s first trip to the ped’s office will happen 3 to 5 days after birth, unless they need to be seen sooner. 

As you can imagine, things might be quite hectic then. You’ve just delivered your baby, you may have had a hospital stay, and then you’re discharged and off to the parenting races. It can leave you wondering: when do I actually schedule my baby’s first doctor’s appointment?

Usually, you’ll want to schedule your baby’s first pediatrician visit after they are born, but this means you should already have chosen your child’s pediatrician. You, or a designated support person, can make the call to schedule the appointment shortly after birth.  

What happens at the first pediatrician visit

Here’s what typically happens at a newborn’s first doctor appointment.

• Completing paperwork. Yes, more paperwork. This is one reason why it can be helpful to bring a support person along, if possible. That way, one person can focus on completing the paperwork while the other can tend to the baby.
• Reviewing medical history. It’s important for your child’s doctor to know about your family’s medical history because this lets them know whether there may be any concerns to watch out for when it comes to your baby’s health.
• Assessing baby’s growth, sleep, and eating habits. The pediatrician will likely ask you many questions about how your baby has been sleeping and eating, as well as how many wet and poop-y diapers they make per day. This information helps the pediatrician determine how well your baby is growing. They will also weigh your baby on a scale without clothes, and measure their length and the size of their head. They will tell you what percentile your baby is in for each of these measurements, giving you an indication of their size in comparison to other children the same age.
• Performing a physical exam. A physical exam for newborns is especially important to see whether the baby might have any injuries from birth. Doctors will check your baby’s head for soft spots, or fontanelles, on top, and talk with you about the soft spots. They will also check your baby’s neck, hips, and umbilical cord, and should give you information on how to keep the area clean until it falls off later. The pediatrician will also check your baby's newborn reflexes and look for signs of jaundice, like yellowing of the eyes or skin.

Preparing for the first pediatrician visit

During this well visit, you'll also get the chance to ask questions. So a great way to prepare for your baby’s first doctor visit is to prepare a list of questions you want to ask in advance. For example:

• How can I help my baby regain any birth weight they lose?
• How do I care for my baby's umbilical cord, and when will it fall off?
• (If you have a baby who was circumcised) How can I help my child's circumcision heal well?
• (If you have a baby who was not circumcised) How do I clean my child's penis properly?
• How can I help my baby reach their developmental milestones?
• Does my baby show any signs of developmental delays?
• What should I do if my baby gets sick?
• Are there any resources you recommend for postpartum support?

A few practical tips for the first pediatrician visit

Emotionally, the first pediatrician visit can be tough for the family. Your baby may cry because they’re outside their comfort zone, and it can be hard to see your baby upset, even though it's for their own good.

Being prepared with all the supplies and information you need can help make the first well visit easier. Here’s a list of helpful items to bring along:

• Extra diapers and wipes
• Extra milk, if needed
• Extra baby clothes and burp cloths
• A blanket (it can be cold in doctor’s offices)
• A pacifier if your baby uses one
• Your ID and health insurance card
• Any helpful notes about complications you may have had during pregnancy or birth
• Notes about family medical history
• Paperwork you completed from the hospital

Older infant-checkup schedule

After the first pediatrician visit, well baby checkups will probably happen according to this American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)-recommended infant checkup schedule :

After 12 months, when your baby officially becomes a toddler, checkups will likely happen at 15 months, 18 months, 24 months, and 30 months. From 3 years old onward, child checkups will happen once a year.

What happens at later well-baby visits

Most well baby visits include a standard set of activities, including:

• A growth assessment of weight, length or height, and head size
• Vaccinations
• A physical exam, including checking for jaundice during the first few visits
• Evaluating developmental milestones progress
• Talking about sleep and nutrition

Questions to ask your pediatrician at well visits

Open communication between parents and their child’s pediatrician is important, since the common goal is to make sure your baby is healthy and growing well. These common questions may help you feel empowered and informed about your baby’s well-being:

• What vaccinations are recommended for my child at this age?
• Is my child’s growth on track?
• Is my child meeting their developmental milestones for this age?
• What should my child be eating and/or drinking at this age?
• Do you recommend any medications or vitamins for my baby at this age? What are the potential risks and benefits?

What to do between pediatrician appointments

Of course, if there are any other questions, concerns you have, or ideas you want to run by your child’s doctor, well visits are the perfect time to bring them up. But between pediatrician visits, it can be helpful to have a trusted source you can go to for support. Summer Health’s doctors and specialists are available for all your child's primary care and urgent care needs.

There are several ways Summer Health pediatricians and specialists can support you and your family between pediatrician appointments, like:

• Answering questions you have about your baby’s sleep, eating habits, growth, development, or behavior
• Providing you with breastfeeding tips and recommendations if you run into any issues
• Helping you care for your baby if they get sick (You can even send us a photo or video of your baby if there are certain symptoms you’d like us to see or hear.)

With a trusted pediatrician your child can see in-person regularly, and the support of the caring providers at Summer Health, you can ensure your child has the best care team during their first year of life. 

American Academy of Pediatrics. Recommendations for Preventive Pediatric Health Care. https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/PDF/periodicity_schedule.pdf

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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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Your New Baby's Well-Child Check-Up Schedule (and What to Expect)

Introduction

Well-baby visits are a staple of every new parent’s life. From the day they are born throughout their first year, your baby will have several wellness visits to ensure that they are healthy, happy, and reaching developmental milestones. 

Well-baby visits are vital for immunizations, healthcare, and support from your pediatrician. At Juno Pediatrics, we love establishing relationships with parents that last throughout their baby’s childhood. From newborn through adulthood, Juno is there for every step along the way. 

In this guide, we will explore new-baby visits in-depth, including what to expect, when to schedule them, and how to give your little one the best care possible.

What Are Well-Baby Visits? 

Also known as well-child check-ups, these appointments are pivotal points in their development and healthcare. From the day your baby is born, doctor’s visits will become a regular part of your life. A baby’s first year is filled with trips to the pediatrician where parents can ask questions, get advice and address any concerns they may have. 

In addition to spotting any issues or developmental warning signs, parents can seek out advice on common concerns, such as how to soothe teething, when to expect their baby to start walking, weaning, and breastfeeding. 

Bear in mind that well-child visits are different from additional doctor’s appointments you may need. For example, if your baby falls ill, is injured or you are concerned about something, you can schedule additional evaluations outside of their well-visit schedule. 

Well-Baby Visit Schedule 

Each baby receives a well-baby check-up at 2-5 days,1 month, 2 months, 6 months, 9 months, and 12 months from their birth date. You can, of course, also schedule additional appointments to address any concerns with your pediatrician. 

Remember that well-visits aren’t just for your baby — they are meant to help you, too! There are many parenting milestones you will reach your baby’s first year. From feeding to sleeping, walking to teething, the team at Juno Pediatrics is here to help you nurture your little one every step of the way. 

The First Check-Up: 2-5 Days

The first visit is also important to establish a baby’s feeding habits. All babies lose weight after birth, and it is critical to make sure that the baby is within a healthy range of weight loss and maintains adequate hydration while they learn to eat. Sometimes, a newborn needs assistance with latching onto the breast or learning to take a bottle, which the doctor can address and assist with.

Some babies become jaundiced , a condition caused by too much bilirubin in the bloodstream. This is a yellow substance produced by red blood cells as they break down and accumulate in the baby’s skin.  This will be closely monitored with physical exams and bloodwork if necessary. If your baby had feeding issues or jaundice at birth, you may have daily visits from birth until their condition improves.

If you have a home birth, then your baby should visit the doctor one to two days after entering the world.  This is important because an infant needs vital exams within the first 48 hours of life. Certain tests that were not done at your home birth will be done at this visit, including taking a sample of the baby’s blood for a Newborn Screen. This metabolic screening during this early check-up ensures that your newborn’s body systems are all functioning as they should.

Depending on how your baby is growing and feeding, you will have a weight check between your first and second well-child visits. At this exam, your pediatrician will take your baby’s measurements and start to build their health record. They will address subjects like regular feedings, sleep schedules, and skills like diaper changing and swaddling. 

This visit is the perfect time to establish a connection with your baby’s doctor. They are here for you, so don’t hesitate to ask all your questions, share any concerns and be honest about how you’re feeling. 

Many new parents struggle in the early days, and if you’re feeling overwhelmed, your pediatrician can help. 

The Second Visit: 1 Month

Your baby will grow rapidly throughout its first four weeks of life. You don’t have to schedule this well-visit on the exact 1-month date but aim to make it during the milestone week. 

From birth, babies will typically gain 1 ounce every day for the first 30 days. By the time they reach 1-month old , most will have gone through two small but rapid growth periods and gained at least 2 additional pounds. 

During their 1-month well-visit, the doctor will begin by checking your baby’s vital signs and taking their measurements. Then, the doctor will check in with you and how you’re feeling. They can offer tips and suggestions on how to nurture your baby’s development through play, tummy time and reading. 

Through feeding, playing, cuddling, and rest, your baby will develop according to their own body. If they have a condition that will affect their health and development, the pediatrician will discuss this in detail and give you advice on what to look for. 

The Third Check-Up: 2 Months

At the 8-week mark, your baby will be far more alert than when they were born. The average 2-month old is more visually engaged and able to look at an object for several seconds as well as watch you when you move. 

At the beginning of this and every visit, your baby’s vital signs measurements will be taken and documented. Your pediatrician will review how they are eating, voiding, stooling, and sleeping.  In addition, your pediatrician will review their development and milestone and give you guidance on what to expect for the next two months before their next checkup

This visit is also the time to start immunization. At the 2-month well-visit, your infant will obtain 4 vaccines and be protected against 8 serious bacterial and viral diseases. 

The following vaccines are administered at the 2-month visit, and comprises the first set of their primary series:

Hepatitis B

Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis (DTaP) 

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) 

Pneumococcal (PCV)

Polio (IPV) 

Rotavirus (RV)

Be sure to voice any concerns or questions you have about vaccines and immunization with your pediatrician. Many parents who never second-guessed immunization can become anxious after they have a baby. They will discuss everything you need to know, listen to how you feel and answer your questions. 

At Juno Pediatrics , we are committed to providing the highest level of care and protection, and toward that goal, we ensure that all of our patients are vaccinated on schedule and on time.  You can find more on our approach to pediatric vaccines on our website . Your pediatrician will be there to answer any and all questions along the way.

The Fourth Check-Up: 4 Months

Four-month-olds are smiling, cooing babies, reaching for toys and your hair, looking around, and holding their heads up with more stability. 

The care assistant will take your baby’s vitals and measurements, as usual, review how the child is doing, answer your questions, and let you know what to expect in the coming two months.  Additionally, at this visit, we will start discussing introducing solid foods to your baby, a fun new adventure!

Your infant will also receive his second set of vaccines, the exact same one they received at the 2-month visit.  This is the second of three of their primary series vaccines.

The Fifth Check-Up: 6 Months

The half-year mark is a major milestone in a baby’s life. Their personality will have emerged and begun to shine through as they engage more with you, their family, and the world around them. By this age , they may begin to sit on their own, enjoy looking at their reflection in mirrors and show emotional responses to others. 

Your pediatrician will take your baby’s vitals and measurements as usual, then discuss some of the 6-month-old milestones to expect. If you are worried about your baby’s development, the doctor will listen intently and offer reassurance and guidance.

If your baby is not mobile, does not sit up or hold things, does not laugh or smile, or does not respond to its caretakers, then make sure you bring these issues up with your doctor. 

The final 4 vaccines of the primary series will be administered at this visit by the pediatrician. During flu season, your baby is eligible to receive its first influenza vaccine. This is administered to children in 2 doses roughly 1 month apart. 

The Sixth Check-Up: 9 Months

A 9-month-old is curious, adventurous, and always interested in the world around them. They will be eating solid foods 2-3x a day in addition to breast milk and formula and are starting to express their independence. At this stage , most babies are very vocal and have some ability to move. 

They will have a range of emotional expressions from deep frowns to big, happy smiles. They can also express anger and frustration more clearly, so it will be easier to differentiate their cries and understand their feelings. 

Your pediatrician will ensure the baby’s growth is on par with their sex and age. Then, they will begin to discuss their oral hygiene, as your baby may have a tooth erupted. . If you are concerned about any developmental delays, they can be addressed during this time.

Lack of emotional response, limited eye contact, infrequent mobility, and poor motor skills can indicate an issue that the doctor should know about. They can address these concerns and, if need be, refer you and your baby to a specialist. 

Bear in mind that every baby is unique, and some children reach milestones later without having any major conditions.

The Seventh Check-Up: 1 Year

As you celebrate your child’s first year of life, your pediatrician will offer advice on how to nurture them through late infancy into early toddlerhood. Over the next year, they will experience many changes to their cognitive, mental, and emotional development.

Your baby’s personality will emerge even more from this point forward, especially as they become more mobile, taking first steps, and communicative, saying first words and phrases.

At the 12-month-old check-up , your baby will undergo a blood test that checks lead level and hemoglobin screening, which checks for anemia . 

The 1-year mark is also time for babies to receive the following vaccines:

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)

Chickenpox (varicella)

Hepatitis A 

Their final boosters of DTaP and Hib vaccines will be given at their 15-month check-up, and their final Hepatitis A vaccine and PCV vaccine will be completed at the 18-month visit.

Your Baby’s Health Journey Starts Here

At Juno, we provide comprehensive healthcare for the entire family. Our medical team includes board-certified pediatricians who take the time to listen to your experiences, hear your concerns, and ensure your baby gets the highest quality care. If you are looking for a long-term practice to nurture your baby, schedule an appointment with Juno Pediatrics today .

Complete Guide to Newborn Doctor Visits: What to Expect and How to Prepare

1. Introduction

Going to the doctor for the first time may seem like just another task to add to the newborn care checklist, but your newborn doctor visit is an opportunity to meet the person who will help guide you through all the early health-related milestones of your baby’s development. These early visits are about more than just vaccinations; they’re also your chance to receive important information about newborn and infant care and sign up for illnesses and progress reports throughout your child’s formative years. Attend to the most urgent items on the to-do list now, and then do lots of bonding at home with your new family. After all, there are only so many days in that precious newborn window.

So, you’ve made it through delivery, and you’re finally home with your baby. Congratulations! Now that you’ve said goodbye to the hospital, it’s time to make an appointment with the pediatrician. Those first few times your newborn doctor visit are not all that different from the whirlwind of appointments you may have had during pregnancy. They can take hours and require lots of paperwork and possibly more than one different office visit. And with not a lot of sleep, you may spend the entire time worrying about what’s on the horizon. That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to make this essential — if somewhat exhausting — process as smooth as possible so that you have the time to connect with your baby, not with the medical office.

1.1. Purpose of the Guide

Running a practice that requires frequent visits from newborns is a balancing act for a pediatrician. Not only are they checking the baby’s weight gain and growth progress, they are also advising and addressing any general health and feeding concerns, ensuring all immunizations are up to date, and providing the millions of instructions new parents crave regarding their new family member. Pediatricians are certainly busy—and have no guarantee of making even a minimal income. That’s right, but of business to the job.

You may have heard that newborns end up seeing a doctor early and often. That’s because babies change quickly during the first month of life. Some of these changes can be a little worrisome. That’s why your baby’s pediatrician is going to want to keep a close eye on one vital sign: weight. Knowing what to expect at your baby’s doctor visits can make some of these new experiences less stressful. They’re very focused on the health and well-being of the most precious patients: your baby. The information gathered during those visits helps to provide a safe and solid start to a long, healthy life.

2. Importance of Newborn Doctor Visits

Pediatricians are not just looking out for your newborn but for the health of parents as well. These appointments may be the first opportunity new parents have to ask questions and talk about their worries. It’s not always easy to find the time in those first few weeks with a new baby to make calls, so making the appointments before the baby is born can help ease everyone’s stress. Knowing when to expect the next visit also helps to keep the baby’s health on track because before you know it, the newborn will be growing and changing so quickly, you’ll wish time would slow down.

First-time parents might wonder why so many doctor visits are scheduled when all the baby seems to do is sleep, eat, or cry. After all, they may feel they are doing a fine job and the baby is growing. But newborn checkups are important to make sure that the baby is on the right track, getting the best care, and to answer any questions parents may have. The good news is that it won’t take much time; the appointments tend to be brief unless health questions crop up. Parents can expect to leave sunken-eyed but reassured.

2.1. Ensuring Baby’s Health and Development

These assessments are important because they will confirm for you that baby is growing and getting good nourishment, which are good things for parents to know. Keep in mind that not only will baby’s first check-ups be supervised to make sure baby is doing what he needs to, and getting the right nutrients from mom and the right percentiles of growth measurements. These visits also give you an excellent opportunity to discuss any “new parent” concerns you might have. You need fresh parenting advice and information, so simply write down anything on your mind, or ask the experienced medical staff to advise you on any health or “behavior” changes going on with tiny baby.

Now that you have a baby to take to the doctor, it can be a good thing to make sure he has plenty of office hours. Because seeing your doctor is one of the best things you can do for your new baby’s health and development. Right now, baby will get a lot of assessments to make sure everything is going as it should – from height and weight checks, to head measurements. The doctor will assess baby’s 5 different “vitals,” remember by using the acronym “HAELS” which stands for: Height (length), Appetite, Eliminations, Length of sleep, and the baby’s Skin tone and skin softness.

3. Choosing a Pediatrician

Go ahead and ask around for word-of-mouth referrals from friends and family members. It kind of helps if these people have had kids themselves or just like kids. You could also consult online sites for physician ratings and your insurance company to find in-network providers. Once you have a list of prospects, find out more about them. Do you prefer a man or woman? A small private office or a large group practice? Is location important for emergencies, or can you travel further for top-notch care? And incumbent parents, what say you? What might you have liked to know going in?

Your search for a pediatrician should start well before your baby is born. You don’t need to have a pediatrician at the ready when the baby’s born – you’re in the hospital, after all – but resting assured that you have someone in place can be a good thing. If you don’t, it’s not the end of the world. In-hospital pediatricians tend to be stellar. And if you’re joining a hospital tour ahead of time, it’s a good chance to ask questions and get a sense of their healthcare philosophy. Then, let the office know that your soon-to-arrive bambino needs a doctor. The staff will tell you whether they’re accepting new patients and will provide insurance and hospital information, which you’ll need to file a proof-of-birth certificate before they even consider discharging you and your baby.

Welcome to parenthood! You’re about to embark on one of the toughest jobs you’ll ever love. A pediatrician can help ease the transition. But that leaves some of the “tough” part to you – picking someone you trust to take care of your child’s health! Here’s how.

3.1. Factors to Consider

It would be ideal that the pediatrician is willing to listen to whatever it is the parents would like to impart, more so, to address questions and concerns about the health and growth of the newborn. Pediatrics is a partnership between parents and the pediatrician.

Experience is crucial, especially on the part of first-time parents so they can be given a fair chance on what to expect when the baby comes into the picture. Knowing how experienced the doctor is can give you a clearer picture of his care and treatment.

Research on the professional background of the doctor – his academic education, training, and board certifications if any. It is important for every parent to know if the doctor is highly competent to handle a newborn, what hospitals he is affiliated with, and his standing in the local medical community.

When it comes to choosing a baby doctor, several factors must be taken into consideration to ensure he is the right one for your child. First on the list is the family pediatrician. Many organizations advocate parents to get in touch with the family pediatrician even before the baby is born so mother, father, and the pediatrician can sit down and discuss important matters relevant to the needs of the baby. You will find it very comforting when you go into labor because you know the family pediatrician is just a phone call away.

4. First Doctor Visit: What to Expect

What’s important about the first visit is that it gives you and your baby’s pediatrician a chance to establish your baby’s baseline health, so that the pediatrician knows what is normal for your baby, and can then monitor her as she grows and develops. Establishing rapport and trust with your baby’s pediatrician is important. Before your baby even arrives, you will want to be sure that the pediatrician’s philosophy and communication style is in line with your parent perspective. Remember, each baby is different and, working together, you and the pediatrician will learn how to maintain your baby’s health.

The first visit to any doctor with your newborn can be overwhelming, but of all the doctor visits you will have, the first could be the most comforting because your baby’s pediatrician will likely ask many of the questions racing through your mind. Feeding and sleeping concerns, jaundice, what to do in an emergency, safety – these are just a few things to review during this first visit to your baby’s doctor. A pediatrician typically sees you and your baby when she’s brand new to perform a newborn checkup in the hospital. However, your first appointment in the doctor’s office will be scheduled for a few days to a week after you are discharged.

4.1. Medical History and Family Health

It is essential to talk to your doctor and give them a comprehensive list of known diseases in both sides of your family. It can be also important to talk to doctors about any non-biological offspring. For example, how would that change the nature of your baby’s family health history and what tests may be recommended? Children share 50% of their genetic history with their biological mother and 50% with their biological father. They share 14% of genetic ancestry from biological grandparents, 7% from great-grandparents, and only 3.5% with great-great-grandparents. Knowing the complete genetic family history can help the pediatrician understand the trigger concerns that may not be apparent in you or your baby right now, but could develop later. This information can also help with screening and support early interventions.

No one knows your baby more intimately than their parents. You will essentially become your baby’s primary care provider. Given this, it is important to have open and honest, and long conversations with your pediatrician about your baby. This can include what your birth and prenatal experiences were like, personal experiences, family experiences, your birth story, what your baby was like in the delivery room and in the days since you have been home. Share with your doctor all of the vaccinations that your baby has received prior to visiting the office for the first time and talk to them about any plans or fears you have about vaccination moving forward. But even more important than discussing these routine topics are open conversations about family health history and any personal medical history.

5. Preparing for Doctor Visits

If your baby is taking more time to develop basic motor or facial control, learning to build social relationships and interact with their immediate and much broader world, standing when held or held in a standing posture for age-appropriate reasons, or reaching up for objects and attempting to grab them, your baby is exhibiting early signs consistent with certain developmental disorders. If your baby, a child in pain, or a medical professional has profound concerns, your baby, a child, or a medical professional should promptly request and initiate a developmental evaluation and comprehensive assessment to determine the problems that are present and where the delays are originating within the child’s family life. Your baby will benefit from developmental milestones checkups and appropriate developmental surveillance because parents, caregivers, and families are uniquely positioned to get to know their newborn baby. As a loving family friend or caring family member, older siblings and grandparents are responsible for screening and identifying potential unaddressed health issues that could lead to behavior or school problems, unravel the social fabric and parenting capabilities of the family, and impact the health and well-being of the child as they develop.

Think of the experience as a lifelong habit you’ll be helping your baby form to support lifetime wellness and make time with the doctor pleasant and comfortable, for both yourself and your baby. That’s what happens when you’re prepared and know what to expect. Make a quick and easy checklist of the essential items to pack in your baby’s diaper bag for doctor visits. Having your baby’s diaper bag already packed and ready to go can help to make these frequent trips more efficient – and unnecessary stress-free days. Review some of the tests your baby may need or your doctor may suggest, based on their health, your family history and how long it has been since your little one was last seen. The purpose of testing the blood or other samples from your baby at one of these visits is for the baby to achieve optimal health and the best start in life – any testing increases the chances of identifying any developmental, emotional, physical or social gaps that need to be addressed and corrected, in a very timely manner for the best possible long-term outcomes.

5.1. Organizing Documents and Questions

Also, write down all of the questions that arise so that you don’t break out in hives once you get to the appointment and can’t think of them. Well visits are a perfect time to ask about any health or concerns you have. Ask all your questions. Make sure to bring a list of any questions you have so that you don’t forget in the office. You might have some but not all of your questions answered. Most often, the nurse will review the normal baby nonsense during this visit. If she doesn’t, you will want to be able to ask her some questions about feeding, diapering, and, most important of all, sleeping patterns. These are important factors for survival in the first few months. And relaxation is important for your baby’s development so everyone else can benefit.

Before you go to the visit, it helps to have all of the important documents and questions ready as you lead up to the appointment. Some parents compile an all-in-one baby book of important medical documents and instructions. It’s a good idea to create a baby medical binder for all of your important medical-related documents. Initially, this will include basic documents like the child’s birth certificate and any hospital documents (medical release forms, hospital instructions, etc.). Over time, you will add recommended well visit schedules, newborn checkup findings, and vaccination records.

Curious to learn more? Visit us for additional information!

Questions About Newborn Doctor Visits? Here Are the Answers Every Parent Needs

References:

Verbeek, Hilde, et al. “Allowing visitors back in the nursing home during the COVID-19 crisis: A Dutch national study into first experiences and impact on well-being.” Journal of the American Medical Directors Association 21.7 (2020): 900-904. nih.gov

Gomez, Teresita, et al. “A qualitative study of primary care physicians’ experiences with telemedicine during COVID-19.” The Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine 34.Supplement (2021): S61-S70. jabfm.org

Imlach, Fiona, et al. “Telehealth consultations in general practice during a pandemic lockdown: survey and interviews on patient experiences and preferences.” BMC family practice 21 (2020): 1-14. springer.com

Gorodeski, Eiran Z., et al. “Virtual visits for care of patients with heart failure in the era of COVID-19: a statement from the Heart Failure Society of America.” Journal of Cardiac Failure 26.6 (2020): 448-456. nih.gov

World Health Organization, 2020 “Guidance on COVID-19 for the care of older people and people living in long-term care facilities, other non-acute care facilities and home care.” 2020. who.int

Gordon, Howard S., et al. ““I’m not feeling like I’m part of the conversation” patients’ perspectives on communicating in clinical video telehealth visits.” Journal of general internal medicine 35 (2020): 1751-1758. springer.com

White, Mathew P., et al. “Blue space, health and well-being: A narrative overview and synthesis of potential benefits.” Environmental research 191 (2020): 110169. sciencedirect.com

Puri, Vikram, Aman Kataria, and Vishal Sharma. “Artificial intelligence‐powered decentralized framework for Internet of Things in Healthcare 4.0.” Transactions on Emerging Telecommunications Technologies 35.4 (2024): e4245. wiley.com

White, Mathew P., et al. “Associations between green/blue spaces and mental health across 18 countries.” Scientific reports 11.1 (2021): 8903. nature.com

Ross, Samuel Wade, et al. “Maximizing the calm before the storm: tiered surgical response plan for novel coronavirus (COVID-19).” Journal of the American College of Surgeons 230.6 (2020): 1080-1091. nih.gov

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What Your Baby's First Pediatrician Appointment Will Be Like

Pediatricians may be the next best thing to a handbook for newborns., by sharon brandwein | fact checked by shannon vestal robson.

Whether it’s your first baby or your third, bringing a new life into the world is no easy feat. The parenting journey is long, and having your own little “village” will help you navigate any bumps in the road. But with everything that your support network of friends and family can do , they can’t do it all.

That’s why your pediatrician should be a key part of your village, too. Not only do they offer support when it comes to your baby’s development, but they’re also there to answer all the weird questions that come with being a new parent, like whether your baby’s poop is normal or why your baby sleeps with their eyes open (seriously, it happens).

Every parent wants to give their child a healthy start in life, and doing so begins with baby’s first pediatrician visit, also known as a well-baby visit or well-child visit. In what will be the first of many, your baby’s doctor will check in on your little one soon after they’re discharged from the hospital to ensure everything is on track. During this visit, the doctor will not only examine your baby from tip to toe, but they’ll also take the time to answer questions you might have.

When do newborns have their first doctor appointment?

“Your newborn’s appointment should be within one to two days after discharge from the hospital,” says Dr. Emily Wisniewski, a pediatrician with Mercy Family Care Physicians . “Some babies can wait a little bit longer, three to five days even, provided there were no concerns about feeding, significant weight loss or jaundice . But otherwise, you [and your baby] should be checked on soon after discharge to make sure your baby is growing and feeding well.”

It’s worth noting that after your baby’s initial visit to the pediatrician, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends well-baby visits at regular intervals of one to three months for the first two years of your baby’s life. The recommended schedule for pediatrician appointments includes checkups at these ages:

• One month old
• Two months old
• Three months old
• Four months old
• Six months old
• Nine months old
• Twelve months old
• Fifteen months old
• Eighteen months old
• Twenty-four months old

Schedules can vary widely from doctor to doctor, so if you’re concerned about getting an appointment in time for the above age milestones, consider calling ahead (before your due date) to get a better idea of how busy your preferred pediatrician will be. There’s no harm in being proactive and scheduling your appointment in advance.

What happens during baby’s first doctor appointment?

Doctors and nurses cover a lot of ground during the first visit to the pediatrician, Dr. Wisniewski says.

“We get to know the family—especially if they’re new to the practice or a first-time parent—and ask questions about feeding, peeing and pooping, safety in the home regarding safe sleep, smoke detectors/guns in the home and other family members in the home,” she says. “We’ll also do a postpartum depression screening to check in on parents as well as baby.” In addition to the baby’s physical exam, Wisniewski says doctors will often leave time to “address any questions or concerns the parents have.”

But before the doctor even arrives, there are a few administrative tasks to take care of. Once you’ve filled out any required paperwork, the nurse will probably be the next person you see. Ahead of the doctor’s exam, the nurse will weigh your baby and measure their length (head to foot while laying on the exam table) and head circumference. They’ll then log everything on a growth chart that shows what percentile your baby is measuring.

Incidentally, your baby will need to be naked to get the most accurate measurements, so you’ll want to make sure you have an extra diaper on hand—but more on that later.

After the nurse has all the measurements and numbers plotted, the pediatrician will examine your little one from head to toe. This includes:

Checking baby’s head: Your doctor will palm your baby’s head to check for a still-soft fontanel, which you may know as the soft spot. Your baby’s head circumference should increase by about 4 inches within their first year, and the soft spots on their skull are designed to accommodate that growth. However, if they close up too quickly, that could be cause for concern.

Checking baby’s neck and collarbone: The doctor will feel your baby’s bones along the neck and collarbone to check for any breaks or fractures that occurred during delivery.

Checking baby’s hips: Pediatricians often roll babies’ hips to look for any signs of hip dysplasia. They’ll do this at every well-baby visit until your little one takes their first steps.

Testing baby’s reflexes: During this visit and the four that follow, your pediatrician will assess your baby’s Moro reflex (also known as the startle reflex). Typically, the Moro reflex test simulates falling. It involves placing the baby face up on a soft padded surface, lifting their head slightly above their body, then gently letting it fall into the doctor’s hand. The doctor is looking for your baby to extend their arms and draw them back quickly (what all of us do when we feel like we’re falling).

Your pediatrician will also check your baby’s rooting reflex and sucking reflex. To check the rooting reflex, they’ll touch or stroke your baby’s cheek to gauge whether or not baby automatically turns their head to that side and opens their mouth. To check the sucking reflex, the doctor will place a gloved finger in your baby’s mouth to see whether they start sucking.

Checking baby’s femoral pulse: Pediatricians typically check the baby’s pulse via the femoral artery. A weak femoral artery pulse could be a sign of a heart condition.

Checking baby’s genitalia: At every appointment, your pediatrician will check on the development of your baby’s genitalia. In this case, they’re looking for signs of infection from circumcisions and following up on undescended scrotums or labial adhesions.

Examining the umbilical stump: Doctors will also check on how the umbilical stump is healing and offer some guidance for care until it falls off on its own—usually within one to three weeks after birth.

Vaccinations during baby’s first doctor visit

Baby’s first official checkup and first immunizations will take place at the hospital or birthing center within the first 24 hours after they’re born. Typically, baby won’t get any shots during their first visit to the pediatrician, but “if your baby didn’t receive the Hepatitis B vaccine in the hospital (usually given prior to discharge), then your infant should receive this at their first pediatrician appointment,” Dr. Wisniewski says.

Questions your pediatrician will ask

Throughout the exam, the doctor will ask questions about baby’s routine, including:

• Feeding patterns and schedule: While you don’t necessarily need to keep a food diary, you should be prepared to communicate how often and how much your baby eats. This is also a good opportunity to share any questions or concerns you have about feeding baby.
• Baby’s digestive system: Peeing and pooping are indicators of overall health, so expect your pediatrician to ask questions about how many wet diapers your baby has each day and how often they’re pooping, as well as the color and consistency of their poop.
• Sleeping patterns: Your baby’s doctor will also check in on how your baby is sleeping , and they’ll likely go over safe sleeping guidelines.

What to bring to the first checkup

The short answer here is simply to bring your diaper bag . Remember that you’ll need to remove baby’s clothes and diaper for the nurse to take their measurements and get an accurate weight, so it’s a good idea to bring along at least one fresh diaper and a blanket in case it’s cold.

Dr. Wisniewski also suggests bringing the discharge summary of your baby’s hospital stay. “It helps the doctor know what happened in the hospital and if any follow-up is needed (like checking for jaundice),” she says.

Questions to ask the doctor at baby’s first appointment

While your baby’s pediatrician will ask plenty of questions about your baby’s general health, this is also the time for you to ask any and all questions you may have about your newborn.

Common questions that new parents often have include:

• How do I know if my baby ate enough ?
• What should I do if my baby is not drinking enough breast milk ?
• Should I give supplements to my baby?
• How can I store my breast milk?
• How can I help my baby latch on to my breast?
• What’s the best way to soothe or care for sore nipples ?
• How many naps should my baby take?
• How many hours a day should my baby sleep ?
• Is it okay if I wake up my baby to eat?
• How can I help my baby stay asleep ?
• Is it safe for my baby to sleep on their back ?
• How can I try to avoid sudden infant death syndrome?
• Where should my baby sleep?
• When will my baby sleep through the night?

Helpful hint: Keep a digital note or write down all the questions you have for your baby’s doctor. There’s a lot of ground to cover on your baby’s first visit to the pediatrician, and if your little one is fussing or crying the whole time, you can easily get flustered and forget your questions. Keeping an actual note is the best way to ensure you walk out of the appointment with all your questions answered. But even if think of more questions after you’ve already left the doctor’s office (and you will), don’t worry—this is just the first of many routine visits, and your pediatrician is here to guide you through it all.

Sharon Brandwein

Sharon Brandwein is a Certified Sleep Science Coach and a freelance writer. She specializes in parenting, health, and of course, all things sleep. Sharon’s work has also appeared on ABC News, USAToday, Parents, and Forbes. When she’s not busy writing, you might find her somewhere curating a wardrobe for her puppy.

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What to Expect at Baby’s First Doctor’s Visit

Welcoming a new baby is a time of joy and excitement. But for many, especially new parents, it is also a time of anxiety and stress. At Summit Health, our pediatricians are here to guide you through the ups and downs of the newborn stage and answer your questions about common concerns like feeding, sleeping, and development.

Knowing what to expect at your newborn’s first pediatrician visit can help you stay organized and get the most out of your checkup. Babies should come in for their first appointment within two to three days of leaving the hospital. Sometimes the doctor may recommend you visit the pediatrician the day after discharge if your baby needs to be checked sooner.

“It is important to attend all scheduled visits throughout the first year of life and beyond,” says Catalina Scarfone, DO, a pediatrician at Summit Health. “There are many things that are reviewed and discussed according to the child's age and individual progress. As pediatricians, we can provide the most well-rounded care for children when working together with parents. Together, we can ensure good communication, adherence to visits and recommendations, and provide thorough education every step of the way.”

Prepare Ahead of Time

Taking a newborn out of the house can be overwhelming. Leave for the appointment 15 minutes early so you are not in a rush. Babies can be unpredictable—they may need to eat or have a diaper change—and this will give you plenty of time to organize yourself in the waiting area.

Ask your physician’s office if they have a separate newborn waiting room that keeps their tiniest patients isolated from older children who may be sick. If there is not a dedicated area, find a seat in the corner several feet away from other patients. It is also a good idea to keep the car seat covered while walking through public spaces.

“It is normal to feel worried about bringing your baby out in public during the pandemic,” says Erica Gennaro, MD , another pediatrician at Summit Health. “We try to group well visits together to prevent overlap with sick visits. The rooms are also thoroughly cleaned between patients. Parents should wear a mask and wash their hands before leaving the office.”

What to Bring to the Appointment

Parents should bring their discharge paperwork from the hospital as well as their insurance card. Remember to pack the diaper bag with all the essentials—a change of clothes, diapers, an extra bottle of formula if you are not breastfeeding, a pacifier if your baby uses one, and a blanket to put underneath your baby when the doctor is examining them on the table. Dress your bundle of joy in loose-fitting clothing that can be easily removed, such as a onesie.

Usually, pediatricians recommend bringing your partner or another caregiver; however, Dr. Scarfone explains that while COVID-19 protocols are in place, we are only allowing one caregiver to be in the room for the appointment. “We do ask the partner to call in, and some even choose to FaceTime so they can really be present for the visit,” she says.

Be Ready for Paperwork

Before you go into the exam room, the receptionist will ask you to fill out several documents. You will be asked about your pregnancy, delivery, and medical history. The pediatrician will want to know if there were any complications during your pregnancy or birth.

Checking the Essentials

A typical appointment lasts about 30 minutes. When you are called into the exam room, you will be asked to undress the baby. The nurse or medical assistant will then measure the baby’s weight, height, and head circumference. They will also check vital signs, including heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature.

Dr. Gennaro encourages her patients to breastfeed during the appointment if it is helpful. “A common misconception is that we are uncomfortable with you breastfeeding in the room,” she says. “On the contrary, we encourage it. Breastfeeding keeps babies calm while we talk to you, and we want them to get the nutrition they need.”

The Doctor is In

The pediatrician will examine your baby thoroughly from head to toe, paying special attention to their skin, head, eyes, ears, nose, mouth/tongue, clavicles, heart, lungs, umbilical cord, belly, back, and extremities.​​ Dr. Gennaro says the most common problems they may find, and recommend further testing for, include jaundice (yellowing of the skin), heart murmurs, hip instability, or dimples at the base of the spine.

Your pediatrician will ask about the baby’s feeding schedule, along with wet and dirty diapers, and review safety measures such as umbilical cord care, use of car seats, and water temperature for bathing. Finally, if your baby did not have a hepatitis B shot at the hospital, they will administer one. Other vaccinations are not due until the baby is 2 months old.

Do not be alarmed if your infant has lost weight—it is perfectly normal. Most babies gain this weight back by their next checkup in two weeks. “A lot of the visit will be about feeding your baby and making sure that they are getting enough nutrition to grow,” describes Dr. Gennaro. “Your baby will be weighed, and the doctor will talk about how it compares to their weight at birth.”

Time for Questions

At the end of the appointment, there will be time to ask all your questions. Write down the questions you have for the doctor ahead of time. Some patients are nervous about speaking up at their first visit, but do not be shy. The pediatrician schedules in plenty of time to listen to your concerns—and every question is welcome!

“The most common misconception parents have is that we are annoyed by all of your questions. It is normal to be a little overwhelmed, tired, confused, and worried, but we are here to support you,” says Dr. Gennaro. “If we do not have enough time to answer your questions at the first visit, we can always schedule another in-person or virtual visit to talk more.”

Some of the most common questions new parents have include:

• Is my baby eating enough? Is spitting up normal?
• What can I do to get my baby on a regular sleep schedule?
• Is my baby’s behavior normal? What developmental milestones should I see in the coming weeks?
• How many times a day should I need to change my baby’s diaper? Does the baby’s stool look normal?
• Should I put anything on my newborn’s skin rashes?
• Why is their breathing so noisy?
• How do I care for my baby’s umbilical cord?
• When should I come back for an appointment?

In the first newborn visit haze, many parents forget what the doctor said by the time they get home. Bring a pen and paper with you and take notes. For your convenience, the physicians at Summit Health will also send you a summary of the appointment through the patient portal for you to reference.

Advice for Parents

Dr. Scarfone also recommends these helpful tips to help keep your baby healthy and safe.

• Monitor newborn's feedings. In the newborn period, it is important to ensure that the baby is feeding at least every 2 to 3 hours. They should be averaging 8-12 feedings in a 24-hour period. Watch for hunger cues such as rooting (turning head with mouth open), crying, or putting hands in their mouth. “Feedings at these times is what we refer to as 'on demand.' Ensuring adequate feedings, even if it means waking them up when they are sleeping in the first few days, will help ensure adequate nutrition and growth.” 
• Holding a baby too much will not spoil them. “It is impossible to spoil a newborn. Listen to your baby's cues and be attentive to their needs especially in the first few months.”
• Babies do not need daily baths: “We advise waiting to give baths until the umbilical cord has completely fallen off. You can keep the baby clean with warm water and wipes. Make sure the cord area remains as dry as possible. Once the cord falls off, daily baths can dry out the skin. Every other day or so is perfectly fine during this period.”
• Avoid co-sleeping. “We recommend against parents and infants sharing a bed because of the significantly increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). To reduce this risk, it is also advised that infants be placed on their back when they sleep.”

See You Next Time

The next appointment will depend on whether there is any need for follow-up, explains Dr. Scarfone. At this age, pediatricians are most concerned with the baby gaining enough weight. Most babies come back for their next visit at 2 weeks of age. Plan to see your pediatrician at least six times throughout the first year. 

“If the baby is losing weight, we will typically have you return in a few days or a week to monitor weight gain, or if the umbilical area was cauterized and needs to be monitored, that would be a weekly check as well,” explains Dr. Scarfone.

Preparing for Your Newborn’s First Doctor Visit: A Checklist for Parents

• Ask your partner or another caregiver to join you on the phone for the appointment.
• Check if there is a newborn waiting area at the office.
• Dress the baby in loose-fitting, easily removable clothing.
• Pack diaper bag essentials — a change of clothes, diapers, wipes, bottle of formula if not breastfeeding, a pacifier if your baby uses one, and special blanket.
• Bring your insurance card and any documents from the hospital.
• Write down a list of questions to ask the doctor.
• Have a pen and paper handy to take notes.
• Take a deep breath. Relax and remember your pediatrician is here to help you and baby!

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• Toddler Sleep
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What to Expect at Well-Child Visits

On This Page

Well-child visit schedule.

• Newborn Well-Child Visit
• Baby Well-Child Visits

1-Month Well-Child Visit

2-month well-child visit, 4-month well-child visit, 6-month well-child visit, 9-month well-child visit, 12-month well-child visit, toddler well-child visits, 15-month well-child visit, 18-month well-child visit, 24-month well-child visit, 30-month well-child visit, 3-year well-child visit.

• Vaccines Schedule From 0-2 Years

While it’s a no-brainer that you take your baby or toddler to the doctor when they’re sick, it’s also important to bring your child to the pediatrician for regularly scheduled visits when they are feeling just fine! Enter: The well-child visit. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that each kiddo goes to the doctor within days of birth, then almost monthly, then annually for must-have screenings and assessments. Here’s what to expect at childhood checkups—and when to expect them .

In the first few years of life, you’ll get to know your child’s healthcare provider very well.

Typical child well visit schedule:

• Within 3 to 5 days of birth
• Annually after 3 years

What to Expect at the Newborn Well-Child Visit

Congrats! You just brought your baby home from the hospital…now pack up the diaper bag and head to their very first visit to the pediatrician! (Still haven’t secured your baby’s pediatrician? Use our guide to help you find the perfect doc .) All newborns need a first-week checkup within 3 to 5 days from birth.

What to bring to Newborn Well-Child Visit

Beyond your sweet babe, you may need to bring all your hospital paperwork, which should contain info about your baby’s discharge weight and/or any possible complications that occurred during pregnancy or birth. Some hospitals and practices use online charts that multiple providers can access, but if yours doesn’t, you’ll want to have that information on hand. (If you’re unsure, just ask!)

Newborn Well-Child Visit Vaccines

If your little one did not receive the Hepatitis B (HepB) vaccine while at the hospital, they should receive the first HepB vaccine dose now.

Newborn Well-Child Visit Screenings

Your baby’s pediatrician will likely tackle the following screening measure and exams:

Your baby will be measured and weighed to ensure they’re growing as expected.

Baby’s head, ears, eyes, and mouth will be examined.

Baby’s skin will be looked at for birthmarks or rashes.

The doctor will review the results of two newborn screenings your baby received shortly after birth: hearing and blood test results. (Rescreening may be done.)

If your baby did not have their hearing screened at the hospital—or if they were born at home or a birthing center, their hearing will be screened .

The pediatrician will press gently on your baby’s tummy to check organs and for an umbilical hernia.

They’ll also move your baby’s legs to check for dislocation or other issues with their hip joints.

Your baby’s genitalia will be examined for signs of infection, such as tenderness or lumps.

What to Expect at Baby Well-Child Visits

During the first year of your baby’s life, they will visit the pediatrician every month or so for a well-child checkup. All first-year well-visits entail the following:

Baby’s weight and height will be recorded.

The pediatrician will check on your baby’s developmental milestones.

Baby’s heart rate and breathing will be checked.

The doctor will examine your baby’s skin.

They’ll also press on Baby’s belly to detect enlarged organs or an umbilical hernia.

Baby’s legs and hips will be checked for dislocation or other joint problems.

Baby’s genitalia will be inspected for signs of infection.

Beyond the screenings listed above, you can also expect:

Your little one may receive the HepB vaccine, though sometimes this occurs at Baby’s two-month checkup.

Mom will be screened for postpartum depression. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends moms be screened for postpartum depression (PPD) during well-child visits at 1, 2, 4, and 6 months of age.

If your baby is breastfeeding or consuming less than 27 ounces a day of vitamin-D containing baby formula, the pediatrician will offer advice about vitamin D supplementation .

Possible questions about feeding, sleep, number of wet and dirty diapers, and other 1-month milestones

Beyond the screenings listed above, you can expect:

Baby is set to receive the following vaccinations: RV, DTap, Hib, PCV13, and IPV.

Mom will be screened for postpartum depression .

Possible questions about feeding, sleep, number of wet and dirty diapers, tummy time , and other 2-month milestones

Your bub will likely receive the following vaccinations: RV, DTap, Hib, PCV13, and IPV.

Mom will be screened for postpartum depression.

Blood may be drawn to screen for anemia , which is a condition marked by a low supply of healthy red blood cells.

If your baby is partially or completely breastfed, the doctor will offer advice about introducing an iron supplement . 

Possible questions about sleep regression , babbling, Baby’s gums, teething, starting solids soon, when/how to introduce allergens , and other 4-month milestones

Your baby will likely get the following vaccinations: DTap, Hib, and PCV13. If your bub received the PedvaxHIB vaccine, they don’t require a 6-month Hib shot. If your Baby received the RotaTeq (RV5) vaccine, they’ll get their third dose now.

If your baby’s 6-month well-visit falls during flu season, they should get the recommended flu shot —with the second dose four weeks later. If it’s not flu season, your pediatrician will advise you when to return to get this important vaccine.

Fluoride varnish may be applied if your bub’s first tooth has popped through (most babies start cutting teeth around this age).

Possible questions about starting solids, introducing nuts , teething, and sleep, and other 6-month baby milestones

If your baby hasn’t yet received their third HepB and IPV shots, they may get them now. Technically, babies can get either of these vaccines between 6 and 18 months, and many doctors opt to give them during the 9-month checkup.

Your baby’s pediatrician will conduct a more formal developmental screening than usual, asking several questions about your little one’s growth and behavior. The doc may even ask if they can observe you and your little one playing together. All of this is to see whether your baby is developing at an expected rate or further testing is needed.

Possible questions about pointing, babyproofing , sippy cups, constipation, and other 9-month baby milestones

Baby will likely receive the following vaccinations: Hib, PCV13, MMR, VAR, HepA (second dose around 6 months later). Your little is eligible for all these vaccines at their one-year checkup, but that doesn’t mean they’ll occur all at once. For example, babies should receive Hib, PCV13, MMR, VAR vaccines between 12 and 15 months. And you have until 23 months to tick the HepA shot off your list.

Your baby may be screened for anemia .

Based on your little one’s risk, their hearing, vision, blood pressure, and/or their blood lead levels may be tested.

Possible questions about crawling, walking, talking, transitioning to whole milk , and other first-year baby milestones

During Baby’s first year, doctor appointments were coming at you in rapid succession. But now that you’ve got a toddler on your hands, the time between well-visits widens. Between 15 months old and your bub’s third birthday, you’ll be back at the pediatrician’s office just five times for checkups. Here’s what you can expect at every well visit: 

Your toddler’s weight and height will be recorded.

The pediatrician will check on your tot’s developmental milestones.

Your toddler’s head, ears, eyes, and mouth will be examined.

Toddler’s heart rate and breathing will be checked.

A skin examination will likely occur.

The doctor will press on your child’s belly to feel organs and for an umbilical hernia.

Your toddler's genitalia will be looked at for signs of infection, such as tenderness or lumps.

Depending on which vaccines your child got at their 12-month visit, they may be due for Hib, PCV13, MMR, VAR, which are all recommended between 12 and 15 months.

Your toddler may be checked for anemia.

Based on specific risk factors, your toddler may have their vision, hearing, and/or blood pressure checked, too.

If your tot has already received a fluoride varnish on their teeth, a second application may occur .

Possible questions about sleep, motor skills, social skills, eating, talking, and constipation, and other 15-month milestones

Depending on which immunizations your kiddo got during their last well visit, they may be due for HepA with a second dose about 6 months later and/or DTap

Based on your child’s risk factors—or possible concerns—your tot’s pediatrician may screen for anemia or lead poisoning, do a blood pressure check, and/or conduct a hearing or vision test.

In addition to regular developmental surveillance and screening, all 18-month-olds need a formal screening for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at their well-child visit. There are several screening tool options, but the 23-point questionnaire called the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers–Revised with follow-u (M-CHAT-R/F) is the most common screening tool used in pediatric offices.

Possible questions about sleep, eating, motor skills, play habits, potty training, tantrums, and other 18-month milestones

Once your tot is 2 years old, they can get the nasal spray version of the flu shot. (Your toddler is still too young to get their annual jab—or FluMist—at the local pharmacy.)

The AAP recommends all children get screened for autism spectrum disorder at both their 18- and 24-month well-child visits. ( Learn about early autism signs. )

Your child’s doc will likely start using BMI (body mass index) to screen for overweight and obesity in children beginning at 2 years old.

Your child’s doctor may order tests for anemia, lead, high cholesterol, and/or tuberculosis if needed.

Possible questions about sleep, potty training , motor and language development , and other 24-month milestones

Plan for all of the basic well-visit screenings at the 30-month (or two-and-a-half year) checkup. If your toddler is up to date on vaccines and feeling good, not much else happens at this checkup! But just because there’s nothing “big” happening at this well visit, doesn’t mean it’s not important. Remember, these checkups are how doctors track your child’s development. It’s a time to ask questions about your child’s 30-month milestones . And these visits ensure that your toddler is getting the care they need to stay healthy!

While visual acuity screening (seeing details of letters or symbols from a distance) is recommended to begin between the ages 4 and 5, cooperative 3-year-olds can easily be tested, too.

Your child’s blood pressure will be checked.

Again, your child may be checked for anemia, lead, and/or tuberculosis, if needed.

Possible questions about sleep, speech and language development, motor skills, and other 3-year milestones

Well-Child Visit Vaccine Schedule: Birth to 2 Years

The first two years are prime for protecting your child against numerous diseases and infections. Here’s the rundown of the recommended vaccine schedule for your little one’s earliest years:

Vaccines at 1-month checkup: HepB vaccine. Sometimes this occurs at Baby’s two-month checkup, instead.

Vaccines at 2-month checkup: RV, DTap, Hib, PCV13, and IPV

Vaccines at 4-month checkup: RV, DTap, Hib, PCV13, and IPV

Vaccines at 6-month checkup: DTap, Hib, PCV13, flu shot. While all 6-month-olds should receive their annual flu shot, your baby’s 6-month checkup may not occur during flu season. If that’s the case, your baby will receive the vaccine later. Regardless, your child may need a second dose of the flu vaccine four weeks after the first. Also, if your Baby received the RotaTeq, (RV5) vaccine, they’ll get their third dose at 6 months.

Vaccines at 9-month checkup: HepB, IPV (though they can be given as early as 6 months and as late as 18 months)

Vaccines at 12-month checkup: Hib, PCV13, MMR, VAR, HepA (second dose ~6 months later). Your baby is eligible for all these vaccines at their one-year checkup, but that doesn’t mean they will all occur at once. For example, babies should receive Hib, PCV13, MMR, VAR vaccines between 12 and 15 months. And you have until 23 months to tick the HepA shot off your list.

  For a more in-depth look at the recommended vaccine schedule for children, please check out our soup-to-nuts vaccine guide .

• American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): 1st Week Checkup Checklist: 3 to 5 days old
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Recommended Vaccinations for Infants and Children, Parent-Friendly Version
• Nemours Children’s Health: Hearing Tests
• Incorporating Recognition and Management of Perinatal Depression Into Pediatric Practice, Pediatrics, January 2019
• AAP: Where We Stand: Vitamin D & Iron Supplements for Babies
• AAP: Checkup Checklist: 4 Months Old
• AAP: Checkup Checklist: 6 Months Old
• AAP: Checkup Checklist: 9 Months Old
• AAP: Checkup Checklist: First Birthday (12 Months Old)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Important Milestones: Your Baby By Fifteen Months
• AAP: How Pediatricians Screen for Autism
• National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations: Pharmacist Administered Vaccines, Updated August 2022, Based on NASPA Analysis of State Pharmacy Practice Laws   
• CDC: About Child & Teen BMI
• Nemours Children’s Health: Your Child's Checkup: 2 Years (24 Months)

View more posts tagged, health & safety

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Doctor Visits

Make the Most of Your Child’s Visit to the Doctor (Ages 1 to 4 Years)

Take Action

Young children need to see the doctor or nurse for a “well-child visit” 7 times between ages 1 and 4 years.

A well-child visit (also called a checkup) is when you take your child to the doctor to make sure they’re healthy and developing normally. This is different from visits for sickness or injury.

At a well-child 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 questions about things like your child’s behavior, eating habits, and sleeping habits.

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

Well-Child Visits

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

Young children grow quickly, so they need to visit the doctor or nurse regularly to make sure they’re healthy and developing normally.

Children ages 1 to 4 years need to see the doctor or nurse when they’re:

• 12 months old (1 year)
• 15 months old (1 year and 3 months)
• 18 months old (1 year and 6 months)
• 24 months old (2 years)
• 30 months old (2 years and 6 months)
• 3 years old
• 4 years old

If you’re worried about your child’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 child is growing and developing on schedule.

Your child’s doctor or nurse can help you understand how your child is developing and learning to do new things — like walk and talk. These are sometimes called “developmental milestones.”

Every child grows and develops differently. For example, some children will take longer to start talking than others. Learn more about child development .

At each visit, the doctor or nurse will what new things your child is learning to do. They may also ask how you’re feeling and if you need any support.

Ages 12 to 18 Months

By age 12 months, most kids:.

• Stand by holding on to something
• Walk with help, like by holding on to the furniture
• Call a parent "mama," "dada," or some other special name
• Look for a toy they've seen you hide

Check out this complete list of milestones for kids age 12 months .

By age 15 months, most kids:

• Follow simple directions, like "Pick up the toy"
• Show you a toy they like
• Try to use things they see you use, like a cup or a book
• Take a few steps on their own

Check out this complete list of milestones for kids age 15 months.

By age 18 months, most kids:

• Make scribbles with crayons
• Look at a few pages in a book with you
• Try to say 3 or more words besides “mama” or “dada”
• Point to show someone what they want
• Walk on their own
• Try to use a spoon

Check out this complete list of milestones for kids age 18 months . 

Ages 24 to 30 Months

By age 24 months, most kids:.

• Notice when others are hurt or upset
• Point to at least 2 body parts, like their nose, when asked
• Try to use knobs or buttons on a toy
• Kick a ball

Check out this complete list of milestones for kids age 24 months . 

By age 30 months, most kids:

• Name items in a picture book, like a cat or dog
• Play next to or with other kids
• Jump off the ground with both feet
• Take some clothes off by themselves, like loose pants or an open jacket

Check out this complete list of milestones for kids age 30 months .

Ages 3 to 4 Years

By age 3 years, most kids:.

• Calm down within 10 minutes after you leave them, like at a child care drop-off
• Draw a circle after you show them how
• Ask “who,” “what,” “where,” or “why” questions, like “Where is Daddy?”

Check out this complete list of milestones for kids age 3 years . 

By age 4 years, most kids:

• Avoid danger — for example, they don’t jump from tall heights at the playground
• Pretend to be something else during play, like a teacher, superhero, or dog
• Draw a person with 3 or more body parts
• Catch a large ball most of the time

Check out this complete list of milestones for kids age 4 years . 

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

Gather important information.

Take any medical records you have to the appointment, including a record of vaccines (shots) your child has received.

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

• New brother or sister
• Serious illness or death in the family
• Separation or divorce — or a parent spending time in jail or prison
• Change in childcare

Use this tool to  keep track of your child’s family health history . This information will help your doctor or nurse know if your child is at risk for certain health problems. 

Ask other caregivers about your child.

Before you visit the doctor, talk with others who care for your child, like a grandparent, daycare provider, or babysitter. They may be able to help you think of questions to ask the doctor or nurse.

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 you want to ask the doctor..

Before the well-child visit, write down a few questions you have. This visit is a great time to ask the doctor or nurse any questions about:

• A health condition your child has (like asthma or an allergy)
• Changes in sleeping or eating habits
• How to help kids in the family get along

Here are some questions you may want to ask:

• Is my child up to date on vaccines?
• How can I make sure my child is getting enough physical activity?
• Is my child at a healthy weight?
• How can I help my child try different foods?
• What are appropriate ways to discipline my child?
• How much screen time is okay for young children?

Take notes so you can remember the answers later.

Ask what to do if your child 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 during the weekend. 

What to Expect

Know what to expect..

During each well-child visit, the doctor or nurse will ask you questions about your child, do a physical exam, and update your child's medical history. You'll also be able to ask your questions and discuss any problems you may be having.

The doctor or nurse will ask questions about your child.

The doctor or nurse may ask about:

• Behavior: Does your child have trouble following directions?
• Health: Does your child often have stomachaches or other kinds of pain?
• Activities: What types of pretend play does your child like? What toys or other things do they most like playing with?
• Eating habits: What does your child eat on a normal day?
• Family: Have there been any changes in your family since your last visit?
• Learning: What’s something new your child learned recently?

They may also ask questions about safety, like:

• Does your child always ride in a car seat in the back seat of the car? 
• Does anyone in your home have a gun? If so, is it unloaded and locked in a place where your child can’t get it?
• Is there a swimming pool or other water around your home? Is there a locked door or gate to keep your child from getting to the pool without an adult?
• What steps have you taken to childproof your home? Do you have gates on stairs and latches on cabinets?
• Does everyone who cares for your child know when and how to call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222)?

Your answers to questions like these will help the doctor or nurse make sure your child is healthy, safe, and developing normally. Be honest, even if you’re worried you’re doing something wrong — the doctor or nurse is there to help you.

Physical Exam

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

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

• Measure your child’s height and weight
• Check your child’s blood pressure
• Check your child’s vision
• Check your child’s body parts (this is called a physical exam)
• Give your child any vaccines they need

Learn more about your child’s health care:

• Find out how to get your child’s shots on schedule
• Learn how to take care of your child’s vision

Content last updated July 10, 2024

Reviewer Information

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

Reviewed by:

Sara Kinsman, MD, PhD Director, Division of Child, Adolescent, and Family Health Maternal and Child Health Bureau Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)

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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)

Preventive Health Care Visits in Infants

Healthy infants should be seen by their doctor often during the first year of life. Preventive health care visits (also called well-child visits) typically take place within a few days after birth or by 2 weeks of age and at 1, 2, 4, 6, and 9 months of age. During these visits, the doctor uses age-specific guidelines to monitor the infant's growth and development and asks the parents questions about various developmental milestones (see table Developmental Milestones From Birth to Age 12 Months ). Tests are sometimes done, and during many visits, the doctor vaccinates the infant against various illnesses (see Childhood Vaccination Schedule ).

Health care visits also allow the doctor to educate the parents about eating, sleeping, behavior, child safety, nutrition, exercise, and good health habits. In addition, the doctor advises the parents what developmental changes to expect in their infant by the next visit.

Examination

The infant's length and height , weight , and head circumference are measured at every visit. The doctor examines the infant for various abnormalities, including signs of hereditary disorders or birth defects .

The eyes are examined, and vision is tested. Infants who were born very prematurely (before the completion of 32 weeks of development in the uterus) usually need more frequent eye examinations by an eye specialist to look for retinopathy of prematurity , which is an eye disease that occurs when infants are born before the blood vessels in their eyes are fully developed and may result in blindness, and for the development of refractive errors , which result in blurring of vision. These disorders are more common among infants who were born very prematurely.

The doctor checks the infant’s hips for signs that the hip joints are loose or dislocated ( developmental dysplasia of the hip ). The doctor checks the infant's teeth , if they are present, for cavities and the mouth for thrush , which is a common yeast infection among infants.

The doctor also examines the heart, lungs, abdomen, arms and legs, and genitals.

Screening tests are done to assess whether infants are at risk of certain disorders.

Blood tests are done to detect anemia , sickle cell disease , and exposure to lead .

Hearing tests are done shortly after birth to determine whether an infant has a hearing disorder or hearing loss (see Newborn Screening Tests ) and are repeated later if new concerns about the infant's hearing develop (see also Hearing Impairment in Children ).

Infants are screened for tuberculosis (TB) risk factors with a questionnaire at all well-child visits, usually beginning in infancy. Risk factors include exposure to TB, being born in or having traveled to areas of the world where TB is common (countries other than the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand and Western and North European countries), having a family member with TB, and having parents or close contacts who are recent immigrants from an area where TB is common or who have recently been in jail. Those with risk factors usually have tuberculosis screening tests done.

At these visits, the doctor gives parents age-appropriate safety guidelines.

The following safety guidelines apply to infants from birth to age 12 months:

Use a rear-facing car seat and place it in the back seat of the vehicle.

Set the hot water heater to 120° F or less.

Prevent falls from changing tables and around stairs.

Place infants on their back to sleep on a firm, flat mattress for every sleep, do not share a bed, and do not place pillows, bumper pads, nonfitted sheets, stuffed animals or other toys, quilts, comforters, or weighted or loose blankets in the crib. (See also sidebar Safe to Sleep: Reducing the Risk of SIDS .)

Do not give infants foods and objects that can cause choking or be inhaled into the lungs.

Do not use baby walkers.

Place safety latches on cabinets and cover electrical outlets.

Remain alert when watching infants in the bathtub or near a pool or any body of water and when they are learning to walk.

Image courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Center for Injury Prevention and Control ( Transportation Safety Resources ). This guidance from the CDC is for the United States, and regulations may differ in other countries.

Nutrition and exercise

For infants, recommendations for nutrition are based on age. The doctor can help parents weigh the benefits of breastfeeding versus formula-feeding and give guidance regarding solid foods .

Parents should provide infants with a safe environment they can roam in and explore. Outdoor play should be encouraged from infancy.

Screen time (for example, television, video games, cell phones and other handheld devices, and noneducational computer time) may result in inactivity and obesity. Limits on the time a child spends using devices with screens should start at birth and be maintained throughout adolescence.

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