when are well baby visits

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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)

Catch Up on Well-Child Visits and Recommended Vaccinations

Many children missed check-ups and recommended childhood vaccinations over the past few years. CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend children catch up on routine childhood vaccinations and get back on track for school, childcare, and beyond.

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.

Well-Child Visits and Recommended Vaccinations Are Essential

Well-child visits and recommended vaccinations are essential and help make sure children stay healthy. Children who are not protected by vaccines are more likely to get diseases like measles and whooping cough . These diseases are extremely contagious and can be very serious, especially for babies and young children. In recent years, there have been outbreaks of these diseases, especially in communities with low vaccination rates.

Well-child visits are essential for many reasons , including:

• Tracking growth and developmental milestones
• Discussing any concerns about your child’s health
• Getting scheduled vaccinations to prevent illnesses like measles and whooping cough (pertussis) and  other serious diseases

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.

Routinely Recommended Vaccines for Children and Adolescents

Getting children and adolescents caught up with recommended vaccinations is the best way to protect them from a variety of   vaccine-preventable diseases . The schedules below outline the vaccines recommended for each age group.

See which vaccines your child needs from birth through age 6 in this easy-to-read immunization schedule.

See which vaccines your child needs from ages 7 through 18 in this easy-to-read immunization schedule.

The  Vaccines for Children  (VFC) program provides vaccines to eligible children at no cost. This program provides free vaccines to children who are Medicaid-eligible, uninsured, underinsured, or American Indian/Alaska Native. Check out the  program’s requirements  and talk to your child’s doctor or nurse to see if they are a VFC provider. You can also find a VFC provider by calling your  state or local health department  or seeing if your state has a VFC website.

COVID-19 Vaccines for Children and Teens

Everyone aged 6 months and older can get an updated COVID-19 vaccine to help protect against severe illness, hospitalization and death. Learn more about making sure your child stays up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines .

• Vaccines & Immunizations

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Child well visits, birth to 15 months

• Child well visit checklist
• Quiz: Child well-being and immunizations

Checking in: Questions to ask at your child's well visits

Welcoming a new child is exciting. But caring for a baby can also leave you with a lot of unanswered questions. Your baby’s care provider can help. From giving immunizations to offering you feeding tips, care providers help your baby grow up healthy. That includes making sure you have the answers and support you need.

A note about immunizations at child well visits

Your child’s care provider will give your baby immunizations during most visits. Immunizations work better and reduce the risk of infection by working with the body's natural defenses to help safely develop immunity to disease. Keeping your baby on schedule is also key, so don’t forget to schedule visits on time.

Learn what to ask at your child's well visits

Preparation is key for a stress-free appointment. Your baby should go to at least 8 child well visits before they are 15 months old. Knowing what will happen at each of these appointments can help you get ready. Knowing what to pack for your visit and questions you might ask when you get there can make your life easier. Watch the videos and view the questions below to get ready for each early child well visit.

Child Well Visits: Newborn

Video transcript.

Screen 1: What to expect at your baby’s appointment – Newborn

Screen 2:  Your newborn will need a checkup before going home.

Screen 3:  What to expect before you leave the hospital:

• Physical checkup (measurements, vitals).
• Screenings: Critical congenital heart defect, vision, hearing, newborn bilirubin, blood (check for disorders).
• Developmental and behavioral assessment.
• Immunizations:  HepB.

Screen 4:  Before you leave:

• Make sure your contact information is current.
• Schedule your next appointment.

Screen 5:  In light of COVID-19, remember to practice social distancing at your well-child visits. Wash your hands often and wear a mask. Contact your care provider with questions about your visit.

Screen 6:  UnitedHealthcare Logo

Your newborn will need a checkup before going home from the hospital. Watch the video to learn what screenings and immunizations you can expect at your child’s first appointment.

3 to 5-day visit

Child well visits: 3 to 5-day visit.

Screen 1: What to expect at your baby’s appointment – 3-5 Days

Screen 2:  Early well-child visits and immunizations set your baby up for a healthy future.

Screen 3:  What to expect at your child’s appointment:

• Physical checkup: Measurements, vitals.
• Umbilical cord examination.
• Screenings: Vision, hearing, blood (check for disorders).
• Review screenings done at birth.

Screen 4:  You’ll also talk about if baby can:

• Suck to eat
• Grasp your finger
• React when startled

Screen 5:  Before you leave:

Screen 6:  In light of COVID-19, remember to practice social distancing at your well-child visits. Wash your hands often and wear a mask. Contact your care provider with questions about your visit.

UnitedHealthcare Logo

Watch the video to get an idea of what to expect at your appointment

In addition, here are some questions you may want to ask:

• How can I keep my baby comfortable and safe from seasonal weather?
• What can I do to make breastfeeding more comfortable for me and baby?
• When will my baby gain more weight?
• Should I always put my baby to sleep on their back?
• How do I care for my baby’s umbilical cord?
• How often should my baby get a bath?
• How do I calm and soothe my baby?

1-month visit

Child well visits: 1 month appointment.

Screen 1: What to expect at your baby’s appointment – 1 Month

• Immunizations: HepB.
• Postpartum depression screening (for mothers).
• Raise hands
• Focus on your face

Screen 7:  UnitedHealthcare Logo

• When will my baby sleep through the night?
• What should I do for the peeling skin on my baby’s head?
• How do I care for my infant's skin?
• What is a normal number of wet or soiled diapers I should change every day?
• Are there programs to help me buy formula or breast pumps?

2-month visit

Child well visits: 2 month appointment.

Screen 1: What to expect at your baby’s appointment – 2 Months

• Physical checkup: (measurements, vitals).
• Screenings: Vision, hearing.
• Immunizations: DTaP, Hib, IPV, RV, HepB, PCV13.
• Developmental assessment.
• Turn and lift head
• Kick while laying on back
• Notice hands
• Follow objects with eyes
• How often should my baby be eating?
• Should I be using formula in addition to breastfeeding?
• How can I keep my baby comfortable after immunizations?
• How can I find childcare I can trust?
• When should I stop swaddling my baby?
• I’ve been feeling sad and anxious since delivering my baby. What should I do?
• What is “tummy time”?

4-month visit

Child well visits: 4 month appointment.

Screen 1: What to expect at your baby’s appointment – 4 Months

• Roll onto tummy
• Reach for objects
• Watch an object move
• Laugh and giggle

Screen 7: UnitedHealthcare Logo

• Is Tylenol safe to give my baby for a fever?
• How can I help my baby have healthy teeth?
• How can I soothe my baby during teething?
• How can we begin to create a sleeping routine?
• How long should my baby spend doing “tummy time” each day?
• How long should my baby nap each day?

6-month visit

Child well visits: 6 month appointment.

Screen 1: What to expect at your baby’s appointment – 6 Months

• Screenings: Vision, hearing, oral health.
• Immunizations: DTaP, Hib, IPV, RV, HepB, PCV13, IIV.
• Roll in both directions
• Play with toes
• Hold a bottle
• Sit with good head control
• When and how should I introduce foods other than breastmilk or formula?
• How can I wean my baby off night feedings?
• How long should my baby use a pacifier?
• Can my baby sleep with a favorite blanket or toy?
• When can my baby start drinking from a sippy cup?

9-month visit

Child well visits: 9 month appointment.

Screen 1: What to expect at your baby’s appointment – 9 Months

• Screenings: Vision, hearing, anemia, lead, oral health.
• Immunizations: IIV.
• Sit unassisted
• Crawl and pull up to stand
• Work to get toys that are out of reach
• I think my baby is behind in development (e.g., crawling). What can I do to help?
• What do I need to babyproof in my home once my baby can crawl?
• Should I be brushing my baby’s new teeth?
• How long should my baby be sleeping at night?
• How long should I let my baby cry at night?

12-month visit

Child well visits: 12 month appointment.

Screen 1: What to expect at your baby’s appointment – 12 Months

• Screenings: Vision, hearing, lead, oral health.
• Immunizations: MMR, HepA, Varicella, PCV13, IIV.
• Walk while holding onto something
• Use gestures to get things
• Eat solid foods with fingers
• Say more than one word
• Respond to name
• What should I do when baby pulls my hair or bites?
• Are my baby’s sleep patterns normal?
• How can I treat diaper rash?
• What can I do about sore arms and back from holding my baby?
• Should my baby nap at the same time each day?
• How do I keep my child safe as they learn to walk and explore?

15-month visit

Child well visits: 15 month appointment.

Screen 1: What to expect at your baby’s appointment – 15 Months

• Immunizations: DTaP, Hib, IIV.
• Walk and run
• Squat and stand back up
• Throw or kick a ball
• Point for things 
• When should my baby switch from a crib to a bed?
• How much juice or milk should my baby be drinking?
• Should my baby have screen time?
• When should my baby go to the dentist?
• When should I switch to a front-facing car seat?

Wellness visits are also important for your child after 15 months

As your child grows, it’s important to continue to have regular checkups with your health care provider. You can view checklists for preventive care visits at every age, from 1 month to adulthood.

Looking for resources to help support you and your child?

• Most health insurance plans cover early child well visits or provide assistance. Call the number on your insurance card for more details.
• If you are a UnitedHealthcare Community Plan member, you may have access to our Healthy First Steps program , which can help you find a care provider, schedule well-child visits, connect with educational and community resources and more. To get started, call 1-800-599-5985 , TTY 711, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 1
• If you need help getting to an appointment, or getting formula or healthy food, call the number on your insurance card.
• If you are having a hard time getting food or are experiencing unemployment, your care provider may be able to connect you with resources that can help.

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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)

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Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider.

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All About Your Child’s Well-Baby Visits

From the first few days of life all the way through to age 21, your child will have regular appointments with her healthcare provider. These are often referred to as well-baby visits or well-child checkups. Initially, they will happen every few months or so, but later on they will happen annually. Learn why well-child checkups are important, what the typical schedule is, and how to get the most out of each visit.

Well-Child Checkup Schedule

Well-child checkups are crucial for keeping your little one healthy and safe as she grows and develops. Below you will find the standard schedule of well-child checkups for the first three years, along with a few examples of what may come up during each checkup. Beginning at age 3, most children will have annual well-child visits. Keep in mind that your child’s healthcare provider may recommend additional visits, and you can always schedule an extra visit between appointments if your little one needs medical care.

The First Week

This visit usually happens within 72 hours of your newborn being home—usually when your baby is about 3 to 5 days old. As part of this checkup your child’s skin color may be checked for signs of jaundice . Your child’s provider may also take a peek inside your newborn’s mouth for signs of tongue-tie . If you are breastfeeding, your little one’s provider can answer any questions you have about latch or sore nipples , for example. The provider may also be able to recommend a lactation consultant for additional help and support.

1 Month Old Checkup

During this visit, your child’s healthcare provider may check things like your baby’s reflexes and muscle tone, as well examining the soft spots on your baby’s head called the fontanelles. If there’s something specific you’d like your child’s provider to check, go ahead and mention it. Your baby’s provider may ask you about how feeding is going. For example, you may be asked how much formula you’re offering, or how often you breastfeed your baby. If you’re planning to return to work soon while continuing to breastfeed, your newborn’s provider may give you advice on pumping and storing breast milk. You might also like to use this opportunity to ask how to go about finding good childcare. Use this appointment to ask any questions you have about adjusting to life as a parent. For example, if you suspect you may have postpartum depression or are not recovering as you had hoped after childbirth , bring this up as well. If you’re the dad, you might like to ask about what you can do to bond with your baby.

2 Months Old Checkup

At this visit your baby may receive some vaccines, including the DTaP, Hib, and IPV vaccines. Vaccinations will be given at a number of different well-child checkups, so it’s worth taking a look at the immunization schedule or asking your child’s provider for guidance on which vaccines to expect when. Your baby’s heart and lung health may be checked. Your child’s provider will use a stethoscope to listen to your baby’s heartbeats for signs of irregularity, and to listen to your baby’s lungs for signs of breathing difficulties. If your baby has diaper rash , your child’s healthcare provider can recommend ointments or barrier creams for treatment and prevention. Your child’s provider can also let you know about other common baby rashes to keep an eye out for.

4 Months Old Checkup

At this visit, your baby’s provider may examine your child's eyes and track her eye movements. Your child’s provider may also move your baby’s legs to check that the joints are developing well, and press gently on your baby’s tummy to check whether the organs are forming well. At this point your doctor will ask you about your baby’s sleep, including nap times. To help you keep track of this, and to help make sure your baby’s sleeping well, we suggest downloading the Smart Sleep Coach by Pampers™. Co-developed with pediatricians and backed by science, this easy-to-use app is like having a personal sleep coach, in your pocket! Get started today by taking their free sleep assessment .

6 Months Old Checkup

This month, your child’s healthcare provider may offer pointers on introducing solids and tell you about signs of an allergic reaction to watch for as you introduce new foods one at a time. Your child’s provider can also give you personalized advice on which foods to start with, how to set up healthy eating habits, and how to actually feed your baby solids.

9 Months Old Checkup

As your baby’s teeth start erupting , your child’s healthcare provider may check on their growth and recommend a good pediatric dentist in your area. Your baby’s provider can also show you how to care for those first tiny teeth. Other topics that may come up at this checkup include how to wean your baby off the bottle when the time comes, when to start giving cow’s milk, and when to introduce utensils and a sippy cup.

1 Year Old Checkup

During this visit your child’s healthcare provider may ask about certain fine and gross motor skills , such whether your child can pull up to a standing position, or walk on his own or with his hand held, or use his finger to point at objects he wants. You might like to ask your child’s healthcare provider about when your little one might start walking , if he isn’t already; what baby proofing measures you should take at home now that your child is getting more mobile; and where to go to get shoes fitted for your child.

15 Months Old Checkup

Your child’s healthcare provider may ask about how your toddler’s interpersonal, language, and cognitive skills are coming along. For example, she might ask whether your child is starting to explore more independently, whether he points to common objects when you say their names, and whether he can follow simple instructions like “give the spoon to Daddy.” If you are planning to have another baby soon, you might like to ask the healthcare provider about how to introduce your toddler to the concept of him getting a little brother or sister.

18 Months Old Checkup

As your child gets more active and independent you may like to ask your child’s provider about strategies for keeping your child safe in your home environment. This is also a good time to discuss ways to manage your child's behavior and set up age-appropriate rules and boundaries. If your toddler has certain risk factors, the relevant screening tests may be offered at this checkup. For example, screening tests may be recommended for things like hearing, vision, development delays, or autism. Your provider may also bring up the topic of potty training, and go over some of the signs of readiness for potty training .

2 Years Old Checkup

Before this visit you may have been wondering about the upcoming “terrible twos” and how you should handle temper tantrums and the inevitable meltdowns at the grocery store. This visit is a great chance to bring up your questions and concerns around how your child’s behavior and personality may be evolving. Your child’s provider will explain what is normal during this stage of development and how to support your child’s growing independence. Preschool could be coming up in the next year or two, and your provider can help you find a preschool that's a good fit for your child.

2 ½ Years Old Checkup

Besides the usual checks, one topic that may come up during this visit is potty training. If potty training has begun and isn't going well, or if you're unsure how to get the process started , your provider can offer suggestions. This checkup may also be a great time to talk to your child’s provider about your little one’s temperament and personality. For example, if you have any concerns about how your toddler is interacting with other children, or if your child seems particularly shy, you might like to bring it up to see what advice or reassurance your toddler’s provider can give you.

3 Years Old Checkup

During this session your toddler’s healthcare provider may ask you about anything that’s disturbing your child’s sleep, like nightmares, for example, and how to handle other sleep issues. Screen time may also come up. You may talk about how much screen time a 3-year-old should be getting, and what type of programming is good for a child of this age.

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What Happens at a Well-Child Visit?

Each visit may be a little different based on your child’s age and stage of development, any specific needs your child has, and the way your child’s healthcare provider does things. However, here are some of the things that typically happen at a well-child visit in the early years:

Tracking your child’s growth by measuring her length, weight, and head circumference

A physical exam that could include checking your baby’s ears, eyes, mouth, skin, limbs, tummy, and other body parts

An assessment of your child's physical development, including her movement and motor skills

An evaluation of her emotional and cognitive development; for example, checking that your child is reacting and interacting normally for her age, and is learning appropriately for her age

Immunizations may be given

Screening tests or other tests may be recommended if needed

Your child’s provider may give you advice on feeding and nutrition or recommend extra vitamins or supplements, like vitamin D or iron, if they are needed

Your provider may share insights into the next phase of your child’s development. If your child is not developing as expected, the provider will also be able to offer recommendations on treatment or therapies to help your child get back on track.

Your child’s healthcare provider will answer any questions you have about parenting or about your child’s health and well-being. No question is too big or too small. You can ask anything from how much your child should be sleeping during the day to when to switch your car seat from rear facing to front facing.

Your child’s healthcare provider can give your information about resources in your area, and about how to go about certain things like choosing a good babysitter, finding an affordable pediatric dentist, or selecting the right preschool.

Benefits of the Well-Child Visit

Well-child checkups are invaluable for both you and your child. Here are just some of the benefits of the well-child checks:

Spotting issues early. Your child’s healthcare provider will use these visits to keep an eye out for any possible problems so that steps can be taken to get your child back on the right track. As an example, if your little one is gaining too much weight, your provider can give you advice on nutrition so that your child gets back to a healthy weight.

Preventing problems. As an example, ensuring your child is immunized against certain childhood diseases helps prevent your child from getting sick with a preventable disease.

Getting answers. You might have some questions that aren’t pressing enough to warrant a separate doctor’s visit. Knowing that you have a well-child visit coming up gives you a chance to collect all of your questions and have them answered by a medical professional you trust. Remember, there are no “silly questions” when it comes to your child’s health and well-being.

Learning about what’s to come. Your child’s healthcare provider can give you insights and information about the next stage of your child’s development. That means that certain things might be less of surprise when they happen. As an example, your child’s provider might tell you what kind of behavioral changes to expect with the “terrible twos” and how to manage the tantrums that follow.

Creating a strong relationship with your child’s healthcare provider. Seeing your child’s provider regularly gives you the chance to build up a rapport. You’ll get to know her during these well-child visits, and she’ll get to know you and your little one. Having a relationship built on trust ensures that you can work as a team for the best outcomes for your child.

How to Make the Most of the Well-Child Visit

There are a few things you can do to ensure you get the most out of your child’s well-child checkups:

If it’s workable, schedule the visit for a time when you think your child will be well-rested and well-fed, and try to pick a time when you yourself aren’t rushed. Also, consider how busy your child’s healthcare provider will be. It may be easiest if you can get the first appointment of the day, or one that’s not during “rush hour.”

If it’s possible, both parents should be at the first few visits to ensure that you both get to know your child’s healthcare provider and get the same basic information about newborn baby care

Pack everything you’ll need like your insurance information, your child’s medical history, and your diaper bag (filled with extra diapers, snacks, and toys)

Consider keeping a physical or digital record of what was discussed at each well-child visit. Keep copies of your child’s lab results and evidence of immunizations in the same spot or format as well. Having all this information in one place from the start will make it easier to look back and find the information when you need it. When your child enters preschool or school, you may need to provide documentation of certain medical details.

Dress your child in clothes that are easy to remove and put back on. Your little one may be undressed for part of the visit and your child’s healthcare provider may need easy access to give immunizations.

Write down any questions you have and take the list with you so you don’t forget anything important. Having a list of questions also allows you to focus on the answers instead of thinking ahead about what to ask next.

Using the Smart Sleep Coach by Pampers™ to track your baby’s night sleeps and naps can be a huge help when discussing your baby’s health and development with your doctor. By taking a broad view of your baby’s sleep, you can understand and shape your baby’s sleep and give them the rest they need to keep growing and developing well. In fact, if you're experiencing sleep challenges, you can take this free sleep assessment to get helpful guidance and support on how to get sleep back on track!

The bottom line

Well-child checkups are important for your child. They allow the healthcare provider to to track your child’s growth and development, give vaccinations or screening tests that are needed, and identify any problems nice and early. By working together, you and your child’s provider can give your child the best possible start in life.

Plus, each well-child visit is a great opportunity for you to ask any questions you have about your child’s health and parenting in general.

Try not to miss your scheduled well-baby checkups; they can be a wealth of information and an important way to help ensure your child’s happy and healthy development. By taking advantage of these one-on-one sessions with your child’s provider, you may find he becomes less of a “provider” and more of a partner in your parenting journey.

How We Wrote This Article The information in this article is based on the expert advice found in trusted medical and government sources, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. You can find a full list of sources used for this article below. The content on this page should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult medical professionals for full diagnosis and treatment.

• healthychildren.org. “AAP Schedule of Well-Child Care Visits.”
• Kids Health. “Your Child's Checkup: 3 Years.”
• CDC. “Developmental Monitoring and Screening.”
• Kids Health. “Your Child's Checkup: 1.5 Years (18 Months).”
• Kids Health. “Your Child's Checkups.”

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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 go to the doctor or nurse for a “well-child visit” 7 times between ages 1 and 4.

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

At a well-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 need to see the doctor or nurse when they’re:

• 12 months old
• 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 ask you how you’re doing as a parent and what new things your child is learning to do.

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 (2 years), 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 simple games with other kids, like tag
• 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.

Bring 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
• Change in child care

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

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 3 to 5 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 a notepad, smartphone, or tablet and write down the answers so you remember them 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 get hold of 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 complain of stomachaches or other kinds of pain?
• Activities — What types of pretend play does your child like?
• Eating habits — What does your child eat on a normal day?
• Family — Have there been any changes in your family since your last visit?

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?
• What steps have you taken to childproof your home? Do you have gates on stairs and latches on cabinets?

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

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 shots 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 February 2, 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, M.D., Ph.D. Director, Division of Child, Adolescent, and Family Health Maternal and Child Health Bureau Health Resources and Services Administration

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

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

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Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by ODPHP or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.

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KENNETH W. LIN, MD, MPH, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia

Am Fam Physician. 2015;91(6):362-364

More than two-thirds of practicing family physicians report that they provide care for children, 1 and well-child visits provide the best opportunities to deliver evidence-based preventive services. These services include administering immunizations, assessing growth and development, and counseling children and parents about behavioral issues, nutrition, exercise, and prevention of unintentional injury. 2

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recently updated its recommendations on preventive health care for children, 3 which define a set of services that, under the Affordable Care Act, must be covered by Medicaid and private insurers at no out-of-pocket cost. 4 The current AAP Bright Futures guideline (available at http://www.aap.org/en-us/professional-resources/practice-support/Periodicity/Periodicity%20Schedule_FINAL.pdf ) includes three screening tests that were not recommended for all children in previous versions: autism screening at 18 and 24 months of age, cholesterol screening between nine and 11 years of age, and annual screening for high blood pressure beginning at three years of age.

It should be noted that none of these screening tests are included in the American Academy of Family Physicians' (AAFP's) list of recommended preventive services for children ( Table 1 ) . 5 The AAFP's clinical preventive services recommendations are generally consistent with those of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). The USPSTF methods for developing recommendations include performing a systematic evidence review of the benefits and harms of a preventive service, and recommending that the service be provided to the general population only after consistent data from high-quality randomized controlled trials or other prospective studies establish that the benefits exceed the harms. 6 This rigorous approach to the development of clinical practice guidelines has been endorsed by the Institute of Medicine. 7 In contrast, few AAP policy statements on well-child care are supported by direct evidence of net health benefit. 8 , 9

The rationale for the AAP's recommendation to routinely screen toddlers for autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) with ASD-specific screening tools is to advance the time of diagnosis and deliver early interventions. 10 Although a systematic review of 40 studies found that a policy of universal screening for ASD increased rates of diagnosis and referral, the effects of such policies on time of diagnosis or enrollment in services are unclear. 11 The entire body of evidence that intensive behavioral interventions improve language skills and cognitive or functional outcomes in children with ASD consists of a single randomized controlled trial and several prospective cohort studies of varying quality. 12 , 13

The AAP recommends measurement of blood pressure and cholesterol levels in children to identify modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease and to provide early interventions to reduce future risk. However, no studies have evaluated whether treating primary hypertension in persons younger than 18 years reduces adverse cardiovascular outcomes in adulthood. 14 , 15 Similarly, evidence is lacking that lowering cholesterol levels with lifestyle changes or medications improves cardiovascular outcomes, and long-term statin use is associated with rare but serious harms. 16 , 17

Time is a precious clinical resource. Clinicians who spend time delivering unproven or ineffective interventions at health maintenance visits risk “crowding out” effective services. For example, a national survey of family and internal medicine physicians regarding adult well-male examination practices found that physicians spent an average of five minutes discussing prostate-specific antigen screening (a service that the AAFP and the USPSTF recommend against because the harms outweigh the benefits 18 ), but one minute or less each on nutrition and smoking cessation counseling. 19 Similarly, family physicians have limited time at well-child visits and therefore should prioritize preventive services that have strong evidence of net benefit.

editor's note: Dr. Lin is associate deputy editor of AFP Online and chair of the Subcommittee on Clinical Practice Guidelines of the AAFP's Commission on the Health of the Public and Science. Because of Dr. Lin's dual roles, two other medical editors independently reviewed this editorial for publication.

Bazemore AW, Makaroff LA, Puffer JC, et al. Declining numbers of family physicians are caring for children. J Am Board Fam Med. 2012;25(2):139-140.

Riley M, Locke AB, Skye EP. Health maintenance in school-aged children: part II. Counseling recommendations. Am Fam Physician. 2011;83(6):689-694.

Simon GR, Baker C, Barden GA, et al. 2014 recommendations for pediatric preventive health care. Pediatrics. 2014;133(3):568-570.

American Academy of Pediatrics. Bright Futures. http://brightfutures.aap.org . Accessed August 20, 2014.

American Academy of Family Physicians. Summary of recommendations for clinical preventive services. July 2014. https://www.aafp.org/dam/AAFP/documents/patient_care/clinical_recommendations/cps-recommendations.pdf . Accessed August 20, 2014.

Melnyk BM, Grossman DC, Chou R, et al. USPSTF perspective on evidence-based preventive recommendations for children. Pediatrics. 2012;130(2):e399-e407.

Graham R, Mancher M, Wolman DM, et al., eds. Clinical Practice Guidelines We Can Trust . Washington, DC: The National Academies Press; 2011.

Moyer VA, Butler M. Gaps in the evidence for well-child care: a challenge to our profession. Pediatrics. 2004;114(6):1511-1521.

Belamarich PF, Gandica R, Stein RE, Racine AD. Drowning in a sea of advice: pediatricians and American Academy of Pediatrics policy statements. Pediatrics. 2006;118(4):e964-e978.

Johnson CP, Myers SM American Academy of Pediatrics Council on Children with Disabilities. Identification and evaluation of children with autism spectrum disorders. Pediatrics. 2007;120(5):1183-1215.

Daniels AM, Halladay AK, Shih A, et al. Approaches to enhancing the early detection of autism spectrum disorders. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2014;53(2):141-152.

Warren Z, McPheeters ML, Sathe N, et al. A systematic review of early intensive intervention for autism spectrum disorders. Pediatrics. 2011;127(5):e1303-e1311.

Reichow B, Barton EE, Boyd BA, Hume K. Early intensive behavioral intervention (EBI) for young children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012;10:CD009260.

Chiolero A, Bovet P, Paradis G. Screening for elevated blood pressure in children and adolescents: a critical appraisal. JAMA Pediatr. 2013;167(3):266-273.

Thompson M, Dana T, Bougatsos C, Blazina I, Norris SL. Screening for hypertension in children and adolescents to prevent cardiovascular disease. Pediatrics. 2013;131(3):490-525.

Grossman DC, Moyer VA, Melnyk BM, Chou R, DeWitt TG U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. The anatomy of a U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendation: lipid screening for children and adolescents. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2011;165(3):205-210.

Psaty BM, Rivara FP. Universal screening and drug treatment of dyslipidemia in children and adolescents. JAMA. 2012;307(3):257-258.

Moyer VA U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Screening for prostate cancer: U.S. Preventive Service Task Force recommendation statement. Ann Intern Med. 2012;157(2):120-134.

Pollack KI, Krause KM, Yarnall KS, Gradison M, Michener JL, Østbye T. Estimated time spent on preventive services by primary care physicians. BMC Health Serv Res. 2008;8:245.

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Well Baby Visits, 1 and 2 Months

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

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

Consider Referral

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

Additional Information

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

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Well-baby and well-child visits

Free, trusted resources for baby’s development.

Track important milestones, play games based on age, and learn about important development topics to make sure baby stays on track!

• About Pathways.org

What to Expect At A Well Child Visit

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

What is an early well child visit?

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

When should a well-baby visit take place?

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

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

What should you plan to discuss?

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

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

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

Watch this video to learn more!

Your well-baby visit checklist

Before the visit:.

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

For the visit:

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

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

Download the free pathways.org baby milestones app .

Track your child’s milestones here!

• 0-3 month milestones
• 4-6 month milestones
• 7-9 month milestones
• 10-12 month milestones
• 13-18 month milestones
• 19-24 month milestones
• 2-3 year milestones

Related Resources

Try These Tips to Help Understand Your Talking Toddler

When To Use Swaddles and Sleep Sacks

The First-Week Well-Baby Visit

Medical review policy, latest update:, 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.

Go to Your Baby's Age

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Watch CBS News

The benefits of well-child visits

Baby Jameela doing ‘really well’ as she settles in with gorilla group at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

C LEVELAND, Ohio — A baby gorilla born in Texas who was brought to the Cleveland in hopes she would bond with the gorilla group at the Metroparks Zoo is doing “really well,” zoo officials say.

In an update posted on social media , zoo animal curator Elena Less said Jameela, who was born in January at the Fort Worth Zoo, is “incredibly healthy” and “very strong.” The zoo is continuing the slow process of introducing Jameela to the zoo’s gorilla group.

Jameela was delivered through an emergency cesarean section in Fort Worth. However, Jameela’s mother, Sekani, and other females in the troop did not show maternal behaviors. The infant was then sent to Cleveland in an attempt to have her bond with Frederika.

The zoo said last week that Fredrika, the oldest gorilla in the zoo’s troop, wasted no time in picking up Jameela, but Kayembe, Fredrika’s other foster child, “got a little too rambunctious.” Less said Kayembe’s behavior is not unexpected.

“We are moving slowly and making sure that Fredrika has time to bond with Jameela and that we can work on Kayembe on reinforcing positive, calm behaviors around Jameela as well,” Less said.

Zoo officials are still working on ensuring a bond with Fredrika by bottle-feeding Jameela next to her foster mother. Jameela also is practicing riding on the backs of zoo officials because that’s how Fredrika prefers to carry her babies, Less said.

Less said the zoo also is working with Kayembe’s behavior by encouraging gentle touches through a mesh barrier.

Less said last week that if the gorillas appear calm and relaxed, visitors will be allowed to observe the troop. But she said the gorillas’ needs come first and if they’re showing signs that they need privacy, no visitors will be allowed.

©2024 Advance Local Media LLC. Visit cleveland.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Ex-cop accused in 2 killings, kidnapping of baby fatally shoots self at end of chase, police say

A former Washington state police officer accused of killing his ex-wife and his girlfriend , as well as kidnapping a baby, shot and killed himself at the end of a car chase with police in Oregon, authorities said Tuesday.

Oregon State Patrol troopers on the lookout for suspect Elias Huizar, 39, spotted him driving south on Interstate 5 near Eugene about 2:40 p.m., Oregon State Police Capt. Kyle Kennedy said at an evening news conference.

A pursuit ensued and at one point the suspect lost control of the vehicle he was driving and exchanged gunfire with pursuing troopers, Kennedy said. No injuries were reported, and the chase continued south, he said.

After approaching slow traffic, Huizar hit a stopped vehicle and spun into a median, the captain said. Huizar's car then became immobile and, as troopers "contacted" the vehicle, the suspect shot himself in the head, Kennedy said.

The 1-year-old boy Huizar had allegedly kidnapped was safely taken by troopers, Kennedy said. Authorities did not detail how they believed the child was kidnapped.

No injuries were reported in the second and final crash about 25 miles from the start of the chase, the captain said.

"Today was a worst-case scenario for us — having a murder suspect in the same vehicle as an innocent juvenile," Kennedy said. "That brings everything up another level for us. It’s a zero-sum game for us. We’re thankful for the way it turned out."

Huizar was charged with first-degree murder in Monday’s slaying of Amber Rodriguez, 31, at Wiley Elementary School in West Richland as classes were being let out shortly before 3:30 p.m., Benton County Prosecutor Eric Eisinger said during a Tuesday afternoon news conference.

The charge of murder includes an aggravated circumstance allegation of domestic violence, as well as a firearm enhancement, Eisinger said.

Huizar was also being investigated in the death of a woman whose body was discovered later Monday when authorities searched his home. That victim has not been identified but was described in an Amber Alert from Washington State Patrol as Huizar’s girlfriend.

According to a court document filed against Huizar on Monday, witnesses at Wiley Elementary School said a gunman wearing black clothing and a black hat shot Rodriguez. Eight .40-caliber bullet casings were recovered at the scene. Rodriguez was identified after the killing in part through her school employee ID, the documents said.

The pair’s 9-year-old son witnessed the shooting, according to the court filing. The former husband and wife have two children together, according to court documents. 

At the time of the shooting at the school, Huizar was under conditional freedom after being accused of third-degree rape of a child and second-degree rape, Eisinger said. His total bail had been set at $250,000, the prosecutor noted.

According to a separate court filing about Huizar’s alleged rapes, two teens went to police in early February after a 17-year-old girl — whom prosecutors in the filing said identified herself as Huizar's girlfriend — told officers she woke up to Huizar performing oral sex on her 16-year-old friend, who was "passed out" after all three had been drinking alcohol.

Huizar and the 17-year-old “have a child in common,” the filing said. Huizar met her when he was a resource officer at her middle school and got her pregnant when she was 15 years old, court records said.

The teen took the baby and drove off with her 16-year-old friend after February's alleged incident, before flagging down police, the court filing said.

Washington State Patrol on Monday had issued an Amber Alert for the 1-year-old. The state patrol had said Huizar and the boy shared the same last name, but the relationship between them was not immediately clear Tuesday afternoon. It was also not immediately clear whether the child was the same one Huizar had with the 17-year-old.

The alert was extended from Washington to Oregon as well as other places in the west, Eisinger said. The alert also said the women killed were Huizar’s ex-wife and his girlfriend.

Kennedy said Oregon State Police received a request to issue the alert about 10:30 p.m. Monday and put it into effect about an hour later.

The  West Richland Police Department  said earlier that Huizar was “armed and considered dangerous, and is likely to commit more crimes." Portland police told West Richland authorities that Huizar was seen in the Oregon city overnight, possibly driving a black sedan. 

The Yakima Police Department in Washington said Huizar was an officer there from 2013 to 2022.

“He did serve as a school resource officer for a period of time, at a couple schools during his employment. Mr. Huizar resigned in February of 2022, immediately following discipline,” a department spokesperson said. 

Shelley Redinger, superintendent of the Richland School District, said Huizar passed background checks and answered no to questions that included whether he had ever resigned from an employer with allegations of misconduct pending or if he’d ever been the subject of a workplace investigation accusing him of misconduct.

Redinger said Huizar’s last day as a district employee was in June 2023.

“We are extremely disheartened. That information about his past was not disclosed to us,” she said. “It is expectation for individuals who apply for employment with the Richland school district to be forthcoming and truthful in their applications.”

Antonio Planas is a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital. 

Andrew Blankstein is an investigative reporter for NBC News. He covers the Western U.S., specializing in crime, courts and homeland security. 

Dennis Romero is a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital.