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Baby Center of Excellence

Newborns to Toddlers

Newborns, baby, Infants, Toddlers-parents-guide, Kids Central Pediatrics

To-Do List for New Parents

  • Prenatal Visits: Keep up with regular prenatal appointments to monitor the baby’s and your health.
  • Birth Plan: Create a birth plan outlining preferences for delivery, pain management, and postpartum care, and share it with your healthcare provider.
  • Hospital Registration: Pre-register at the hospital or birthing center to save time during labor.
  • Choose a Pediatrician: Research and select a pediatrician for your baby’s first checkup.
  • Prenatal Classes: Consider attending childbirth, breastfeeding, and newborn care classes.
  • Baby’s Nursery: Set up the baby’s room or sleeping space, including the crib or bassinet, changing station, and storage for baby clothes and supplies.
  • Car Seat Installation: Install the baby’s car seat in your vehicle (many hospitals require this before discharge).
  • Stock Up on Essentials: Make sure you have newborn clothes, diapers, wipes, bottles, formula (if formula feeding), and other essentials.
  • Prepare a Safe Sleep Area: Follow safe sleep guidelines (e.g., firm mattress, no soft toys or blankets).
  • Baby-Proofing: Start baby-proofing your home to eliminate potential hazards (sharp objects, outlets, furniture that may topple over).
  • Pack a Hospital Bag: Pack essentials like comfortable clothes, toiletries, baby’s first outfit, and important documents for labor and delivery.
  • Maternity Leave: Arrange maternity leave with your employer and ensure you understand your benefits.
  • Plan for Help: Organize a support system with family and friends who can help after the baby arrives (for meals, household chores, etc.).
  • Prepare Siblings/Pets: If you have other children or pets, help them adjust by discussing the new baby and what to expect.
  • Insurance and Paperwork: Ensure your health insurance is ready to cover delivery and the baby’s medical expenses by adding your baby to your policy.
  • Budget for Baby Expenses: Adjust your budget to account for diapers, formula, clothes, and healthcare.
  • Start a College Fund or Savings: Consider setting up a savings account or college fund for your child’s future.
  • Postpartum Supplies: Stock up on postpartum essentials like sanitary pads, comfortable clothing, and nursing bras.
  • Mental Health Support: Prepare mentally for postpartum recovery and consider talking to a counselor if you have concerns about postpartum depression or anxiety.
  • Plan for Self-Care: Set up ways to take breaks and rest, and create a plan for how you’ll care for yourself once the baby is born.
  • Birth Certificate: Familiarize yourself with how to obtain a birth certificate and Social Security number for your baby.
  • Life Insurance and Will: Update or create life insurance policies and a will to protect your family.
  • Meal Prep: Prepare and freeze meals ahead of time to avoid cooking in the first few weeks after birth.
  • Organize Household Tasks: Arrange for help with household chores or get ahead by doing deep cleaning and organizing.

Winner of the 2021 Independent Press Award for Parenting & Family!

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Ages and Phases

Your First Well Visit

Your 2 Week Well Visit

Milestones to look out for

These milestones provide a general idea of what to expect, but individual variation is normal. If a child is significantly behind in multiple areas, it might be worth discussing with a pediatrician.

Newborn (0-1 month)

  • Motor: Moves head from side to side; jerky movements.
  • Social/Emotional: Begins to focus on faces.
  • Cognitive: Recognizes parent’s voice.
  • Language: Cries to express needs.

Common Concerns

These common concerns can help identify potential developmental delays. If you notice multiple areas of concern or major delays, it’s a good idea to consult a pediatrician for further evaluation.

Newborn (0-1 month):

Vaccine Schedule

This schedule is a guide based on the CDC’s recommendations for childhood immunizations. It’s important to follow the pediatrician’s advice regarding vaccinations and discuss any concerns with them directly.

Hepatitis B (HepB)

  • 1st dose (usually within 24 hours of birth)

Your 1 Month Well Visit

Milestones to look out for

These milestones provide a general idea of what to expect, but individual variation is normal. If a child is significantly behind in multiple areas, it might be worth discussing with a pediatrician.

1 Month

  • Motor: Lifts head briefly while on stomach.
  • Social/Emotional: Begins to smile.
  • Cognitive: Pays attention to faces.
  • Language: Makes cooing sounds.

Common Concerns

These common concerns can help identify potential developmental delays. If you notice multiple areas of concern or major delays, it’s a good idea to consult a pediatrician for further evaluation.

1 Month:

Vaccine Schedule

This schedule is a guide based on the CDC’s recommendations for childhood immunizations. It’s important to follow the pediatrician’s advice regarding vaccinations and discuss any concerns with them directly.

No vaccines unless catching up on HepB if missed at birth.

Your 2 Month Well Visit

Milestones to look out for

These milestones provide a general idea of what to expect, but individual variation is normal. If a child is significantly behind in multiple areas, it might be worth discussing with a pediatrician.

2 Months

  • Motor: Lifts head and chest during tummy time.
  • Social/Emotional: Smiles at people.
  • Cognitive: Follows objects with eyes.
  • Language: Turns head toward sounds.

Common Concerns

These common concerns can help identify potential developmental delays. If you notice multiple areas of concern or major delays, it’s a good idea to consult a pediatrician for further evaluation.

2 Months:

  • Baby not smiling in response to caregivers.
  • Little or no head control during tummy time.
  • Baby does not follow objects with their eyes.
  • Trouble feeding or frequent spitting up.
  • Crying that lasts for hours (possible colic).

Vaccine Schedule

This schedule is a guide based on the CDC’s recommendations for childhood immunizations. It’s important to follow the pediatrician’s advice regarding vaccinations and discuss any concerns with them directly.

2 Months

  • Hepatitis B (HepB)
    • 2nd dose
  • Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP)
    • 1st dose
  • Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib)
    • 1st dose
  • Polio (IPV)
    • 1st dose
  • Pneumococcal conjugate (PCV13)
    • 1st dose
  • Rotavirus (RV)
    • 1st dose

Milestones to look out for

These milestones provide a general idea of what to expect, but individual variation is normal. If a child is significantly behind in multiple areas, it might be worth discussing with a pediatrician.

3 Months

  • Motor: Opens and closes hands; supports upper body with arms.
  • Social/Emotional: Enjoys playing with others.
  • Cognitive: Begins to recognize familiar objects.
  • Language: Begins to babble.

Common Concerns

These common concerns can help identify potential developmental delays. If you notice multiple areas of concern or major delays, it’s a good idea to consult a pediatrician for further evaluation.

3 Months:

  • Baby not reaching for or grabbing objects.
  • Baby is overly stiff or floppy.
  • Lack of social smiling or engagement with others.
  • Baby doesn’t turn toward sounds.
  • Constant crying or fussiness, especially at night.

Vaccine Schedule

This schedule is a guide based on the CDC’s recommendations for childhood immunizations. It’s important to follow the pediatrician’s advice regarding vaccinations and discuss any concerns with them directly.

4 Months

  • Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP)
    • 2nd dose
  • Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib)
    • 2nd dose
  • Polio (IPV)
    • 2nd dose
  • Pneumococcal conjugate (PCV13)
    • 2nd dose
  • Rotavirus (RV)
    • 2nd dose

Your 4 Month Well Visit

Milestones to look out for

These milestones provide a general idea of what to expect, but individual variation is normal. If a child is significantly behind in multiple areas, it might be worth discussing with a pediatrician.

4 Months

  • Motor: Rolls from tummy to back; pushes down with legs when feet are on a hard surface.
  • Social/Emotional: Smiles spontaneously, especially at people.
  • Cognitive: Reaches for toys with one hand.
  • Language: Laughs and mimics sounds.

5 Months

  • Motor: Rolls over in both directions.
  • Social/Emotional: Shows curiosity about surroundings.
  • Cognitive: Explores objects with hands and mouth.
  • Language: Makes more varied sounds.

Common Concerns

These common concerns can help identify potential developmental delays. If you notice multiple areas of concern or major delays, it’s a good idea to consult a pediatrician for further evaluation.

4 Months:

  • Baby not making any attempt to roll over.
  • Poor head control.
  • Baby not showing interest in toys or surroundings.
  • No cooing or vocalizing.
  • Baby not making eye contact or interacting socially.

5 Months:

  • Little to no interaction with caregivers or toys.
  • Lack of interest in reaching for objects.
  • Poor muscle tone or inability to support weight on legs when held upright.
  • Not responding to loud noises or voices.
  • Persistent head lag when pulled to a sitting position.

Vaccine Schedule

This schedule is a guide based on the CDC’s recommendations for childhood immunizations. It’s important to follow the pediatrician’s advice regarding vaccinations and discuss any concerns with them directly.

6 Months

  • Hepatitis B (HepB)
    • 3rd dose (can be given between 6-18 months)
  • Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP)
    • 3rd dose
  • Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib)
    • 3rd dose (depending on vaccine type)
  • Polio (IPV)
    • 3rd dose (can be given between 6-18 months)
  • Pneumococcal conjugate (PCV13)
    • 3rd dose
  • Rotavirus (RV)
    • 3rd dose (if a 3-dose series is used)
  • Influenza (Flu)
    • Annual vaccination (can start at 6 months and receive yearly)

Your 6 Month Well Visit

Your 9 Month Well Visit

Milestones to look out for

These milestones provide a general idea of what to expect, but individual variation is normal. If a child is significantly behind in multiple areas, it might be worth discussing with a pediatrician.

6 Months

  • Motor: Sits with support; may start to sit without support.
  • Social/Emotional: Recognizes familiar faces.
  • Cognitive: Begins to pass things from one hand to the other.
  • Language: Responds to sounds by making sounds.

7 Months

  • Motor: Sits without support; reaches for objects with one hand.
  • Social/Emotional: Enjoys social play.
  • Cognitive: Explores objects by shaking or banging them.
  • Language: Responds to own name.

8 Months

  • Motor: May start to crawl; pulls to stand with support.
  • Social/Emotional: Shows separation anxiety.
  • Cognitive: Looks for hidden objects.
  • Language: Makes a variety of sounds, including “mamama” or “bababa.”

9 Months

  • Motor: Stands while holding onto furniture.
  • Social/Emotional: Shows preferences for certain people and toys.
  • Cognitive: Watches the path of something as it falls.
  • Language: Understands “no”; copies sounds and gestures.

10 Months

  • Motor: Crawls well; may cruise along furniture.
  • Social/Emotional: Plays interactive games like peek-a-boo.
  • Cognitive: Finds hidden things easily.
  • Language: Uses gestures, such as shaking head for “no.”

11 Months

  • Motor: May start to stand alone.
  • Social/Emotional: Becomes more attached to caregivers.
  • Cognitive: Looks at things when named.
  • Language: Says “mama” and “dada” specifically.

Common Concerns

These common concerns can help identify potential developmental delays. If you notice multiple areas of concern or major delays, it’s a good idea to consult a pediatrician for further evaluation.

6 Months:

  • Baby not rolling over in either direction.
  • Lack of interest in toys or hands.
  • Baby not sitting with support or making attempts to sit independently.
  • Not responding to own name.
  • No laughing or squealing.

7 Months:

  • Not reaching for things, or not transferring objects between hands.
  • Stiffness or difficulty moving arms and legs.
  • Lack of babbling or any vocalization.
  • Baby doesn’t seem to recognize familiar faces.
  • Not enjoying interactive games like peek-a-boo.

8 Months:

  • Not attempting to crawl or move towards objects.
  • Baby not bearing weight on legs when supported.
  • No stranger anxiety or recognition of familiar caregivers.
  • Lack of vocalizing or mimicking sounds.
  • Baby doesn’t respond to their own name or show any curiosity.

9 Months:

  • Baby not sitting without support.
  • Lack of crawling or rolling as a means of movement.
  • No babbling or use of basic sounds like “mama” or “dada.”
  • No interest in playing with toys or exploring surroundings.
  • Baby not responding to familiar people.

10 Months:

  • Not attempting to pull up to stand or cruise.
  • Baby not showing affection or interest in caregivers.
  • Not using gestures like waving or shaking head.
  • Baby doesn’t seem to notice or react to people entering the room.
  • Limited vocalizations or no attempts to mimic speech sounds.

11 Months:

  • Baby not crawling or showing desire to move.
  • Difficulty standing even when holding onto furniture.
  • Not looking for hidden objects (peek-a-boo) or playing social games.
  • Lack of vocal variety, still only making simple sounds.
  • Baby not showing any interest in communicating or responding to language.

Vaccine Schedule

This schedule is a guide based on the CDC’s recommendations for childhood immunizations. It’s important to follow the pediatrician’s advice regarding vaccinations and discuss any concerns with them directly.

9 Months

  • Hepatitis B (HepB)
    • 3rd dose (if not given at 6 months)
  • Polio (IPV)
    • 3rd dose (if not given at 6 months)
  • Influenza (Flu)
    • Annual vaccination (if not given at 6 months)

Your 12 Month Well Visit

Your 18 Month Well Visit

Milestones to look out for

These milestones provide a general idea of what to expect, but individual variation is normal. If a child is significantly behind in multiple areas, it might be worth discussing with a pediatrician.

12 Months (1 Year)

  • Motor: May take first steps.
  • Social/Emotional: Waves goodbye; imitates gestures.
  • Cognitive: Starts to use objects correctly (e.g., drinks from a cup).
  • Language: Responds to simple spoken requests.

13-15 Months

  • Motor: Walks independently; starts to climb furniture.
  • Social/Emotional: Plays with other children; may show more independence.
  • Cognitive: Explores objects in different ways.
  • Language: Says a few words other than “mama” or “dada.”

16-18 Months

  • Motor: Walks well; may start running; climbs steps.
  • Social/Emotional: Starts to show defiance (e.g., “no” stage).
  • Cognitive: Knows the use of common objects like a phone.
  • Language: Says several single words.

19-21 Months

  • Motor: Runs easily; kicks a ball.
  • Social/Emotional: Shows more interest in playing with other kids.
  • Cognitive: Follows two-step commands like “Pick up the toy and give it to me.”
  • Language: Combines two words (e.g., “more juice”).

22-24 Months

  • Motor: Jumps with both feet; throws a ball overhand.
  • Social/Emotional: Shows increased independence; plays alongside others (parallel play).
  • Cognitive: Completes simple puzzles; begins to sort shapes and colors.
  • Language: Uses simple sentences; vocabulary rapidly expanding.

Milestones to look out for

These common concerns can help identify potential developmental delays. If you notice multiple areas of concern or major delays, it’s a good idea to consult a pediatrician for further evaluation.

13-15 Months:

  • Baby not walking or not using furniture to “cruise.”
  • Not saying any words or understanding basic commands.
  • Not pointing to objects or using gestures to communicate.
  • Limited or no interaction with caregivers or peers.
  • Baby doesn’t seem to understand or respond to their name.

16-18 Months:

  • Not walking independently.
  • Difficulty with balance or falling frequently.
  • Lack of interest in playing or interacting with others.
  • Not saying at least a few words.
  • Not understanding simple directions like “come here” or “give me that.”

19-21 Months:

  • Baby not running or kicking a ball.
  • Limited vocabulary or not combining two words.
  • Not imitating daily activities or playing pretend.
  • Baby shows little to no interest in interacting with caregivers or other children.
  • Persistent tantrums or frustration due to limited communication.

22-24 Months:

  • Difficulty with coordination (e.g., jumping, running).
  • Baby not using two-word phrases (e.g., “more milk”).
  • Not following two-step instructions.
  • Baby shows no interest in other children or parallel play.
  • Frequent frustration, tantrums, or inability to communicate needs.

Vaccine Schedule

This schedule is a guide based on the CDC’s recommendations for childhood immunizations. It’s important to follow the pediatrician’s advice regarding vaccinations and discuss any concerns with them directly.

12 Months

  • Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib)
    • Final dose (depending on vaccine type)
  • Pneumococcal conjugate (PCV13)
    • Final dose (4th dose)
  • Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
    • 1st dose
  • Varicella (Chickenpox)
    • 1st dose
  • Hepatitis A (HepA)
    • 1st dose (can be given at 12 months, with the 2nd dose 6 months later)
  • Influenza (Flu)
    • Annual vaccination

15 Months

  • Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP)
    • 4th dose
  • Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
    • 1st dose (if not given at 12 months)
  • Varicella (Chickenpox)
    • 1st dose (if not given at 12 months)
  • Hepatitis A (HepA)
    • 1st dose (if not given at 12 months)
  • Influenza (Flu)
    • Annual vaccination

18 Months

  • Hepatitis B (HepB)
    • 3rd dose (if not given earlier)
  • Polio (IPV)
    • 3rd dose (if not given earlier)
  • Hepatitis A (HepA)
    • 2nd dose (if 1st dose was given at 12 months)
  • Influenza (Flu)
    • Annual vaccination

19-23 Months

  • Influenza (Flu)
    • Annual vaccination

Your 2 Year Well Visit

Milestones to look out for

These milestones provide a general idea of what to expect, but individual variation is normal. If a child is significantly behind in multiple areas, it might be worth discussing with a pediatrician.

24 Months (2 Years)

  • Motor: Begins to run; climbs onto and down from furniture without help.
  • Social/Emotional: Shows defiant behavior; plays simple make-believe games.
  • Cognitive: Builds towers of 4 or more blocks; follows simple instructions.
  • Language: Has a vocabulary of about 50 words or more; speaks in two- to four-word sentences.

Common Concerns

These common concerns can help identify potential developmental delays. If you notice multiple areas of concern or major delays, it’s a good idea to consult a pediatrician for further evaluation.

24 Months (2 Years):

  • Not walking steadily or frequently falling.
  • Not using at least 50 words.
  • Difficulty understanding or following simple commands.
  • No interest in playing make-believe or mimicking adult activities.
  • Baby not engaging in any social interaction or showing extreme reactions (e.g., no fear or excessive fear of strangers).

Vaccine Schedule

This schedule is a guide based on the CDC’s recommendations for childhood immunizations. It’s important to follow the pediatrician’s advice regarding vaccinations and discuss any concerns with them directly.

2 Years (24 Months)

  • Influenza (Flu)
    • Annual vaccination

Understanding Common Concerns

For any of these concerns, regular check-ups with your pediatrician and open communication about your child’s progress are crucial in addressing potential developmental issues early on.

0-1 Month: Difficulty Breastfeeding or Latching

Breastfeeding can be challenging for many new parents and babies, and difficulty with latching or feeding is common. If your baby is struggling, it may be due to positioning, tongue-tie, or your milk supply. Lactation consultants can provide guidance and support. Keep in mind, every baby is different, and it may take time for you and your baby to establish a rhythm.

1 Month: Excessive Sleepiness or Lethargy

While newborns sleep a lot, if your baby seems excessively sleepy and hard to wake for feedings, it may be a sign of an underlying issue. Babies should wake every few hours to feed and show alert periods. Contact your pediatrician if your baby seems unusually lethargic or if you’re having difficulty getting them to feed.

2 Months: Baby Not Smiling

At around 2 months, babies typically start to smile in response to familiar faces. If your baby isn’t smiling, it may be too early, but it’s worth keeping an eye on. Social smiles are an important milestone in your baby’s development, showing they’re beginning to engage with their environment.

3 Months: Overly Stiff or Floppy

If your baby seems either unusually stiff or floppy, it may indicate muscle tone issues. Stiffness may suggest conditions like hypertonia, while floppiness may signal hypotonia or low muscle tone. If your baby struggles to control their head or move their limbs fluidly, talk to your pediatrician about possible interventions.

4 Months: Not Making Eye Contact

By 4 months, babies typically begin to make eye contact and follow objects with their eyes. Lack of this skill could be a sign of developmental delays or vision issues. Observing your baby’s ability to track objects and respond to your face is an important step in early detection.

5 Months: Poor Head Control

By this age, your baby should be able to hold their head steady when sitting upright. If you notice your baby still has poor head control or lags significantly when pulled to a sitting position, it could signal a delay in muscle development that should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

6 Months: No Babbling

Babbling is an early form of communication, and at 6 months, babies typically start making repetitive sounds like “ba-ba” or “da-da.” If your baby isn’t vocalizing much, it could be due to hearing or developmental issues. Encouraging conversation and responding to your baby’s sounds helps stimulate their language development.

7 Months: Not Reaching for Objects

Babies usually reach for and grasp objects by this age. If your baby shows no interest in reaching or grabbing, it may be due to muscle weakness or developmental concerns. It’s a good idea to observe how they engage with toys and encourage reaching during playtime.

8 Months: Not Bearing Weight on Legs

By 8 months, babies often start bearing weight on their legs when supported. If your baby isn’t doing this, it could be due to muscle tone issues or delayed motor development. It’s helpful to practice standing with your baby and monitor any resistance or discomfort they show.

9 Months: Baby Not Sitting Without Support

Sitting independently is a key developmental milestone. If your baby cannot sit without support by 9 months, this might signal delayed gross motor development. Giving them plenty of tummy time and opportunities to practice sitting can help, but consult your pediatrician if you’re concerned.

10 Months: Not Pulling Up to Stand

By this age, babies often pull themselves up to a standing position using furniture or other objects. If your baby hasn’t started pulling up or showing an interest in standing, it may indicate delays in their motor skills. Help them practice standing with assistance to encourage their progress.

11 Months: Not Using Gestures

Gestures like waving, pointing, or shaking their head are early forms of communication that usually emerge by this age. If your baby isn’t using gestures, it could be an early sign of a speech or developmental delay. Encourage communication through play, talking, and pointing to objects as you name them.

12 Months: Not Standing or Attempting to Walk

By 12 months, many babies start standing or taking their first steps. If your child isn’t attempting to stand or seems uninterested in walking, it’s worth discussing with your pediatrician. Every baby develops at their own pace, but your pediatrician can help assess if there’s a need for intervention.

13-15 Months: Not Walking

While some children may walk a bit later, most start taking steps between 12-15 months. If your baby is not walking or showing interest in walking by 15 months, they may need extra support or physical therapy to strengthen their legs and coordination. It’s important to create a safe environment for them to practice.

16-18 Months: Limited Vocabulary

By 18 months, your baby should have a few words in their vocabulary and be able to follow simple instructions. If your child isn’t speaking or understanding basic commands, it could be a sign of delayed speech or language development. Early intervention with a speech therapist can be very beneficial.

19-21 Months: Not Playing or Interacting with Others

Toddlers are often interested in exploring and interacting with their surroundings and other children by this age. If your child shows little interest in playing or engaging socially, it might indicate a developmental concern. It’s important to encourage interactive play and watch for signs of social withdrawal.

22-24 Months: Not Using Two-Word Phrases

At 2 years old, toddlers typically begin combining words into simple phrases like “more juice” or “want toy.” If your child isn’t forming two-word combinations, they may have a language delay. Talk to your pediatrician about possible speech therapy or evaluation to help them catch up.

Important Things to Know

Developmental Milestones All Parents Should Know

Your Newborn's First Dr Visit

Newborn Sleeping Habits

Feeding Your Baby

Newborn Rashes

Bathing a Newborn

Washing Baby's Hair

FAQ for First-Time Parents

These FAQs aim to provide parents with quick answers and reassurance during the early months of parenting. It’s always helpful to discuss any specific concerns with your pediatrician.

Newborns sleep a lot—typically 16 to 18 hours a day. They sleep in short cycles, usually 2-4 hours at a time. As your baby grows, their sleep patterns will start to consolidate, with more extended periods of nighttime sleep by 3 to 6 months.

Newborns typically need to eat every 2-3 hours. For breastfed babies, this means about 8-12 feedings a day. Formula-fed babies may eat slightly less often, every 3-4 hours. Follow your baby’s hunger cues (rooting, sucking, crying) and talk to your pediatrician about feeding concerns.

Many babies can sleep through the night (5-6 hours) by around 3-4 months, though every baby is different. A consistent bedtime routine and encouraging self-soothing can help, but it’s normal for babies to wake for feeding or comfort during the first year.

Babies cry to communicate, and common reasons include hunger, discomfort, or needing a diaper change. If your baby is fussy, try soothing techniques like swaddling, gentle rocking, offering a pacifier, or playing calming sounds. If the crying is excessive or you’re worried, consult your pediatrician.

Signs your baby is getting enough milk include regular weight gain, at least 6-8 wet diapers per day, and contentment after feedings. If you’re concerned about your milk supply or your baby’s feeding habits, speak with your pediatrician or a lactation consultant.

A fever in babies is generally considered a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. Use a rectal thermometer for the most accurate reading in infants. If your baby is younger than 3 months and has a fever, contact your pediatrician immediately.

If your baby is breathing rapidly, flaring their nostrils, or seems to be struggling to breathe, seek medical help right away. Watch for signs of respiratory distress, such as bluish lips or lethargy. Always trust your instincts—if something feels off, call your doctor.

Diaper rash is common and can usually be treated by keeping your baby’s bottom clean and dry. Use a barrier cream with zinc oxide and let the skin air out whenever possible. If the rash persists or worsens, consult your pediatrician for other treatments.

Most babies begin rolling over between 4 and 6 months. Tummy time can help strengthen your baby’s muscles and prepare them for rolling. If your baby isn’t showing signs of rolling by 6 months, talk to your pediatrician.

Babies are typically ready for solid foods around 6 months, when they can sit up with support and show interest in what you’re eating. Start with single-ingredient purees or baby cereals, and introduce new foods gradually to check for allergies.

Common signs of teething include drooling, fussiness, gum swelling, and a desire to chew on things. Teething can start as early as 3 months, but the first tooth usually appears around 6 months. To soothe your baby’s gums, offer a cold teething ring or gently rub their gums with a clean finger.

Flat head syndrome can occur when babies spend too much time on their backs. To prevent it, offer plenty of tummy time when your baby is awake, change their sleeping position, and avoid extended time in car seats or swings.

Vaccines protect your baby from serious illnesses. The CDC recommends starting vaccinations at birth, including Hepatitis B, and continuing with shots at 2, 4, 6, and 12 months, including DTaP, Hib, Polio, MMR, and more. Follow the vaccination schedule provided by your pediatrician.

Start baby-proofing before your baby becomes mobile. Install safety gates, cover electrical outlets, secure heavy furniture, and lock away harmful substances like cleaning supplies and medications. Also, make sure small objects are kept out of reach to prevent choking hazards.

Call your pediatrician if your baby:

  • Has a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, especially if under 3 months old
  • Shows signs of dehydration (fewer wet diapers)
  • Has trouble breathing or persistent coughing
  • Experiences vomiting or diarrhea for an extended period
  • Shows no signs of developmental progress (e.g., not smiling, rolling, or making sounds)

Bonding happens naturally through cuddling, feeding, talking, and playing with your baby. Skin-to-skin contact, singing, and making eye contact are all excellent ways to strengthen your connection. Responding to your baby’s needs consistently helps build trust and attachment.

Most newborns lose some weight in the first few days but regain it within two weeks. On average, babies gain about 5-7 ounces per week for the first few months. Your pediatrician will track your baby’s growth at regular check-ups.

Babies typically start crawling between 6 and 10 months. Some babies may scoot or roll instead. Give your baby plenty of tummy time to help strengthen their muscles and encourage movement. If your baby isn’t showing interest in crawling by 12 months, consult your pediatrician.

Developmental milestones are physical, cognitive, and social-emotional achievements that most children reach by a certain age. These include smiling, sitting up, crawling, and walking. Every baby develops at their own pace, but your pediatrician will check for progress at routine visits.

Caring for a baby can be overwhelming. It’s essential to take care of yourself too. Try to rest when your baby sleeps, ask for help when you need it, and take breaks when possible. Remember that it’s okay to prioritize your own mental and physical well-being.

New Parents Survival Guide

“The Parents Survival Guide” by Dr. Clifford James – your go-to resource for navigating every stage of raising your baby with ease and confidence. Packed with practical advice and delivered in a fun, relaxed tone, this guide is here to make parenting feel a little less overwhelming and a lot more enjoyable. Read on to learn more!