Well Check Visit Schedule and What To Expect at Each Visit

​​​​Your baby will have many well check visits in their first three years of life. Learn what to expect at each baby well check with the schedule below.

Well Check Visit Schedule

• Baby Well Check Newborn and/or 1 Week Visit

  What to Expect at Your Baby’s Check-up

  • Your pediatrician will monitor your baby's growth by tracking height, weight and head circumference.

  Information

  • Breast Milk: Can be stored for two to five days in a refrigerator or for six months in a freezer.
  • Vitamin D: Recent studies have shown that there is not enough vitamin D in breast milk and recommends giving your baby 1 ml/day. Vitamin D drops (400 IU) are also available. Consult your pediatrician for your child’s dosage. Mothers who are nursing need to continue their prenatal vitamins.
  • Immunization Resources:
    • https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/
    • https://www.aap.org/immunization
    • https://healthychildren.org​​
• Baby Well Check 2 Weeks Visit

  What to Expect at Your Baby’s Check-up

  • Your pediatrician will monitor your baby's growth by tracking height, weight and head circumference.

  Information

  • Sleep

    By 2 weeks of age, most babies are waking up two to four times a night to feed. A reasonable goal is for your baby to sleep through the night by 4 to 6 months of age.

  • Nutrition
    • Breastfeeding: Your baby should be eating every two to four hours during the day.
    • Starting Solid Foods: Solid foods are often introduced at 4 to 6 months of age. The American Academy of Pediatricians updated their recommendation on the order of starting baby foods based on science.
    • Vitamin D: Recent studies have shown that there is not enough vitamin D in breast milk and recommends giving your baby 1 ml/day. Vitamin D drops (400 IU) are also available. Consult your pediatrician for your child’s dosage. Mothers who are nursing need to continue their prenatal vitamins.
• Baby Well Check 1 Month Visit
  • Your pediatrician may recommend a 1 month visit if you are first time parents, a breastfeeding mom, there are growth concerns for your baby and/or your baby is a NICU graduate. You may also request a 1 month visit if you have any concerns about your baby.
  • There will be no immunizations given at a 1 month visit.
• Baby Well Check 2 Months Visit

  What to Expect at Your Baby’s Check-up

  • Immunizations
    • HIB–Protects your infant against spinal meningitis caused by bacteria Haemophilus Influenza type B.
    • Polio–We only recommend the injectable form. It is safer because it is a killed virus.
    • DTaP–This is an injection containing antigens of Diptheria, Pertussis (Whooping Cough) and Tetanus.
    • Hepatitis B–Protects against Hepatitis B.
    • Rotavirus–Protects against rotavirus, which causes severe vomiting, diarrhea and dehydration.
    • Pneumococcus –Protects against 13 strains of the pneumococcal bacterial which can cause ear infections, sinus infections, pneumonia and meningitis. (The pneumococcal vaccine in use as of fall 2023 will protect against 20 strains.)
    • If your child is not up-to-date on immunizations, he or she may receive vaccinations at this visit.
  • Your pediatrician will monitor your baby's growth by tracking height, weight and head circumference.

  Information

  • Development: Your baby should have developed a social smile and enjoy interacting with people.
  • Vitamin D: Recent studies have shown that there is not enough vitamin D in breast milk and recommends giving your baby 1 ml/day, until your baby drinks 15 ounces of formula or whole milk per day. Vitamin D drops (400 IU) are also available. Consult your pediatrician for your child’s dosage.
• Baby Well Check 4 Months Visit

  What to Expect at Your Baby’s Check-up

  • Immunizations
    • Your child will receive the same series of immunizations as at the 2-month visit.
    • HIB–Protects your infant against spinal meningitis caused by bacteria Haemophilus Influenza type B.
    • Polio–We only recommend the injectable form. It is safer because it is a killed virus.
    • DTaP–This is an injection containing antigens of Diptheria, Pertussis (Whooping Cough) and Tetanus.
    • Hepatitis B–Protects against Hepatitis B.
    • Rotavirus–Protects against rotavirus, which causes severe vomiting, diarrhea and dehydration.
    • Pneumococcus​–Protects against 13 strains of the pneumococcal bacterial which can cause ear infections, sinus infections, pneumonia and meningitis. (The pneumococcal vaccine in use as of fall 2023 will protect against 20 strains.)
    • If your child is not up-to-date on immunizations, he or she may receive vaccinations at this visit.
  • Your pediatrician will monitor your baby's growth by tracking height, weight and head circumference.

  Information

  • Development: This is an exciting period in your life as you notice your child developing new skills. When infants began to babble, they like the people around them to talk back. Have fun talking, singing, reading and playing games with your child.
  • Teething: At this age, most infants are drooling, which means their salivary glands are now beginning to work. Most infants get their first tooth at about 6 months of age.
• Baby Well Check 6 Months Visit

  What to Expect at Your Baby’s Check-up

  • Immunizations
    • HIB–Protects your infant against spinal meningitis caused by bacteria Haemophilus Influenza type B.
    • Polio–We only recommend the injectable form. It is safer because it is a killed virus.
    • DTaP–This is an injection containing antigens of Diptheria, Pertussis (Whooping Cough) and Tetanus.
    • Hepatitis B–Protects against Hepatitis B.
    • Pneumococcus​–Protects against 13 strains of the pneumococcal bacterial which can cause ear infections, sinus infections, pneumonia and meningitis. (The pneumococcal vaccine in use as of fall 2023 will protect against 20 strains.)
    • A third dose of Rotavirus vaccine is needed if your baby received the RotaTeq vaccine (this is not the vaccine used by Boys Town Pediatrics).
    • COVID-19 vaccine – This vaccine is recommended for all patients 6 months of age and older. The number and timing of doses varies on age and vaccination status.
    • Influenza vaccine – This is recommended for all patients 6 months of age and older, during Influenza season (i.e., fall to spring).
    • If your child is not up-to-date on immunizations, he or she may receive vaccinations at this visit.
  • Your pediatrician will monitor your baby's growth by tracking height, weight and head circumference.

  Information

  • Development: Babies at this age are babbling, laughing and crying. Use your instincts and interact with your baby whenever possible. One parenting strategy is to use baby sign language starting around 6 to 8 months of age to develop communication skills.
  • At this age, babies are usually rolling over and beginning to sit by themselves. About the time your baby crawls (7 to 10 months of age) you will notice their vision has improved significantly. Your baby will see well enough to notice when you leave the room and recognize strangers. If you see any eye-crossing at this age, please bring it to our attention, as it is not normal after 4 to 6 months of age.
  • Sleep: Most 6-month old babies are sleeping through the night and taking two naps per day.
• Baby Well Check 9 Months Visit

  What to Expect at Your Baby’s Check-up

  • Immunizations
    • COVID-19 vaccine – This vaccine is recommended for all patients 6 months of age and older. The number and timing of doses varies on age and vaccination status.
    • Influenza vaccine – This is recommended for all patients 6 months of age and older, during Influenza season (i.e., fall to spring).
    • If your child is not up-to-date on immunizations, he or she may receive vaccinations at this visit.
  • Your pediatrician will monitor your baby's growth by tracking height, weight and head circumference.

  Information

  • Safety: To prevent injuries, watch your child at all times and baby-proof your home. Make sure you have the Poison Control Center number (402-955-5555) easily accessible.

  • Dental: Once your child has teeth, you should become concerned about prevention of tooth decay. Clean teeth daily with a soft toothbrush or soft cloth. The best times are after breakfast and before bed.
    

• Baby Well Check 1 Year Visit

  What to Expect at Your Baby’s Check-up

  • Immunizations
    • MMR - Vaccine to prevent Measles, Mumps and Rubella. Up to 10 percent of children who receive this vaccine run a fever is 7 to 10 days. Try not to schedule this visit one week before a holiday, etc.
    • Varicella - Vaccine to prevent Chickenpox.
    • Hepatitis A - This mandatory immunization protects from Hepatitis A infections. Hepatitis A is a virus that is usually transmitted by eating contaminated food. Your child will need two injections. The first is usually given at 1 year of age, and the second needs to be at least 6 months after the first.
    • HIB (May be given at 12 months or 15 months) – Protects your infant against spinal meningitis caused by bacteria Haemophilus Influenza type B.
    • Pneumococcus​ (May be given at 12 months or 15 months) – Protects against 13 strains of the pneumococcal bacterial which can cause ear infections, sinus infections, pneumonia and meningitis. (The pneumococcal vaccine in use as of fall 2023 will protect against 20 strains.)
    • COVID-19 vaccine – This vaccine is recommended for all patients 6 months of age and older. The number and timing of doses varies on age and vaccination status.
    • Influenza vaccine – This is recommended for all patients 6 months of age and older, during Influenza season (i.e., fall to spring).
  • Your pediatrician will monitor your baby's growth by tracking height, weight and head circumference.

  Information

  • Nutrition
    • At 1 year of age most children are eating entirely from the table.
    • Vitamin D– Switch from formula to milk in a cup. Whole milk is no longer necessary unless you feel your child needs extra calories. We recommend your child drink whatever the rest of the family drinks. 600 IU/day of vitamin D is recommended from ages 1 to 69. Your child needs to drink three cups of milk per day to meet this requirement.
    • Iron–Toddlers 1 through 3 years of age should have an iron intake of 7mg/day. This would be best delivered by eating red meats, cereals fortified with iron, vegetables that contain iron and fruits with vitamin C, which augments the absorptions of iron. For toddlers not receiving this iron intake, liquid supplements are suitable for children 12 through 36 months of age and chewable multi-vitamins can be used for children age 3 and older. Seafood and other meats are also good sources of dietary iron.
  • Dental

    Remember to clean your child’s teeth daily. Pediatric dentists see children at 1 year of age.

• Baby Well Check 15 Months Visit

  What to Expect at Your Baby’s Check-up

  • Immunizations
    • HIB (May be given at 12 months or 15 months) – Protects your infant against spinal meningitis caused by bacteria Haemophilus Influenza type B.
    • Pneumococcus​ (May be given at 12 months or 15 months) – Protects against 13 strains of the pneumococcal bacterial which can cause ear infections, sinus infections, pneumonia and meningitis. (The pneumococcal vaccine in use as of fall 2023 will protect against 20 strains.)
    • DTaP (May be given at 15 months or 18 months) – This is an injection containing antigens of Diptheria, Pertussis (Whooping Cough) and Tetanus.
    • COVID-19 vaccine – This vaccine is recommended for all patients 6 months of age and older. The number and timing of doses varies on age and vaccination status.
    • Influenza vaccine – This is recommended for all patients 6 months of age and older, during Influenza season (i.e., fall to spring).
  • Development

    At the 18 month visit, a developmental screening will be administered to verify your child’s development is progressing appropriately.

  • Your pediatrician will monitor your baby's growth by tracking height, weight and head circumference.

  Information

  • Nutrition
    • At 15 months of age, your child may be eating less and mealtimes are often inconsistent. This is because growth rate has slowed and so has the appetite. Offer a diet consisting of meats, dairy products, fruits, vegetables and whole-grain foods. Avoid juices and sugar in the diet. The goal is to have three meals a day and mid-morning, afternoon and bedtime snacks.
    • Feeding– At this age, your child is showcasing growing independence through trying to feed himself. Until your child acquires the coordination to use a fork and spoon, provide him with finger foods. Make sure to cut the food into small pieces to avoid choking.
  • Safety

    It is time to evaluate your child’s car seat. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends a backward-facing car seat for as long as possible. Each car seat is different, so you should read your car seat manual for specific height and weight limits. For up-to-date car seat safety information, visit healthychildren.org.

  • Dental

    Daily brushing with a small amount of toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice) containing fluoride is now recommended. AAP suggests that parents begin preventative dental examinations when the child’s first tooth appears – no later than 1 year of age.

• Baby Well Check 18 Months Visit

  What to Expect at Your Baby’s Check-up

  • Immunizations
    • DTaP (May be given at 15 months or 18 months) – This is an injection containing antigens of Diptheria, Pertussis (Whooping Cough) and Tetanus.
    • Hepatitis A - This mandatory immunization protects from Hepatitis A infections. Hepatitis A is a virus that is usually transmitted by eating contaminated food. Your child will need two injections. The first is usually given at 1 year of age, and the second needs to be at least 6 months after the first.
    • COVID-19 vaccine – This vaccine is recommended for all patients 6 months of age and older. The number and timing of doses varies on age and vaccination status.
    • Influenza vaccine – This is recommended for all patients 6 months of age and older, during Influenza season (i.e., fall to spring).
  • Your pediatrician will monitor your baby's growth by tracking height, weight and head circumference.

  Information

  • Nutrition
    • At this age, your child is trying to become more independent. Your child will try to feed himself/herself with a spoon and fork and begin to show more likes and dislikes for certain foods. Try to get in something from each food group.
      • Meat, fish, poultry, eggs
      • Milk, cheese and other dairy products
      • Fruits and vegetables
      • Cereals, potatoes, rice, flour products
    • Vitamin D– Whole milk is no longer necessary unless your child needs extra calories. We recommend your child drink whatever the rest of the family drinks. 600 IU/day of vitamin D is recommended from ages 1 to 6. Your child needs to drink three cups of milk per day to meet this requirement.
    • Iron– Toddlers 1 through 3 years of age should have an iron intake of 7mg/day. This would be best delivered by eating red meats, cereals fortified with iron, vegetables that contain iron and fruits with vitamin C, which augments the absorptions of iron. For toddlers not receiving this iron intake, liquid supplements are suitable for children 12 through 36 months of age and chewable multi-vitamins can be used for children age 3 and older. Seafood and other meats are also good sources of dietary iron.
    • COVID-19 vaccine – This vaccine is recommended for all patients 6 months of age and older. The number and timing of doses varies on age and vaccination status.
    • Influenza vaccine – This is recommended for all patients 6 months of age and older, during Influenza season (i.e., fall to spring).
• Baby Well Check 2 Years of Age

  What to Expect at Your Baby’s Check-up

  • Immunizations
    
    • COVID-19 vaccine – This vaccine is recommended for all patients 6 months of age and older. The number and timing of doses varies on age and vaccination status.
    • Influenza vaccine – This is recommended for all patients 6 months of age and older, during Influenza season (i.e., fall to spring).
    • If your child is not up-to-date on immunizations, he or she may receive vaccinations at this visit.
  • Your pediatrician will monitor your child's growth by tracking height and weight.
  • At 2 years of age, your pediatrician will also begin to monitor your child's BMI.

  Information

  • Nutrition

    Your child’s growth rate will continue to slow down for the next four years. The average child gains about 4 pounds and grows 2.5 inches per year.

  • Development

    Your child is full of movement and personality at this age. You should be impressed by your child’s activity and improving coordination. Running, climbing stairs, climbing on furniture and throwing objects are a few of the skills he is acquiring. Your child should also be able to use a spoon and fork at mealtime. You​ will hear his vocabulary increase and notice he is putting words together.

  • Safety
    • The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you use a car safety seat with a harness until your child has passed the highest weight or height allowed by the car safety seat’s manufacturer. For up-to-date car seat safety information, visit healthychildren.org​.
    • It may be time to baby-proof your house again, as your toddler is now taller and more skilled at opening doors and getting into mischief. Many parents go through every room in their house and move valuable, dangerous or messy items out of their child’s reach. Because of your child’s mobility and lack of knowledge about what is dangerous and expensive, he must be constantly monitored.
• Baby Well Check 2.5 Years of Age

  What to Expect at Your Baby’s Check-up

  Information

  • Immunizations
    
    • COVID-19 vaccine – This vaccine is recommended for all patients 6 months of age and older. The number and timing of doses varies on age and vaccination status.
    • Influenza vaccine – This is recommended for all patients 6 months of age and older, during Influenza season (i.e., fall to spring).
    • If your child is not up-to-date on immunizations, he or she may receive vaccinations at this visit.
  • Nutrition

    Your child’s growth rate will continue to slow down for the next four years. The average child gains about 4 pounds and grows 2.5 inches per year.

  • Development

    Your child is full of movement and personality at this age. You should be impressed by your child’s activity and improving coordination. Running, climbing stairs, climbing on furniture and throwing objects are a few of the skills he is acquiring. Your child should also be able to use a spoon and fork at mealtime. You​ will hear his vocabulary increase and notice he is putting words together.

  • Safety
    • The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you use a car safety seat with a harness until your child has passed the highest weight or height allowed by the car safety seat’s manufacturer. For up-to-date car seat safety information, visit healthychildren.org​.
    • It may be time to baby-proof your house again, as your toddler is now taller and more skilled at opening doors and getting into mischief. Many parents go through every room in their house and move valuable, dangerous or messy items out of their child’s reach. Because of your child’s mobility and lack of knowledge about what is dangerous and expensive, he must be constantly monitored.
• Baby Well Check 3 Years of Age

  What to Expect at Your Baby’s Check-up

  Information

  • Immunizations
    
    • COVID-19 vaccine – This vaccine is recommended for all patients 6 months of age and older. The number and timing of doses varies on age and vaccination status.
    • Influenza vaccine – This is recommended for all patients 6 months of age and older, during Influenza season (i.e., fall to spring).
    • If your child is not up-to-date on immunizations, he or she may receive vaccinations at this visit.
  • Your pediatrician will monitor your child's growth by tracking height, weight and BMI.
  • Nutrition

    At this age, your child should be continuing to eat a balanced diet. Avoid any extra sugar, specifically juices and soda, and include fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy, lean meats and whole-grain products. Lowfat or nonfat milk is recommended. If your child does not consume three glasses of milk a day, consider a vitamin D supplement or a multivitamin.

  • Development

    You will notice your child is full of energy and may spend a lot of time observing, imitating, investigating and asking “why” questions. At this age, children love to spend time with parents and enjoy helping out with simple household tasks. Your child will enjoy being around and​ playing with other children, which is important for learning social skills.

  • Dental​

    Your child should brush teeth regularly after meals. When your child can spit out toothpaste, you can begin using more than a smear (size of a grain of rice) of fluoride-containing toothpaste. Your child should visit the dentist for check-ups every 6 months.

  • Safety

    Do not expect your child to stay out of things just because you said no. Maintain a baby-proof home and monitor your child’s activity at all times.

  • Education

    Talk to your child often about colors, numbers and shapes in your everyday conversation. Ask your child for help with simple tasks, such as placing the napkins by each plate, putting socks in the drawer or stirring the muffin batter. Continue to read to your child often and begin to sing simple songs.

  • Toilet Training

    Many parents worry that their child is not yet potty-trained, but about 50 percent of 3-year-olds will not be toilet trained.

  • Bed-Wetting

    At this age, some children sleep so soundly that they sleep through the feeling of a full bladder and empty it during deep sleep. Try to have your child empty his/her bladder before going to bed and have your child practice getting up and going to the bath​room at night.