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Well Child Visit at 4 Months

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 3, 2024.

What is a well child visit?

A well child visit is when your child sees a healthcare provider to prevent health problems. Well child visits are used to track your child's growth and development. It is also a time for you to ask questions and to get information on how to keep your child safe. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them. Your child should have regular well child visits from birth to 17 years.

What development milestones may my baby reach at 4 months?

Each baby develops at his or her own pace. Your baby might have already reached the following milestones, or he or she may reach them later:

What can I do when my baby cries?

Your baby may cry because he or she is hungry. He or she may have a wet diaper, or feel hot or cold. He or she may cry for no reason you can find. Your baby may cry more often in the evening or late afternoon. It can be hard to listen to your baby cry and not be able to calm him or her down. Ask for help and take a break if you feel stressed or overwhelmed. Never shake your baby to try to stop his or her crying. This can cause blindness or brain damage. The following may help comfort your baby:

What can I do to keep my baby safe in the car?

What can I do to keep my baby safe at home?

How should I lay my baby down to sleep?

It is very important to lay your baby down to sleep in safe surroundings. This can greatly reduce his or her risk for SIDS. Tell grandparents, babysitters, and anyone else who cares for your baby the following rules:

What do I need to know about feeding my baby?

Breast milk or iron-fortified formula is the only food your baby needs for the first 4 to 6 months of life.

What do I need to know about peanut allergies?

How can I help my baby get physical activity?

Your baby needs physical activity so his or her muscles can develop. Encourage your baby to be active through play. The following are some ways that you can encourage your baby to be active:

What are other ways I can care for my baby?

How can I care for myself during this time?

What do I need to know about my baby's next well child visit?

Your baby's healthcare provider will tell you when to bring your baby in again. The next well child visit is usually at 6 months. Contact your child's healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns about your baby's health or care before the next visit. Your baby may need vaccines at the next well child visit. Your provider will tell you which vaccines your baby needs and when your baby should get them.

Recommended Immunization Schedule 2022

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your baby's care. Learn about your baby's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your baby's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your baby. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.