baby monthly doctor visit

Family Life

AAP Schedule of Well-Child Care Visits

Parents know who they should go to when their child is sick. But pediatrician visits are just as important for healthy children.

The Bright Futures /American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) developed a set of comprehensive health guidelines for well-child care, known as the " periodicity schedule ." It is a schedule of screenings and assessments recommended at each well-child visit from infancy through adolescence.

Schedule of well-child visits

• The first week visit (3 to 5 days old)
• 1 month old
• 2 months old
• 4 months old
• 6 months old
• 9 months old
• 12 months old
• 15 months old
• 18 months old
• 2 years old (24 months)
• 2 ½ years old (30 months)
• 3 years old
• 4 years old
• 5 years old
• 6 years old
• 7 years old
• 8 years old
• 9 years old
• 10 years old
• 11 years old
• 12 years old
• 13 years old
• 14 years old
• 15 years old
• 16 years old
• 17 years old
• 18 years old
• 19 years old
• 20 years old
• 21 years old

The benefits of well-child visits

Prevention . Your child gets scheduled immunizations to prevent illness. You also can ask your pediatrician about nutrition and safety in the home and at school.

Tracking growth & development . See how much your child has grown in the time since your last visit, and talk with your doctor about your child's development. You can discuss your child's milestones, social behaviors and learning.

Raising any concerns . Make a list of topics you want to talk about with your child's pediatrician such as development, behavior, sleep, eating or getting along with other family members. Bring your top three to five questions or concerns with you to talk with your pediatrician at the start of the visit.

Team approach . Regular visits create strong, trustworthy relationships among pediatrician, parent and child. The AAP recommends well-child visits as a way for pediatricians and parents to serve the needs of children. This team approach helps develop optimal physical, mental and social health of a child.

More information

Back to School, Back to Doctor

Recommended Immunization Schedules

Milestones Matter: 10 to Watch for by Age 5

Your Child's Checkups

• Bright Futures/AAP Recommendations for Preventive Pediatric Health Care (periodicity schedule)

Your Baby’s 1-Month Health Check

Your baby's first health checkup will be about one month after you bring him home from the hospital. Your provider will check his weight and height, and offer you advice on how to handle minor illnesses or concerns at home and when to call the doctor.

You're still getting used to life with your baby, so give yourself as much time for this checkup as you can. Bring along whatever you need to keep your baby warm, fed, and contented, and make sure to bring a copy of your newborn's hospital record, if you have it.

At This Visit, Your Provider Will Probably:

Weigh and measure your baby to make sure he's growing at a healthy rate.

Check that his umbilical cord stump has fallen off and the belly button is healing well. If your baby son was circumcised, your provider will check that this is healing as well.

Give your baby a hepatitis shot if he didn't get one at the hospital or at a previous doctor's visit.

Address any health concerns that he or she notices, such as cradle cap or diaper rash.

Ask you about your baby's sleeping, eating, and elimination patterns.

What Your Healthcare Provider Will Want To Know

Has your baby seen another healthcare provider since the last visit? If so, why? What was the outcome of that visit, and were any medications or treatments prescribed?

Does your baby hold her head up when you put her on her tummy?

Does she quiet down, at least briefly, when she hears you or when you pick her up?

Does she sleep a little longer during some part of the day or night?

Does she have longer periods when she's alert?

Does she follow you with her eyes, and study your eyes and face when you're close?

Does she respond to your voice or other sounds?

Is she put to sleep on her back? Are her bedding and room appropriate?

Does she watch a mobile above her?

Is she a little fussier at the end of the day? All of these behaviors are expected at this time.

If you are breastfeeding, are you taking any medication or supplements?

Are there any special stresses or changes at home?

Talk It Over

You no doubt have many other concerns. Now's the time to discuss them with your provider. Here are a few common issues:

How is your baby eating and sleeping? Let your provider know how often your baby eats.

Talk about how siblings and other family members are adjusting.

Ask about crying management and comforting techniques. Your baby should respond to being held. Discuss pacifier use as well.

New parents always have questions. Your healthcare provider is there to help, so don't be shy. For example, you should speak up if the following situations apply to you:

People are giving you advice that confuses you or is contradictory.

Your baby doesn't respond to sounds, especially your voice.

Your baby isn't moving both hands and feet equally.

Your baby has a puffy or runny eye.

Your baby doesn't focus on your face when she is alert.

You're having a hard time comforting your baby.

You're feeling blue, or having a hard time sleeping or eating.

You're going back to work soon, and you're not sure how you're going to manage it.

Your baby doesn't stay awake for more than 30 minutes at a time.

Although every baby is different and reaches developmental milestones at unique times, it's always reassuring to discuss any issues or concerns about your baby's development with your provider.

Review this article:

Read more about baby.

• Explore Baby Sleep
• Parenting Life
• Development

Join a World of Support

through Pregnancy and Parenthood.

TRACK WITH TOOLS

LEARN WITH EXPERTS

GET REWARDED

Where You Already Belong

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

Raise a Reader! Ideas for Reading with Baby at Any Age

Infant Vision Development: Why are Baby’s Eyes Crossed?

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Newborn Care

What to Expect at Your Baby’s First Pediatrician Visit

Nervous about your baby's first pediatrician visit? Here's what to expect, from paperwork to meeting the doctor, plus tips for making the visit easier for you and your baby.

Your baby should have their first well-baby visit at the pediatrician's office three to five days after birth, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). After that, you'll be going in for checkups every few months over the course of the first year.

Since your baby's first pediatrician visit might be the first time your newborn leaves home, it's natural to feel some trepidation. But remember that this visit is often empowering and informative for new parents. Read on to learn what to expect during your baby's first pediatrician visit, from exams to vaccinations, as well as tips for timing and preparation.

There Will Be Paperwork

Be prepared to fill out paperwork when you arrive. Remember to pack the following:

• Your ID and health insurance card
• Information about your newborn's discharge weight
• Any complications during pregnancy or birth
• Your family's medical history

Knowing that your older child has asthma or your parents have diabetes, for example, focuses your pediatrician's attention on likely problems, says Christopher Pohlod, DO , assistant professor of pediatrics at Michigan State University's College of Osteopathic Medicine.

The Nurse Will Do Some Exams

A nurse will probably handle the first part of your baby's exam. They'll do the following:

• Weigh your naked baby on a scale
• Extend their limbs to measure height and width
• Use a tape measure to determine the head circumference

According to the AAP, it's normal for babies to lose weight after birth (up to 10% of their body weight). But they'll generally gain it back within a couple of weeks.

You'll Get to Know the Doctor

The pediatrician will examine your baby, educate you about their health, and answer any questions. One of the biggest components of the first pediatrician visit is developing a relationship with your child's new doctor. They will be a source of information, support, and troubleshooting in the many years to come.

They'll Check Your Baby's Neck and Collarbone

At your baby's first pediatrician visit, a health care provider will feel along your baby's neckline to check for a broken collarbone during the physical exam. That's because some babies fracture their clavicle while squeezing through the birth canal.

If your pediatrician finds a small bump, that could mean a break is starting to heal. It will mend on its own in a few weeks. In the meantime, they may suggest pinning the baby's sleeve across their chest to stabilize the arm so the collarbone doesn't hurt.

They'll Check Your Baby's Head

A pediatrician will also palm your baby's head to check for a still-soft fontanel. They will do this at every well visit for the first one to two years.

Your baby's head should grow about 4 inches in the first year, and the two soft spots on their skull are designed to accommodate that rapid growth. But if the soft spots close up too quickly, it can lead to a condition called craniosynostosis, which is when the tight quarters can curb brain development, and your child may need surgery to fix it.

They'll Check Your Baby's Hips

The doctor will roll your baby's hips to check for signs of developmental hip dysplasia, a congenital malformation of the hip joint that affects 1 in every 1,000 babies. You can expect this exam starting at your baby's first pediatrician visit and every visit until your baby can walk.

"The exam looks completely barbaric," says Vinita Seru, MD , a pediatrician in Seattle. "I tell families what I'm doing so they don't think I'm trying to hurt the baby."

If your pediatrician feels a telltale click from the hips, they'll order an ultrasound. Luckily, when dysplasia is found early, treatment is simple: The baby wears a pelvic harness for a few months.

They'll Check Your Baby's Reflexes

To check for a Moro reflex, a health care provider startles your baby. For the first 3 or 4 months, whenever something startles your infant, they'll fling their arms out as if they're falling. It's an involuntary response that shows your baby is developing normally.

This exam starts at the first pediatrician visit and continues through the first four well-child visits. A health care provider might also check whether your little one grasps a finger or fans their toes after you touch their foot.

They'll Check Your Baby's Pulse

By pressing the skin along the side of the baby's groin, a health care provider checks for your baby's pulse in the femoral artery, which runs up from your baby's thigh. Your pediatrician wants to see if the pulse is weak or hard to detect on one or both sides as that may suggest a heart condition.

You can expect this exam at the first pediatrician visit and all baby well visits. Around 1 in 125 babies are diagnosed with a heart defect every year in the US. This check is a simple way to screen for problems, says Dr. Seru: "When a heart condition is caught early, it can increase the likelihood of a good recovery."

They'll Check Your Baby's Genitalia

Starting at the first pediatrician visit and every well-baby visit after that, a health care provider will check your baby's genitals to ensure everything looks normal.

In about 1 to 3% of babies with testicles, the testicles don't descend into the scrotum before birth. While the problem usually corrects itself by 3 to 4 months of age, your doctor will keep an eye on things to see if your baby needs surgical assistance in the future. They will also check for signs of infection if your baby has been circumcised .

In babies with vulvas, it's not uncommon to find labial adhesions. Although the labia should open up over time, adhesions can shrink the vaginal opening and make your baby more prone to urinary tract infections (UTIs) . "If we know that they're there when your baby has a high fever, we look for a UTI first," says Melissa Kendall, MD , a pediatrician in Orem, Utah.

They'll Ask About Your Baby’s Feeding Patterns

The doctor will want information about your baby's feeding patterns. You don't need to keep super-detailed records, but you should have a general idea of the following:

• How often your baby is eating
• How long they feed (if nursing)
• How much they consume (if bottle-feeding)

This is an excellent time to raise concerns or questions about latching, formula brands, and other feeding issues.

They'll Check Your Baby’s Digestive System

You should have a general idea of how often you change your baby's diapers each day. If your doctor knows the consistency, frequency, and color of your baby's poop , they can better assess their digestive system and nutrient absorption.

They'll Ask About Your Baby's Sleeping Patterns

A health care provider will also probably inquire about sleeping patterns at your first pediatrician visit. They'll also make sure you're following safe sleep practices to help reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

They'll Review the Childhood Vaccination Schedule

Hospitals usually give babies their first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine shortly after birth, but if your baby was born at home or at a birth center, they might receive it at their first pediatrician visit.

Most vaccinations start when your baby is 2 months old, and a health care provider might review the vaccine schedule with you so you're prepared for the many vaccines your baby will receive in the months ahead.

There Will Be Time for Questions

You will cover a lot of ground during your baby's first pediatrician visit. Ask the doctor to slow down, repeat, or clarify information if needed. It's also wise to come prepared with any questions you have.

Here are some examples:

• Is this behavior normal?
• Is my baby eating enough?
• Should their stool look like that?
• When should I schedule the next appointment?
• What should I expect in the next few days and weeks?

When you have a written list of talking points, you won't worry about your mind going blank if your baby starts to fuss, says Dr. Pohlod.

You'll Schedule Your Next Appointment

The lineup of well-baby checkups during the first year includes at least a half dozen more pediatrician visits.

Recommended Baby Checkup Schedule

Here is a quick-glance list of what ages the AAP recommends that your child be seen for well-child pediatrician visits through their second year:

• 3 to 5 days old
• 1 month old
• 2 months old
• 4 months old
• 6 months old
• 9 months old
• 12 months old
• 15 months old
• 18 months old
• 24 months old

At first glance, the recommended number of checkups may seem like a lot. But trust the process: This schedule was designed to closely monitor your baby's growth and development to ensure their health and well-being.

The checkups, depending on the age of your baby, will include measurements, sensory screening, and developmental health, which include social, behavioral, and mental health. It will also include vaccinations, oral health, and advice for parents and caregivers.

Frequent appointments with your baby's health care provider are also the best way to get personalized expert answers to your questions about your baby. Ultimately, it's important to be comfortable with your doctor, and seeing them frequently in the first year helps you develop a relationship you may have for years to come.

When you schedule your next appointment, ask about the office's hours of operation, billing policies, and how after-hours communication works. Keep the doctor's phone number handy, and be informed of what to do and who to contact in an emergency or when you have a question.

Tips for Your Baby's First Pediatrician Visit

Leaving the house with a newborn isn't easy, and it can be especially stressful when you're on a timetable (like when you're trying to make it to a scheduled appointment). But your baby's first pediatrician visit doesn't have to be super stressful. Here are some tips for smooth sailing:

• Plan your time. Ask for an appointment during the least busy part of the day. You can also see if a health care provider has specific time slots dedicated to seeing newborns. Expect the visit to take about 25 minutes, but plan for waiting and setbacks as well.
• Bring a support person. Consider bringing your partner or another caregiver to your baby's first doctor appointment. Two people can more effectively care for the baby, remember the doctor's advice, and recall questions you plan to ask.
• Dress your baby with the exam in mind. Since the doctor will examine your baby's entire body, dress them in easy-on, easy-off clothing or even just a diaper and comfortable blanket if weather permits.
• Be prepared, but pack light. Definitely bring a change of clothes, extra diapers, wipes, pacifiers, feeding supplies, and other necessities, but try not to overpack. Ultimately, "warmth, cuddling, loving, and reassuring voices are more helpful than a stuffed animal" at a newborn exam, says Brian MacGillivray, MD, a family medicine specialist in San Antonio.
• Wait in the car, if you can. If you attend the appointment with another person, send them inside to fill out paperwork while you wait in the car with the baby. This limits your newborn's exposure to germs. Some offices even have systems in place that allow you to fill out the paperwork online, wait in your car, and receive a call or text when it's time to go in.
• Keep your distance from others. If you must sit in the waiting room, have your baby face the corner. According to  Mary Ellen Renna, MD , a pediatrician from Jericho, New York, the chances of catching sickness are lower if you maintain a 3-foot radius from others.

AAP Schedule of Well-Child Care Visits . American Academy of Pediatrics . 2023.

Weight Loss . The American Academy of Pediatrics . 2020.

Clavicular Fractures in Newborns: What Happens to One of the Commonly Injured Bones at Birth? . Cureus . 2021.

Facts About Craniosynostosis . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . 2023.

Developmental Dislocation (Dysplasia) Of the Hip (DDH) . American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons . 2022.

Moro Reflex . StatPearls . 2023.

A five (5) chamber heart (Cor Triatriatum) in Infancy: A rare congenital heart defect .  Niger Med J . 2013.

Undescended Testicles: What Parents Need To Know . American Academy of Pediatrics . 2022.

Periodicity Schedule . American Academy of Pediatrics . 2023.

Related Articles

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

You may also be interested in:

Protect Yourself from Seasonal Flu

Get Your Child’s Vision Checked

Healthy Snacks: Quick Tips for Parents

The office of disease prevention and health promotion (odphp) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website..

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.

You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.

• Getting Pregnant
• Registry Builder
• Baby Products
• Birth Clubs
• See all in Community
• Ovulation Calculator
• How To Get Pregnant
• How To Get Pregnant Fast
• Ovulation Discharge
• Implantation Bleeding
• Ovulation Symptoms
• Pregnancy Symptoms
• Am I Pregnant?
• Pregnancy Tests
• See all in Getting Pregnant
• Due Date Calculator
• Pregnancy Week by Week
• Pregnant Sex
• Weight Gain Tracker
• Signs of Labor
• Morning Sickness
• COVID Vaccine and Pregnancy
• Fetal Weight Chart
• Fetal Development
• Pregnancy Discharge
• Find Out Baby Gender
• Chinese Gender Predictor
• See all in Pregnancy
• Baby Name Generator
• Top Baby Names 2023
• Top Baby Names 2024
• How to Pick a Baby Name
• Most Popular Baby Names
• Baby Names by Letter
• Gender Neutral Names
• Unique Boy Names
• Unique Girl Names
• Top baby names by year
• See all in Baby Names
• Baby Development
• Baby Feeding Guide
• Newborn Sleep
• When Babies Roll Over
• First-Year Baby Costs Calculator
• Postpartum Health
• Baby Poop Chart
• See all in Baby
• Average Weight & Height
• Autism Signs
• Child Growth Chart
• Night Terrors
• Moving from Crib to Bed
• Toddler Feeding Guide
• Potty Training
• Bathing and Grooming
• See all in Toddler
• Height Predictor
• Potty Training: Boys
• Potty training: Girls
• How Much Sleep? (Ages 3+)
• Ready for Preschool?
• Thumb-Sucking
• Gross Motor Skills
• Napping (Ages 2 to 3)
• See all in Child
• Photos: Rashes & Skin Conditions
• Symptom Checker
• Vaccine Scheduler
• Reducing a Fever
• Acetaminophen Dosage Chart
• Constipation in Babies
• Ear Infection Symptoms
• Head Lice 101
• See all in Health
• Second Pregnancy
• Daycare Costs
• Family Finance
• Stay-At-Home Parents
• Breastfeeding Positions
• See all in Family
• Baby Sleep Training
• Preparing For Baby
• My Custom Checklist
• My Registries
• Take the Quiz
• Best Baby Products
• Best Breast Pump
• Best Convertible Car Seat
• Best Infant Car Seat
• Best Baby Bottle
• Best Baby Monitor
• Best Stroller
• Best Diapers
• Best Baby Carrier
• Best Diaper Bag
• Best Highchair
• See all in Baby Products
• Why Pregnant Belly Feels Tight
• Early Signs of Twins
• Teas During Pregnancy
• Baby Head Circumference Chart
• How Many Months Pregnant Am I
• What is a Rainbow Baby
• Braxton Hicks Contractions
• HCG Levels By Week
• When to Take a Pregnancy Test
• Am I Pregnant
• Why is Poop Green
• Can Pregnant Women Eat Shrimp
• Insemination
• UTI During Pregnancy
• Vitamin D Drops
• Best Baby Forumla
• Postpartum Depression
• Low Progesterone During Pregnancy
• Baby Shower
• Baby Shower Games

Doctor visit: The 18-month checkup

You can expect your child's doctor to:

• Weigh and measure your child to make sure he's growing at a healthy rate .
• Check her heart and breathing.
• Check his eyes and ears .
• Measure your toddler's head size to keep track of her brain growth.
• Give your child another round of immunizations (including DTaP , hep A , and any others he missed at previous appointments).
• Address any concerns about your child's health, including how to spot symptoms of ear infections , colds , and the flu .
• Answer any questions you may have about toilet training or discipline.
• Offer insight into your toddler's development , temperament, and behavior.
• Screen for anemia and lead poisoning with a blood test if your child has any risk factors.

Questions the doctor may ask:

• How is your child sleeping? Most toddlers this age sleep about 11 hours at night and nap for about two hours during the day. Bedtime is usually a battle, though, since children this age prefer being active and on the go. Your child may also fight sleep because she's afraid of the dark and of being alone.
• How is your child eating? The doctor will ask this question to find out whether your child is getting a balanced and varied diet. He may suggest some healthy snacks to serve or ways to get your busy child to sit long enough to eat, since most 18-month-olds resent being buckled into a highchair for mealtimes.
• Is your child showing any signs of toilet training readiness? Many toddlers develop the physical and cognitive skills necessary for toilet training , such as being able to pull their pants up and down easily, between 18 and 24 months of age, but some aren't ready to start until they're as old as 4.
• Is your child walking? By now, your toddler should have taken her first steps. Children learn to walk between 9 and 18 months. If she's walking on her toes or lists to one side, mention this to the doctor so he can evaluate her motor skills .
• Has he been saying "no" a lot or throwing temper tantrums? Most 18-month-olds have discovered the joy of saying "no," and they like wielding this powerful word. It's a sign of independence and language development .
• Is your child talking a lot? By this time, most toddlers know and use at least six words – "mama" or "dada" among them. A few tots can even string two words together to form a basic sentence, such as "Mama go" or "Carry me." The doctor can also give you tips on how to encourage your child's language development.
• Does she respond to simple commands? Eighteen-month-olds are usually mature enough to understand and follow simple directions such as "Please pass me the ball" or "Bring me your shoes," so if she doesn't follow basic commands , or doesn't appear to hear you, tell the doctor.
• What games does he like to play? The activities your child enjoys give the doctor insight into how he's developing. Many toddlers this age love peekaboo, a sign that they're developing mental skills, and playing with balls, which helps them become better coordinated.
• Do you clean her teeth and gums? Your child may still be waiting for her molars to come in, but as soon as she has any teeth, good oral hygiene becomes important. Your doctor may also recommend fluoride drops. If he doesn't bring them up, ask about them.
• Have you noticed anything unusual about your toddler's eyes or the way he looks at things? Learn more about eye examinations and how to spot potential problems.

What's next?

• Find out what's in store for you at the two-year doctor visit .

Was this article helpful?

When can my child sleep with a pillow?

TV-watching guidelines for toddlers

Your 17-month-old's language and cognitive development: All talk

Your 17-month-old's social and emotional development: Feeling negative

Linda J. Murray is the former senior vice president of consumer experience and global editor in chief of BabyCenter, the world's number one parenting and pregnancy digital resource. Murray is a passionate advocate for maternal health issues. She's an adviser and former board chair of the Preeclampsia Foundation, and has served on the advisory council for the Heart Health for Moms study led by Brigham and Women's Hospital.

Where to go next

The 12-Month Well-Baby Visit

Medical review policy, latest update:, the physical checkup, developmental milestones, read this next, 12-month vaccines, questions to ask your doctor, recognizing the signs of a delay.

And before you leave, don't forget to get the next appointment scheduled, which will be the 15-month checkup .

What to Expect the First Year , 3rd edition, Heidi Murkoff. WhatToExpect.com, Your Guide to Well-Baby Visits , March 2020. WhatToExpect.com, What Order and When Do Baby Teeth Appear? This Baby Teething Chart Can Help , February 2021. WhatToExpect.com, Your Baby's Vaccine Schedule: What Shots Should Your Child Get When? , January 2021. American Academy of Pediatrics, AAP Schedule of Well-Child Care Visits , September 2021. American Academy of Pediatrics, Assessing Developmental Delays , February 2019. American Academy of Pediatrics, Language Delays in Toddlers: Information for Parents , April 2021. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Recommended Vaccines by Age , November 2016. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Important Milestones: Your Child by One Year , August 2021. KidsHealth From Nemours, Your Child’s Checkup: 1 Year (12 Months) , April 2021. Mayo Clinic, Language Development: Speech Milestones for Babies , March 2021.

Go to Your Baby's Age

Trending on what to expect, the covid-19 vaccine for infants, toddlers and young children, how to create a night shift system when you have a newborn, ⚠️ you can't see this cool content because you have ad block enabled., when do babies start laughing, baby-led weaning, what happens in the ‘4th trimester’ (and is it a real thing).