In your baby’s first year, you’ll have a lot of questions—and a lot of doctor’s appointments. These visits, called well-baby checkups, are the best way to track your baby’s growth, catch any concerns early and get expert advice for every stage.

Babies' Checkups

What Happens at a Well-Baby Visit

If your baby has any health conditions or sees specialists, the checkup is a great opportunity to update their primary care provider and make sure everyone is on the same page.

At each visit, your baby’s doctor or nurse will:

Measure your baby’s height, weight and head size.
Check how your baby is growing, moving and interacting.
Ask how you and your baby are doing at home.
Answer your questions about sleep, feeding, development or anything on your mind.
Give vaccines or screenings if needed.
Check your baby’s hearing, vision and even their first little teeth!

Baby’s First-Year Checkup Schedule

Schedules can vary, but here are recommended well-baby checks and procedures.

Birth to 5 days old: Vision, hearing and blood tests; First vaccine
By 1 month: May get a vaccine
2 months: Vaccines
4 months: Vaccines
6 months: Vaccines
9 months: May get vaccines
12 months: Blood test for anemia
15 months: May get vaccines
18 months: May get vaccines
24 months: May get vaccines

Have Questions About Vaccines?

So, the question “why immunize?” is a good one to ask. Vaccines are one of our most effective tools for preventing infectious diseases.

Learn More About Vaccines

Tips for a Better Checkup

Write down questions ahead of time—no question is too small.
Bring a list of any medications your baby is currently taking.
Keep your baby’s vaccine card and bring it to every visit.
Try to see the same doctor each time, so they get to know your baby (and you).
If your baby has been to the hospital or seen a specialist, make sure to tell the pediatrician.
If you need more time to talk, let the doctor’s office know in advance.

Look for well-child care programs near you

Baby Health Basics: What to Watch For

Babies can’t tell you when something’s wrong—but they can show you.

Here are some signs your baby might be sick:
Loss of appetite, vomiting or diarrhea
Pale skin or dark circles under the eyes
Fussiness or trouble sleeping
Fever over 100.4°F (especially if under 3 months)
Crying or pain that doesn’t stop

Call 911 if your baby:

Is breathing fast or grunting
Has blue lips or seems limp
Has a seizure or can’t wake up

Hearing & Vision: Catching Problems Early

You know your baby best. If something seems off, trust your gut. Look out for:

No reaction to loud sounds (after 2–3 months)
Not turning to your voice by 6 months
Eyes that cross or don’t follow movement after 4 months

Ask your provider for a screening at any checkup. Insurance (including Medicaid and KidsCare) usually covers hearing and vision screenings. Or, check out Eyes on Learning or InfantSEE for free or low-cost screenings.

What About Ear Infections

If your baby is tugging on their ear, crying more than usual or has a fever, they might have an ear infection. Call your doctor to have it checked out, especially if it doesn’t improve within a day or two.

Infant Health & Pediatrician Visits