What to Expect At This Visit:
At this visit, your child will receive the following immunizations:
DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis), IPV (Inactivated Polio), Hep B (Hepatitis B), PCV (Pneumococcal Vaccine), Hib (Hemophilus Influenzae B), & Rotavirus vaccine.
The New Vaccine Schedule. More vaccine information.
Development:
Note: Please know that the development of each child is unique and special. The following information on development is general and meant for informational purposes only. If you are concerned about the development of your child, please let your pediatrician know.
*At 4 months, your baby will begin to lift their head and prop their upper body up wit their arms. They will also start cooing more, making sounds like "ah" and "go."
*Baby walkers are not recommended as they can actually slow your baby's motor skills.
*As your child begins to teethe, you may notice that your child becomes very fussy and irritable. You may also notice your child drooling. Use a cool teething ring to help relieve your child's pain.
Click Here for information from the American Academy of Pediatrics on developmental milestones typically seen at 4 months of age.
Daily Life:
Feeding:
*At 4-6 months, you will start to add "solid foods," or complimentary foods to your child's diet. One way to determine if your child is ready to eat foods is the disappearance of the Tongue Thrust Reflex. This reflex refers to your child pushing his/her tongue out when a nipple is placed in their mouth. The disappearance of this reflex signals that they are ready for solid foods. The first food that should be added to their diet is iron-fortified cereal. After cereal, the next food that should be added is meat. Meat is rich in iron, zinc, and protein. There is no special requirement, use the meat you have made for the family's dinner and blend some into a puree.
*When adding new foods to your baby's diet, add a new food every 5-7 days. This will help identify any food allergies, should they appear.
*Do not feel discouraged if your baby refuses a new food. It may take 10-15 tries before your baby takes and likes a new food.
Sleeping:
*Place your child on their back when sleeping to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). A simple way to remember this is that you are putting your child "back to sleep." Never let your baby sleep in your bed. Additionally, it is not recommended that your baby sleep with any blankets in their crib. This prevents the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
Fun & Play:
*At four months, you will start to see your child's personality blossom. A baby's favorite activity is playing with his/her parents. Use a variety of play: singing songs, reading books, and playing with age-appropriate toys. Continue to encourage Tummy Time.
*At this age your child cannot be spoiled. Feel free to help calm your baby when she/he is upset.
Safety:
*Never leave your child alone while bathing, even for a second. A child can drown in as little as 2 inches of water. Set your water heater thermostat to less than 120 degrees. This helps prevent scalding water and burns.
Health:
Parents & Family:
Useful Resources & Links:
TIPP (The Injury Prevention Program) safety sheet for 0-6 months
American Academy of Pediatrics' Information on Infant Car Seats
Healthy Children
Baby Safety up to One Year of Age