Nutrition
Feedings
Both human milk and formula continue to supply all the nutrients and fluids necessary at this age. Delay giving solid foods until your baby is four to six months of age; do not put cereal in your baby's bottle. Early introduction of solids may lead to obesity, high blood pressure, allergies, excess salt intake and digestive problems. Formula with iron is always recommended. Remember, your baby should be consuming two to two and one-half ounces of formula or human milk per pound of body weight per day.
Vitamins
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends supplementing exclusively breastfed babies and those who are formula fed (but get less than 32 oz. per day) with vitamin D 400 IU once a day. One such supplement, D-vi-Sol, can be purchased over the counter. Check the package of the product you buy for dosing instructions.
Development
At this age your baby should:
- Focus both eyes on your face and on some objects
- Follow objects visually to midline
- Smile responsively and begin to laugh, squeal and coo
- Hold head a little more steady and lift head while on tummy
Vaccinations
At this visit, your child is scheduled to receive the DTaP, Hib, IPV, Hepatitis B, Pneumococcal Conjugate, and Rotavirus vaccines
Common Issues And Concerns
Medications
To see information on Acetaminophen (Infant Tylenol) dosage, click here. Remember to always dose based on the weight of your child.
Sleep
(Helpful hints for preventing problems)
- Infants should always sleep on their backs to decrease the chance of SIDS.
- Infants should not sleep in their parent's bed.
- Don't allow your baby to hold his bottle or take it to bed.
- Most babies do not begin sleeping through the night (6 to 8 hours) without waking until at least 3 months of age, or until they weigh 12 to 13 pounds.
Fever
Check your child's temperature if he feels warm or is acting ill. If your child is acting ill or you have concerns, contact your physician. A fever is a temperature of 100.4 or higher, taken rectally. Remember, a fever is a common side effect of the immunizations given at two months. There is no need to contact your physician when fever is associated with immunizations, unless your child appears ill. Fevers due to vaccines last 24-48 hours. If it is lasting longer than that your baby should be seen.
Rashes
Babies have sensitive skin and frequently develop transient rashes.
Stooling
Bowel movements are highly variable in frequency, amount, color and consistency. Each baby is different.
Eye Drainage
Blocked tear ducts are a common occurrence and may cause a thin mucous eye discharge. If the whites of the eye appear red, contact your physician.
Recommendations
- Remember to use a car seat at all times.
- Do not leave your baby unattended.
- Stimulate your baby with talk and touch.
- You can talk, sing, read to your baby, or play music - he will enjoy it
Depression During and After Pregnancy
Depression during and after pregnancy is common and treatable. Having a baby is challenging and every woman deserves support. We will screen for caregiver depression at your child's well-child visits through the first year. Talk to your child's healthcare provider or your healthcare provider if you are experiencing symptoms. Please review this information from the CDC regarding postpartum depression. There are also resources available. Contact the Postpartum Support International Warmline and a trained helpline volunteer will call/text you back to identify a local coordinator and resources in your area:
- Call 1-800-944-4773, #1 en Espanol or #2 English
- Text 503-894-9453
Next Well Child Visit
Your child's next well child visit will be at four months age.
