Health & Development

Comprehensive guide to tracking your baby's health, developmental milestones, vaccinations, and recognizing when to seek medical attention.

Table of Contents

1

Developmental Milestones

Developmental milestones are behaviors or physical skills seen in infants and children as they grow. Tracking these milestones helps ensure your baby is developing normally and can identify any areas that may need attention.

0-1 Month

  • • Lifts head briefly
  • • Responds to sounds
  • • Focuses on faces
  • • First social smiles

1-2 Months

  • • Social smiles
  • • Coos and gurgles
  • • Tracks objects
  • • Holds head up

2-3 Months

  • • Laughs and squeals
  • • Reaches for objects
  • • Rolls from tummy to back
  • • Recognizes familiar faces

Remember

Every baby develops at their own pace. These are guidelines, not strict deadlines. Consult your pediatrician if you have concerns.

2

Health Monitoring

Regular monitoring of your baby's health helps catch potential issues early. Know what to watch for and when to take action.

Daily Checks

  • • Temperature (normal: 97-100.4°F)
  • • Feeding patterns
  • • Diaper output
  • • Sleep patterns
  • • General alertness

Weekly Observations

  • • Weight gain trends
  • • Developmental progress
  • • Skin condition
  • • Eye contact and responsiveness
3

Vaccination Schedule

Vaccinations protect your baby from serious diseases. Following the recommended schedule ensures your baby is protected at the right times.

First Year Vaccinations

Birth Hepatitis B (1st dose)
2 Months DTaP, Hib, PCV13, Polio, Rotavirus
4 Months DTaP, Hib, PCV13, Polio, Rotavirus
6 Months DTaP, Hib, PCV13, Polio, Rotavirus, Flu

Note: Schedule may vary. Always follow your pediatrician's recommendations.

4

Common Health Conditions

Jaundice

Yellowing of skin and eyes, common in newborns. Usually resolves on its own but may need treatment.

When to worry: If yellowing spreads or baby seems lethargic.

Diaper Rash

Red, irritated skin in diaper area. Keep area clean and dry, use barrier creams.

When to worry: If rash doesn't improve or spreads.

Cradle Cap

Scaly, crusty patches on scalp. Harmless, usually clears by 6-12 months.

Treatment: Gentle shampooing, soft brush, or baby oil.

5

When to Call the Doctor

Call Immediately If:

  • • Fever above 100.4°F (38°C) in babies under 3 months
  • • Difficulty breathing or blue lips
  • • Unusual lethargy or difficult to wake
  • • Persistent vomiting or refusal to feed
  • • Signs of dehydration (few wet diapers, dry mouth)
  • • Severe rash or skin changes

Call Within 24 Hours If:

  • • Mild fever in older babies
  • • Persistent crying or irritability
  • • Changes in feeding patterns
  • • Concerns about development
6

Growth & Weight Tracking

Regular weight and growth measurements help ensure your baby is developing properly. Your pediatrician will track these at well-baby visits.

Typical Growth Patterns

Weight: Most babies lose 5-10% of birth weight in first week, then gain 5-7 oz per week for first month
Length: Grows about 1 inch per month in first 6 months
Head Circumference: Grows about 0.5 inches per month
7

Well-Baby Visits

Regular well-baby visits are essential for monitoring your baby's health and development. These visits allow your pediatrician to track growth, provide vaccinations, and address any concerns.

Typical Schedule

3-5 days First checkup after hospital discharge
1 month Health check and development assessment
2, 4, 6 months Vaccinations and growth tracking
9, 12 months Development milestones and vaccinations

Important Reminders

  • Always consult your pediatrician for health concerns. This information is educational and not a substitute for medical advice.
  • Trust your instincts as a parent. If something doesn't seem right, don't hesitate to seek medical attention.