Regular checkups or well-baby visits with a pediatrician will give parents the opportunity to discuss developmental questions and concerns with a knowledgeable professional. If you did not choose a pediatrician prior to your baby's birth, it is important to establish that relationship before you take your baby home from the hospital.

Well-Baby Visit Timing

Your pediatrician will outline the timeline for your child's well-baby visits. According to the March of Dimes, parents can expect the visits to be at approximately the following ages:

• One to two weeks after birth

• Two months

• Four months

• Six months

• Nine months

• Twelve months

• Fifteen months

• Eighteen months

• Twenty-four months

Do not be alarmed if your pediatrician follows a slightly different schedule. The important thing is to find a pediatrician and adhere to his guidelines.

Well-Baby Visit Objectives

Pediatricians have certain objectives for well-baby visits. According to the March of Dimes these include:

• Charting growth

• Physical examination

• General development

• Nutrition

• General discussions

• Tests

• Immunizations

As important as the other objectives is the discussion with parents. This is the time to ask questions and discuss your concerns.

Well-Baby Visits for Infants with Special Needs

Some babies are known to have extreme or complicated needs from the start. A general pediatrician may feel confident assuming care of the baby, while specialists address more specific health needs. Perhaps a child with club feet would be seen by a general pediatrician as well as an orthopedic doctor. If the doctor does not feel confident treating your child, contact the nearest children's hospital for a referral to a pediatrician who specializes in treating babies with special needs.