What to ask at my first well-child visit?
Your first well-child visit will be carried out soon after birth to ensure baby’s development is on track. Read our list of questions on everything from your baby weight check to baby vaccinations, so you can be prepared when you see your healthcare provider.
- Schedule your first appointment with your doctor soon after your baby is born. It should happen within the first week of going home from the hospital.
- The doctor or nurse will weigh your baby and measure their length and head circumference. Ask if baby’s weight check is within the normal range.
- Ask what baby vaccinations are needed and when. Your doctor may have a copy of your provinces vaccination schedule for you to take home.
- Ask if your baby’s sleeping patterns are as expected. Share how your family is adjusting to having a new baby at home.
- Ask about safe sleeping and about reducing the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
- Ask about breastfeeding and bottle-feeding, and where you can get support if you have any concerns.
- Many or all of the newborn screening tests will be done while you are still in the hospital. Check with your doctor that they were all completed.
- Ask how you can safely bathe your baby and how often. You can also read our checklist on how to bathe a newborn.
- Ask how you safely trim baby’s nails.
Sources
Canadian Paediatric Society. Schedule of well-child visits. https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/pregnancy-and-babies/schedule_of_well_child_visits Accessed September 2020.
Related articles
Why do babies cry?
When you’re a new parent your baby’s cries can be overwhelming. Remember it’s a new world outside the womb and your little one is adjusting to his new surroundings.
2 mins to read
Overcoming breastfeeding problems
Breastfeeding doesn’t always come naturally but with a bit of practice, perseverance, and a few pointers, it can get easier. Try these steps to help tackle breastfeeding problems.
2 mins to read
Kangaroo care: How to take care of your preterm baby
What is kangaroo care and how can it help you to take care of your preterm baby?
6 mins to read
Bottle-feeding tips
Bottle-feeding might look easy but there’s a fair bit to swallow. So here’s a list of bottle-feeding tips, covering bottle-feeding positions, setting a bottle-feeding routine, and more.
2 mins to read
Bath time checklist: How to bathe a newborn
Washing a newborn for the first time can be nerve-racking as well as a lovely bonding moment. Follow our tips on how to bathe a newborn safely.
3 mins to read
How to emotionally prepare for parenthood before becoming a mom
Amazing news! You’re expecting your first baby. But what can you do to emotionally prepare for parenthood?
3 mins to read
How to Bathe Your Baby
Baby’s first bath will be a new experience for both of you, so give yourself plenty of time to relax and enjoy it.
3 mins to read
How to give a baby massage
Baby massages are a great opportunity for interacting with your baby and for skin-to-skin contact. Find out what to do with this baby tummy massage breakdown.
2 mins to read
How to be a confident parent: start today with six easy steps
Becoming a new parent and bringing your newborn home, can be a daunting experience to navigate.
3 mins to read
Baby digestion development | First days
By Dr. Dina Kulik, pediatrician
3 mins to read
How to help baby reflux
Baby reflux. It’s one of the most common symptoms in babies in their first year. Here are some baby reflux remedies to help prevent and ease the symptoms.
2 mins to read
Bathing hacks: How to give your newborn a sponge bath
Don’t worry about giving baby a bath in the first few weeks.
3 mins to read
10 money-saving tips for having a baby on a budget
Working out how much to save for a baby can be a daunting task.
4 mins to read
How to put baby to sleep?
Babies love to sleep, eat, repeat. Right? Except the sleep bit can sometimes take work.
3 mins to read
Fed up with mom guilt? Here’s how to banish unhelpful thoughts
Tired of battling mom guilt? It’s entirely normal, but pretty unhelpful if you’re navigating many other new mom emotions.
2 mins to read
Playtime ideas for your 0-4 month old
Make the most of your time at home with these five tummy-time moves to get your little one active and help you bond with each other.
3 mins to read
Baby Teething Tips
Teething can be a distressing time for your baby and for you too. We’ve put together an action plan of teething tips, so you can all get through it without gritting your teeth.
2 mins to read
What’s a healthy breastfeeding diet?
If you’re breastfeeding, a healthy diet is important as it can affect your baby as much as you. Get tips on what not to eat when breastfeeding and what to eat when breastfeeding.
2 mins to read
Lonely mom? 10 things to do with baby—that give something back to you
Even with a wealth of online parenting forums and a baby in your arms, it’s easy to feel isolated and lonely as a mom.
4 mins to read
Related tools
Article finder
Expert articles and tips about development, parenting support, and nutrition
Product finder
Find Nestlé Nutrition Products right for you and your baby
Checklists finder tool
Checklists and tips to help along your parenting journey
Recipe Finder
Find recipes for you and your little one.
