Immunizations and checkups
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) believes that the benefits of immunizations far outweigh the risks incurred by childhood diseases, as well as any risks of the vaccines themselves. One of your most important roles as a parent is to make sure your baby is immunized. Timely immunizations protect your baby against many dangerous childhood diseases. Your pediatrician will advise you when to schedule appointments for your baby’s vaccinations.
Immunization schedules are updated regularly by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and are available at cdc.gov.
Regular checkups
Regular visits to your baby’s physician are important. Although your baby’s first checkup occurs soon after birth, two to three more checkups may be scheduled in her first few months. Additional visits might be advised if your baby has special health or developmental needs.
At each checkup, the physician assesses your baby’s growth and development and performs a physical exam. Regular checkups help identify any concerns early so treatment can start promptly. These visits are a good time to discuss any questions you may have with your baby’s physician.
As your baby grows, her physician records her height, weight, and head circumference on a growth chart. Typically, babies double their birth weight by 6 months and triple it by about 1 year. How your baby progresses on her growth chart is one of the most important indicators of good nutrition and health. Ask to see her growth chart at each visit. Click here for a tool to help you track your baby’s growth.
Products
NESTLÉ® GOOD START® Protect PLUS® Formula
Contains BIFIDUS BL™—beneficial cultures like those found in breastmilk to help support your baby’s healthy immune system.
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