Child's Well Visit, 4 Months: Care Instructions
By now you may be seeing new sides to your baby's behavior. Your baby may show anger, joy, fear, and
surprise. And they may be able to roll over and hold on to toys. At this age many babies can sleep up to 7 or
8 hours during the night and develop set nap times.
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Read books to your baby daily. And give your baby brightly colored toys to hold and look at.
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Put your baby on their stomach when they're awake. This can help strengthen the neck, back, and arms.
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Feeding your baby
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If you breastfeed, continue for as long as it works for you and your baby.
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If you formula-feed, use a formula with iron. Ask your doctor how much formula to give your baby.
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Feed your baby whenever they're hungry.
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Never give your baby honey in the first year of life.
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You may start to give solid foods when your baby is about 6 months old. Ask your doctor when your baby
will be ready.
Caring for your baby's gums and teeth
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Clean your baby's gums every day with a soft cloth.
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If your baby is teething, give them a cooled teething ring to chew on.
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When the first teeth come in, brush them with a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste.
Keeping your baby safe while they sleep
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Always put your baby to sleep on their back.
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Don't put sleep positioners, bumper pads, loose bedding, or stuffed animals in the crib.
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Don't sleep with your baby. This includes in your bed or on a couch or chair.
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Have your baby sleep in the same room as you for at least the first 6 months.
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Don't place your baby in a car seat, sling, swing, bouncer, or stroller to sleep.
Getting vaccines
Make sure your baby gets all the recommended vaccines.
Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all
appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your
child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.
Current as of: October 24, 2023
Content Version: 14.0
Care instructions adapted under license by your
healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask
your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of
this information.