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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.

How can you care for your child age 4 months?

  • Feeding your baby

    • If you breastfeed, continue for as long as it works for you and your baby.
    • If you formula-feed, use a formula with iron. Ask your doctor how much formula to give your baby.
    • Feed your baby whenever they're hungry.
    • Never give your baby honey in the first year of life.
    • 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

    • Clean your baby's gums every day with a soft cloth.
    • If your baby is teething, give them a cooled teething ring to chew on.
    • When the first teeth come in, brush them twice a day with a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste.

  • Keeping your baby safe while they sleep

    • Always put your baby to sleep on their back.
    • Don't put sleep positioners, bumper pads, loose bedding, or stuffed animals in the crib.
    • Don't sleep with your baby. This includes in your bed or on a couch or chair.
    • Have your baby sleep in the same room as you for at least the first 6 months.
    • 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 contact 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.

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