Baby’s first check-up will probably be the first time you and he meet the paediatrician. Relax and treat the paediatrician as a friend who will be helping you to take care of baby’s health throughout his childhood.

The doctor will measure baby’s weight and length (see below) and ask you some questions about baby’s behaviour and health. Answer them honestly and voice your concerns and doubts if you have any. Asking questions doesn’t mean you’re stupid or a bad parent!

What happens at baby's check-ups?

     1) The doctor will take baby’s weight, body length and head circumference measurements – These three measurements combined provide a full picture of whether baby is growing within the normal range. Because the range is quite wide, you shouldn’t worry if baby seems too light or small for his age. If your doctor says he’s healthy and growing well, he probably is.

    2) The doctor will ask you about baby’s health and behaviour

    3) As baby gets older, the simple tests the doctor conducts to check his development will change. Don’t be alarmed if he isn’t able to do some of the things the doctor tries to get him to do. Children grow at their own pace, and your child may achieve some developmental milestones more quickly or slowly than other children his age.