2 Month Old Well Child Check

Nutrition

FEEDINGS

Both human milk and formula continue to supply all the nutrients and fluids necessary at this age. Delay giving solid foods until your baby is four to six months of age; do not put cereal in your baby's bottle. Early introduction of solids may lead to obesity, high blood pressure, allergies, excess salt intake and digestive problems. Formula with iron is always recommended. Remember, your baby should be consuming two to two and one-half ounces of formula or human milk per pound of body weight per day.

VITAMINS

The American Acamdemy of Pediatrics recommends supplementing exclusively breastfed babies with vitamin D. One such supplement, Poly-vi-sol, can be purchased over the counter; give one dropperful daily. Nursing mothers should continue their prenatal vitamins. Formula fed infants receive adequate vitamin supplements from commercially prepared formula.

Development

At this age your baby should:

Focus both eyes on your face and on some objects
Follow objects visually to midline
Smile responsively and begin to laugh and squeal and coo
Hold head a little more steady and lift head while on tummy

Vaccinations

At this visit, your child is scheduled to receive the DTaP, Hib, IPV, Hepatitis B, Pneumococcal Conjugate, and Rotavirus immunizations.

Common Issues and Concerns

MEDICATIONS

To see information on Acetaminophen (Infant Tylenol) dosage, click here. Remember to always dose based on the weight of your child.

SLEEP

(Helpful hints for preventing problems)

Babies should always sleep on their backs to decrease the chance of SIDS.
Move your baby to a separate room.
Don't allow your baby to hold their bottle or take it to bed.
Try to delay middle-of-the-night feedings. Begin to discourage the 2:00 a.m. feeding by whatever means seem appropriate to you.
Never awaken your baby at night for a feeding except at your bedtime.
If your baby awakens, try holding him briefly to see if that will calm him prior to preparing a bottle or nursing. If you must feed him, give an ounce or two less than normal or nurse for a shorter interval at night.

FEVER

Check your child's temperature if he feels warm or is acting ill. If your child is acting ill or you have concerns, contact your physician. Remember, a fever is a common side effect of the immunizations given at two months. There is no need to contact your physician when fever is associated with immunizations, unless your child appears ill.