Q: How often should my baby go to the pediatrician during the first year?
A: Your baby should see his or her pediatrician within one week from birth and at one, two, four, six, nine and 12 months of age for a physical. Read more on Planning Your Visit »
Q: When will my baby begin teething?
A: Every child is different. The first tooth could appear anywhere from four to 18 months of age.
Q: When can I start transitioning my child to solid food?
A: During the first several months, your baby will only need breast milk or formula for proper nutrition. When your baby is able to sit upright in a highchair and begins showing interest in food, you can start transitioning your baby to solid foods with pureed foods and cereals (iron fortified).
Q: My baby seems very uneasy around strangers. Is this normal?
A: Many babies will display fear or unease around strangers, called stranger anxiety. They may also cry or act upset when a caregiver leaves, called separation anxiety.
Q: When will my baby begin to crawl? To walk?
A: Babies develop leg and trunk coordination by six to nine months of age, allowing them to begin crawling and/or pull themselves into a standing position. Your baby may start to walk in the few months before his or her first birthday.
Q: If my baby gets a cold, can I give him some of my cold medicine?
A: Babies should not be given medication that is not adjusted for their age. Be sure to learn about proper dose and always ask your pediatrician. View dosing sheets for Advil, Tylenol and Motril.
Q: My baby doesn’t seem to be meeting the developmental milestones. Does this mean that my baby has a developmental disability?
A: Every baby is different. Always ask your pediatrician if you have questions or concerns. Should testing be recommended, NorthShore’s Pediatric Neurology department will be there to guide you through testing, diagnosis, treatment and planning for the future.
Q: I read that there are bad side effects with vaccines, such as autism. Can I choose not to vaccinate my child?
A: Please speak with your child’s pediatrician before deciding not to vaccinate your child. There is no evidence that receiving more than one immunization at a time causes any harm to your child, nor will they cause autism. Choosing not to vaccinate your child puts him or her at serious risk for illness. See the recommended immunization schedule »
Q: How can I make sure that my car seat and crib are set up correctly?
A: Read our Safety Concerns page for safety guidelines on nursery equipment and other objects in the home.
Q: My baby seems to get sick a lot. Is this normal?
A: Yes. Because your child’s immune system is still developing, he or she is more prone to illness. Most common illnesses can be treated at home, but some may require a trip to the pediatrician’s office. Read When to Visit »