Your Baby’s 2-Month Checkup

At 2 months, your baby still keeps you guessing, but her sleeping and eating habits are starting to become more predictable. At this point her natural eye color will start to change and her face will start looking thinner and her body chubbier than even a week ago. Her size and weight will be the focus of this health check visit, along with feeding and the build-up in crying that's expected at this age. Also, it's time for the first set of immunizations.

At this visit, your provider will probably:

• Check your baby's weight to make sure she's growing at a healthy, steady rate. Click here to view our growth chart. Ask you about your baby's hearing, eyesight, and other new skill developments.

• Give you some insight into your baby's development and behavior at this age.

• Give your baby her first big round of immunizations.

• Address any minor health concerns, such as how to alleviate cradle cap or diaper rash, for example.

• Answer any breastfeeding questions you may have.

• Talk about how to handle minor illnesses at home.

What your provider will want to know

• Has your baby seen another healthcare provider since the last visit? If so, why? What was the outcome of that visit and were any medications or treatments prescribed?

• Does your baby hold her head up when you put her on her tummy?

• Does she use her forearms to elevate her upper chest when put down?

• Does she smile on her own?

• Does she make cooing sounds when you talk to her?

• Does she bring her legs up when she's on her back?

• Does she hold her head more steadily when you hold her up to your shoulder or pick her up?

• Does she sleep longer at night and less during the day?

• Does she have a crying spell at the end of the day? All of these behaviors are expected at this time.

Talk It Over

• Daily routine. How's your baby eating? How's she sleeping? What are her crying patterns like? Discuss these things with your provider. If your baby seems especially fussy, your provider may be able to show you ways to soothe her.

• Going back to work. If you must return to work soon, discuss with your provider ways to make the transition smoother for you and your baby.

• Discuss confusing or contradictory advice. Everyone has theories about child raising, but your healthcare provider is the one you should listen to for the most current recommendations.

• Family life. Discuss how your family is adapting to life with the new baby, and bring up any sibling issues that are becoming hard to manage.

• Getting out. If you haven't been out of the house with your new baby, discuss this with your healthcare provider.

• Doctor Mom. Are you ready to handle minor illnesses or a fever that may follow your baby's shots? Get instructions before you leave.

Speak Up!

Many new parents notice changes in their baby's vision and hearing around this age. Talk to your provider about any concerns you have. Your provider will want to know about it if your baby:

• Doesn't look at you or follow you with his eyes as you move from side to side within his range of vision. At this age, his range is about 6 to 18 inches.

• Doesn't turn toward voices, especially yours or those of familiar people such as caregivers or other relatives.

• Isn't smiling in response to you or others.

• Still feels so limp that it seems he'll slip out of your grasp, or his head still bobbles a great deal.

• Moves unevenly or moves one leg or arm more than the other.

• Has any problems with his eyes, particularly if they're runny or have pus. He may have a plugged or narrow tear duct that needs attention.

• Doesn't make any sounds.

• Doesn't stay alert for more than 30 minutes at any time.

• Doesn't have health insurance. There are programs available to get that coverage.

If things are not falling into place for you as a parent or haven't improved at all since last month, let your provider know. If you are depressed, your baby will be able to pick up on it and it could affect his development. He needs you to be at your best for his own mental and emotional growth, so get some help now. You can ask your provider or the healthcare facility for a referral.

Finally, remember that every baby is different and develops at his own pace. Talking with your provider if you have any concerns can be just the reassurance a new parent needs.