Baby's 9-month checkup

Your child has probably changed a lot since the last checkup. They can pull themselves up to stand, crawl, or even crawl backwards! Your baby may also babble and even say "mom" and "dad."

Here's what to expect during your baby's 9 month checkup.

You can expect your child's doctor to:

Check your child's weight, height and head circumference
Perform a physical examination of your child
Catch up on any missed immunizations; if it is fall or winter, your doctor may recommend a flu shot for your child.

Questions your babys's doctor may ask you

How is your baby moving?
Are they waving?
Are they sitting up by themselves?
Do they respond to their name?
Are they talking?

Diet questions you may have

When is it time for snacks?
How can I prevent choking?
What should I start with?

Feeding Tips

If your child tries to pick up or “scratch” small objects and sits up on his own, he is probably ready to eat with his fingers.
Cut food into small pieces so they don't choke. Remember that at this stage, the child is "erasing" and not chewing.
O-shaped flakes or small pieces of a ripe banana or avocado are good foods to start with.
Avoid raw vegetables, whole grapes, raisins, popcorn, hot dogs and nuts.
Remember that most children need to be given the same food 8-9 times before they start to like it.

Questions you may have about pacifiers

Can my child continue to use the pacifier?

Tips for using a pacifier

It's a good idea to start weaning your baby now. Limit the pacifier to the bed for sleeping and at night.
Using a pacifier over 2 years of age may cause dental and speech problems.
Most children stop on their own, but you can also encourage them.
Try to give it to the child only when he falls asleep. So stop that too.
Provide other comfort, such as a special toy or blanket.
During the day, try to distract your baby when he wants a pacifier.

Development questions you may have

How much should I play with my child?
Should I be worried if my baby is not crawling?

Child development tips

Play with your child as often as possible.
Let your child play alone too. This teaches them independence.
Some babies prefer to waddle, roll over or crawl rather than crawl. Any one of them is fine.
Don't take a walker. Walkers are dangerous and not recommended by experts. They do not encourage early walking.
Premature babies may be a little slower in learning certain skills in the first year or two.
All children are different and you really can't predict when a child will reach a milestone.

If you feel like your child is not "following" growth and development charts, just know that every child grows and develops at a different rate. Be sure to discuss any concerns you may have with your child's healthcare provider.