The first birthday is an important milestone for your child, marking the boundary between babyhood and the toddler they’ll become. While they won’t need as many regular doctor’s appointments in their second year, your pediatrician will need to give them a checkup and a few vaccines. Here's a closer look at what your baby’s first annual wellness check will entail.

What to Expect at Your Baby’s 12-Month Checkup

The Physical Exam

Like any other exam, your baby’s pediatrician will measure their length, weight, and the circumference of their head. Comparing these numbers to the average baby birth charts will help confirm that your child is developing normally.

If your baby didn’t get a blood test at their last appointment, the doctor might also prick their finger to check their levels of iron and other vitamins. This gives your pediatrician the chance to detect certain issues, such as anemia, and recommend dietary changes to ensure your baby has the nutrition they need.

Observing Developmental Milestones

Every child develops on their own schedule. Some might already be walking at 12 months, while others keep crawling for several months into their second year. The pediatrician will try to see whether your child is standing up on their own or relying on furniture. They'll also observe how they're using gestures to communicate.

Getting Vaccines

Depending on the vaccination schedule your pediatrician uses, your child will likely receive a few immunizations around their first birthday. They might get a dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), chickenpox, and hepatitis A vaccines. They might also be ready for another shot of hepatitis B, Hib, PCV13, and polio vaccines.

With offices in Rock Hill and Chester, SC, Mante Pediatrics offers compassionate pediatrician services to children throughout the area. Their highly experienced team provides the care and treatment your children need to be healthy from birth to adulthood. Visit their website to learn more about their services, call (803) 980-5700 to reach their Rock Hill location, or dial (803) 385-2075 to schedule an appointment in Chester.