9 Month Check Up

DIET:

Continue to breast feed or formula feed either on a schedule or on demand. Babies may now eat less frequently-4 to 5 times daily-with total volume often between 24-30 ounces. You will begin giving cow’s milk at 12 months, however other milk products like yogurt, cottage cheese, ice cream are fine. Give water (no juice yet) if thirsty the other times of day.

Continue to advance the diet with an increase in texture and more table foods. Some examples are: pancakes, soft bread, soft cheese, small pieces of shredded chicken, ground beef, french fries, etc. You also may begin finger foods-cheerios, biter biscuits, puffs, etc. Be careful of choking hazards-hot dogs, grapes, olives, peanuts, cookies, popcorn, apples, and raw vegetables. Continue to avoid: honey, peanut butter, eggs, strawberries and shellfish.

SLEEP:

Continue with a good bedtime routine. Hopefully, most babies will be in a good routine and will sleep about 10-12 hours a night, with a couple of naps during the day.

DEVELOPMENT:

Continue to read to your child. Most kids will be sitting without support, beginning to crawl, rolling both ways, and some may be pulling to stand and cruising around furniture. They should know their name and will begin to learn the word “no.” They may begin to say dada and mamma and begin to look when you say “where is mommy, where is the dog, etc.” They will like to begin to go outside, watch videos and begin to play with toys.

SAFETY:

Continue in a rear facing car seats until one year of age. Close the bathroom doors, be careful in the kitchen with the dishwasher, stove and oven. You can give them a drawer or cabinet that has pots/pans to play with, but make the kitchen off limits when you are cooking. Continue to be aware of choking hazards. Use sunscreen daily and insect repellent when appropriate. Turn your hot water heater down one notch from the highest setting. Place all chemicals, cleaning agents, pet food, etc up and out of the way. Also do not keep water stored in 5 gallon buckets.

DISCIPLINE:

At 9 months, you finally have to start being a parent. Your child should begin to understand no-but most likely will not mind it! Be firm and consistent. Tantrums will begin. Ignoring tantrums is the most effective way to deal with them. Time out or spanking is usually not recommended until the child is older.

Next Appointment:

3 months-after birthday

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