As your little one approaches the 9-month mark, you might notice them developing new skills daily. Is that sweet baby babble starting to resemble words? Perhaps you’re hearing “Dada” or “Mama” more often. While it might be tough to determine if those sounds are intentional yet, it’s hard not to melt at the sound of your baby’s voice!
At this 9-month visit, there’s good news: your baby will not receive any vaccinations unless they need to catch up on a missed dose or get their annual flu shot. However, the doctor will conduct a comprehensive assessment to monitor your child’s growth and development.
The Physical Checkup
During the checkup, the pediatrician will perform a full physical examination to evaluate your baby’s growth. There may also be a routine finger prick to test for anemia, although this could be postponed until the 1-year visit.
Developmental Milestones
You’re likely well aware of all the skills your baby has been mastering, but the doctor will want to observe these milestones too—or at least hear about them from you if your little one is feeling shy. Some key milestones for 9 months include:
- Sitting up independently
- Crawling
- Pulling up to a standing position while holding onto furniture
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In summary, the 9-month well-baby visit is a crucial opportunity for parents to track their child’s development and ensure they’re on the right path. Engaging with resources and communities can further support your journey to parenthood.