First Year Medical Milestones: Your Checklist for 1-Year-Olds
As a father, whether first time or with a growing squad, you will inevitably find yourself challenged to keep up with the routine healthcare of your child. Considering this care is for a developing child, there is a weight and gravity to it. It is not unusual for this to feel daunting, and at its worst, confusing and concerning. A little prep can go a long way.
This guide breaks down the essential medical visits and recommended vaccines your baby needs in their first year, provides a printable checklist to track everything, and shares practical tips for making these appointments go smoothly. Whether you're expecting or already in the thick of it, these resources will help you stay on top of your baby's healthcare needs.
The First Year Checklist
Here's your comprehensive checklist of medical visits and vaccines. Print this out and use it to track your baby's appointments and immunizations:
Newborn (0-1 month)
- □ First pediatrician visit (3-5 days old)
- □ Hepatitis B vaccine (birth)
- □ Newborn screening tests
- □ Weight check (2 weeks)
2 Months
- □ DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis)
- □ Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b)
- □ IPV (Polio)
- □ PCV13 (Pneumococcal)
- □ Rotavirus
- □ Growth and development check
4 Months
- □ DTaP (2nd dose)
- □ Hib (2nd dose)
- □ IPV (2nd dose)
- □ PCV13 (2nd dose)
- □ Rotavirus (2nd dose)
- □ Growth and development check
6 Months
- □ DTaP (3rd dose)
- □ Hib (3rd dose)
- □ IPV (3rd dose)
- □ PCV13 (3rd dose)
- □ Rotavirus (3rd dose)
- □ Flu shot (during flu season)
- □ Growth and development check
9 Months
- □ Development screening
- □ Iron deficiency check
- □ Growth assessment
12 Months
- □ MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- □ Varicella (Chickenpox)
- □ Hepatitis A
- □ Complete blood count
- □ Lead screening
- □ Comprehensive development assessment
Remember, this schedule is a general guide based on CDC recommendations. Your pediatrician might customize it based on your baby's specific needs. Always consult with your healthcare provider about your child's individual care plan.
Looking ahead to next year? View our Second Year Medical and Vaccine Checklist to prepare for your toddler's upcoming milestones.
Want to learn more about vaccines?
For a comprehensive overview of all recommended vaccines from birth through age two, including their history, safety records, and complete dosing schedules, check out our detailed guide:
View Complete Early Childhood Vaccine Guide →Preparing for Appointments
Through my experience, I've found these strategies helpful for managing medical visits:
- Schedule appointments for your baby's best time of day (usually morning)
- Bring comfort items (pacifier, blanket, toy)
- Pack snacks and drinks for longer visits
- Keep a small medical diary in your phone for questions between visits
- Take photos of any concerning rashes or symptoms as they occur
What to Expect at Each Visit
Each well-child visit typically includes:
- Weight, length, and head circumference measurements
- Physical examination
- Development assessment
- Discussion of feeding, sleep, and behavior
- Opportunity for parent questions
- Scheduled vaccines (if due)
Managing Vaccine Appointments
Here are my tried-and-tested tips for vaccine visits:
- Feed your baby just before the appointment
- Ask to hold your baby during vaccines
- Use skin-to-skin contact for comfort
- Have acetaminophen ready at home (ask doctor for dosing)
- Plan for extra cuddle time after vaccines
Remember: mild fever and fussiness are normal for 24-48 hours after vaccines. Your pediatrician will provide specific guidance for each visit.
Taking Action: Next Steps
- Print out the checklist above and put it somewhere visible
- Schedule your next well-child visit
- Set calendar reminders for upcoming appointments
- Download your health provider's app for easy scheduling
- Start a health diary in your notes app
Get our best tips and advice delivered once a month — quick reads, practical takeaways, no fluff.