Dr

WHEN SHOULD THE UMBILICAL CORD FALL OFF?
The umbilical stump usually separates from the abdominal wall by 1 month of age; if not, the physician may assist in its separation with suture ligation and/or with application of Silver Nitrate which will cauterize the remaining cord.

WHEN SHOULD I START CEREAL AND BABY FOODS?
Introduction of solid foods should be delayed until at least 4 months of age, as the sooner solids are introduced the more likely the child will develop food allergies.

HOW LONG DO I NEED TO TAKE CARE OF THE CIRCUMCISION?
Care of the circumcised penis with petroleum jelly after cleansing should be continued until the penis is no longer inflamed, red, or swollen, then care should be the same as the rest of the baby's skin elsewhere.

HOW WELL DOES MY BABY SEE?
The one month old child should be able to distinguish light from dark and see objects up to 2 feet away.

HOW CAN I GET MY BABY TO SLEEP BETTER AT NIGHT?
Babies usually do not sleep all night until about 3 to 4 months of age. The 1 month old infant will often be awake at least once or twice during the night for a feeding. You can start guiding the baby's sleeping habits somewhat at this age by making the night-time feedings as non-stimulating as possible by not turning on bright lights, televisions, or stereos, and by putting him back to sleep immediately after the diaper is changed and the baby is fed. Conversely, during the daytime stimulate the baby by playing with him, giving him a bath, going for walks, etc. Over a period of time he will develop a more normal livable schedule.

WHAT SHOULD I DO WHEN MY BABY CRIES CONSTANTLY?
Try to console the infant, but recognize that he may not always be consolable regardless of what you do. Many infants have a daily fussy period in the late afternoon or evening. Crying may increase over the first one to two months of life, including a possible peak of approximately three hours per day at six weeks of age. Discuss any concerns with the health professional.

WHEN DOES MY CHILD RETURN FOR HIS NEXT HEALTH SUPERVISION VISIT?
At 2 months of age your child should have his next health supervision visit.