4 Month Check-up

Well, Dr. Glassman was not concerned in the least that David has yet to roll over. He said his daughter was the same way- sitting up at 3 1/2 months and didn't roll over 'til she was 7 months. So, that was a big relief. He did, however have plenty to say on a few other topics.

First, David's measurements were great! He is 15lbs. and 8 oz. (5oth percentile) and 26 inches long (75th percentile). The doctor was very happy with his growth and other developmental milestones. All the nurses thought he was SO cute and loved his hair.

Secondly, which was his biggest concern, was David's sleeping (or lack of) at night. He says it's time to teach him how to self-sooth for my sanity and his health. This means letting him fuss a little (10 minutes at first) if he wakes up, not giving him his pacifier at bedtime (and preferably at nap time too) so that he doesn't become dependent on it, and putting him down before he falls completely asleep. All three are going to be very difficult for me. But, he said a child who gets good sleep, good food, and, later, good physical activity is a much healthier and happier adult. And now that he is 4 months old it's time to start working on it. But, since we are going to the beach tomorrow for a week, he wants us to wait until David is in his own crib and home to start our new routine. But, he did say we could go ahead and start working on fazing out the paci. Not that he can't ever have it at all. When he needs comfort or just something in his mouth it's okay for him to have it. Dr. Glassman also said that co-sleeping is fine as long as it doesn't interfere with my sleep. I've never really been a big fan of co-sleeping but, David does sleep wonderfully when he's next to me and I sleep well too because I know he's okay. It's just harder to break the older they get, so I'm a bit weary.

Next, I mentioned to the doctor that David LOVES to stare at the tv. If there is one on in the room he will find it and his eyes will lock on it immediately. Dr. Glassman suggested David be exposed to as little tv as possible before he is 2 years old. At that age, he will be able to watch the tv and actually get something out of it (assuming it's educational). But, right now it's just a distraction from his toys, books, and human affection which he needs more right now.

Lastly, David has been given the green light to start on baby food sometime between now and 6 months!! I can't wait for him to try the squash and green beans my mom and I made for him!! He will start on cereal and then we will introduce a new food every 5 days or so. I'm sure we will also start that soon after we get back.

At the very end David got two shots, one in each thigh. His reaction was a bit delayed but very heartbreaking none the less. He cried for a good while, but finally calmed down enough for me to put his clothes on. He got two blue camo band aids for his pain and suffering. He seemed to have some pain at the injection sights this evening and was a bit whinny and clingy to me. Hopefully we will sleep well tonight 'cause we're off to the beach early in the morning!