Finding the Best Pediatrician For Your Baby
It can feel overwhelming to think about all the “to dos” before baby arrives. An important step is choosing your baby’s health care provider, whether that’s a pediatrician, family practice doctor, or NP (nurse practitioner). This person can be a critical guide for you as new parents. And if it doesn’t feel like a good fit, you can always switch providers.
This article will help you answer the questions swirling in your head:
Which types of healthcare professionals provide well-child visits?
How do I find the right provider for your child?
What should I look for in a healthcare provider for my child?
What questions can I ask my child’s provider in our first meeting/interview?
Which healthcare professionals provide well-child visits?
✅ Pediatricians : A medical doctor that specializes in the healthcare of infants and children. Many pediatricians will care for baby/children from birth through 18
✅ Family practice doctors: A medical doctor able to care for the whole family. After medical school, these doctors spend an additional 3 years in residence in the specialty of family practice that includes pediatrics.
✅ Nurse practitioners: Someone who enters the medical field by obtaining a nursing degree. Once the nurse has obtained a bachelor’s in nursing degree, they then move on to complete a nurse practitioner program that spans 3 years. The nurse practitioner holds a master’s degree in nursing and provides care for the whole family.
How do I find the right provider for your child?
☑️ Get recommendations from trusted providers you already like
☑️ Ask your trusted friends and colleagues
☑️ Verify that the provider you are leaning toward is covered by your health insurance.
☑️ Read reviews on Zocdoc and Healthgrades
☑️ Arrange a time for an interview with the providers on your “shortlist.”
What should I look for in a healthcare provider for my child? 🔎
✅ They should be willing to explain their thinking to you
✅ They should be curious (which likely means they’ll be critical thinkers & innovative)
✅ The should be willing to admit when something is outside of their wheelhouse
✅ They should be receptive listeners
✅ They should be accessible
✅ They should have a communication style and pace that you feel comfortable with
What questions can I ask my child’s provider in our first meeting/interview? 💬
☑️ What is your philosophy about breastfeeding? Bottle feeding?
☑️ What is your philosophy about sleep?
☑️ What is your philosophy about behavior challenges?
☑️ How would I reach you if I thought something was wrong?
☑️ Who covers for you when you’re not available?
☑️ How long does a typical check up last?
☑️ What’s the process if we have question for you but don't need to come in?
(Source: RN Sana Goldberg, “How to Be a Patient,” Chapter: When It’s Your Kid)
Remember, your child’s pediatrician is someone who you will be working with (theoretically) until your child is 18 years old. They can be a huge resource. And if it doesn’t feel like a good fit, you can always switch providers.
Written by Kathleen Stern (bio here). For more infant feeding and parent support, reach out to Kathleen at www.strongnestconsulting.com
Last updated December 14, 2025