Notice new skills and share your concerns early
Care and guidance for your baby
Your baby’s movement, responses and communication give you and the pediatrician useful information over time. Bring observations and questions to Gentle Touch Pediatrics in Canarsie.
Watch the pattern as your baby grows
Notice how your baby responds to faces and sounds, moves and interacts. Use an age-appropriate checklist to organize observations, then discuss them with the pediatrician. A checklist is not a diagnosis.
If you are concerned or your baby loses a skill, contact the pediatrician instead of waiting for the next scheduled checkup. Early discussion can help identify whether assessment or support is needed.
Monitoring and screening are different
Developmental monitoring happens through ongoing observations and conversations. Formal screening uses a structured tool to look more closely at development. The AAP recommends general developmental screening at 9, 18 and 30 months, and whenever a concern warrants it.
Ask what screening is planned and how you will receive the results. Hospital newborn screening is a separate process from developmental screening.
Make room for supervised awake play
Talk, sing and respond to your baby during daily care. Give your baby opportunities for awake, supervised tummy time, following the pediatrician’s advice for their health and development.
Tummy time does not change back-sleeping recommendations. If your baby falls asleep, move them to the appropriate sleep space and position.
Questions from parents
Should I compare my baby with other babies?
Use your baby’s development over time and age-appropriate guidance as starting points. Discuss concerns with the pediatrician rather than deciding from a comparison alone.
Can a milestone checklist diagnose a delay?
No. A checklist helps organize observations. A clinician can decide whether screening, assessment or referral is needed.
When is developmental screening recommended?
General screening is recommended at 9, 18 and 30 months, and when concerns arise. Ask your pediatrician about the plan for your child.
What if my baby loses a skill?
Contact the pediatrician promptly and explain what changed and when. Do not wait for the next routine checkup.
Is tummy time safe during sleep?
Tummy time is awake and supervised. Place your baby on their back in an appropriate sleep space for sleep.
More newborn guidance
Your pediatrician in Canarsie
Meet Dr. Miole Pierre Pigeot, MD, the practice pediatrician. Gentle Touch Pediatrics is at 9708 Seaview Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11236. Call 347-702-5161 to discuss scheduling and office hours.
Ask the office to confirm your baby’s exact insurance plan, appointment availability and any records needed.
Medical information and sources
Updated September 12, 2026. General information supports a conversation with your pediatrician and does not replace assessment of your baby. CDC: Developmental monitoring and screening · NIH: Safe to Sleep.