The baby’s growth continues right after birth and it speeds up dramatically during the first three months of its life. Although babies reach their development milestones eventually, each baby has its own schedule. This article will explain the baby’s development milestones and what to expect.
At this stage, you may feel that caring for your baby is limited to feeding, changing its diapers and calming it down round the clock. However, do not forget to watch for your baby’s development milestones as follows:
Motor Skills: at the beginning, your baby will not be able to support its head. You will find it tilting forward and backward if you do not support it. The baby will quickly be able to raise its head and chest while laying on its stomach. It will also be able to spread its legs and kick in this position. It will also be able to hold on to a toy for a few moments.
Hearing: Your baby will become more sensitive to sounds. It will respond to your voice by smiling and laughing and it will also move its head towards your voice.
Vision: The baby will be able to stare at your face and your eyes. This will be noticeable during breastfeeding. At one month, you will notice that the baby is staring at colors with high contrast as well as shapes in black and white. At two months, it will be able to stare with both eyes at the same time and to follow moving objects. It will also be able to identify people and objects at a distance.
Communications: At two months, the baby may start sounding partial words such as “O” or “A” when you speak or play with it.
How can you help your baby?
In order for your baby to grow normally, you will need to bond with it and to trust your ability to meet its needs.
Carry your baby: that will make your baby feel safe and loved. Let your baby hold your fingers and touch your face.
Speak freely: simple conversations will help your baby develop language. Sing or read aloud, ask questions and respond to its movement and sound. Describe what you see, hear and smell. Remember that your tone will deliver your thoughts and feelings.
Change your baby’s position: carry your baby so that it is facing forward. You can also put it on its stomach but keep a close watch. Put a colorful toy next to it and make sounds to grab its attention and encourage it to raise its head. Do not let it sit in this position for too long because it may be annoying for it. If your baby feels dizzy, put it on its back to sleep.
Respond quickly: crying increases at 6 weeks and then gradually goes away. Respond to your baby quick if it is hungry, needs a diaper change or even a hug. Do not worry about spoiling your baby. On the other hand, this will help you create a strong bond with your baby.
Is my baby delayed?
Your baby may achieve some milestones earlier and take its time in others. This is normal. But you need to know the signs that may indicate a development delay. Consult a physician if you notice any of the following before 3 months:
• If it shows no sign of improvement in controlling its head.
• If it does not respond to loud sounds.
• If it does not smile to others or when you speak to it.
• If it does not follow nearby moving objects.
• If it is not able to watch its hands move.
• If it is not holding and picking objects.
Remember that every child is different, but always follow your gut feeling. The earlier we can identify problem signs, the earlier we can address them.