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Parents often find this time period extremely exciting because of all the new things the baby can do when reaching out literally to grasp the world. The baby develops increasing control over body movements, and the early reflexes such as the grasp, Moro, and tonic neck, disappear. At the same time, the baby increasingly takes charge of planned, voluntary movement. Using The Muscles Babies learn to use different groups of muscles at different times. Gaining control of the body progresses from head to foot and from the center of the body to the limbs. Thus, babies can control their arms before their legs, and their shoulder muscles before their fingers. While the ability to turn the head and shoulders to follow an interesting object or sound comes almost automatically, it takes some practice to be able to grasp something with the hand. By the age of about six months, babies learn to control the muscles of the neck. This increased control is apparent when you pull the baby to a sitt...
While life with a three- to six-month-old still has its ups and downs, it's calmer and more predictable than the first few weeks. The whirlwind of activity that greets the arrival of a new baby has died down; cards and gifts have stopped arriving; and both parents (but especially the mother) are beginning to feel a bit more like themselves. Feeding, diapering, dressing, and bathing the baby have become second nature. Things are easier from the baby's point of view as well, largely because you have relaxed enough to learn the meanings of the various cries, gestures, and other signals with which she communicates. When your baby starts to fuss, you know what types of small adjustments less light, less noise, less intense interaction your baby may require to become content. As a result, you can both focus your attention on your budding social relationship. The third month marks an exciting turning point in the baby's development as a social being. Infants begin to cry less and spend ...
The developmental landmarks that babies ordinarily reach at certain ages are known as milestones. That word may make parents think of a kind of baby race run along a straight, narrow freeway. Unfortunately, parents sometimes buy into this view and worry excessively about how their babies are doing in comparison to others. It is important to remember that some people always fall on one side or the other of an average. (Otherwise, it wouldn't be an average!) While you may be very pleased if your baby turns over or sits on the early side of average, a baby who does these things a little later is no less likely to grow up healthy and intelligent. PHYSICAL MILESTONES Birth To Two Months Turns head when lying on stomach or back Holds chin up momentarily when lying on stomach Begins supporting head slightly Maintains strong grasp reflex Two To Three Months Raises head and chest when lying on stomach Makes swimming movements when lying on stomach Rolls from side to back Begins to los...
Unless a baby has a specific medical problem, your attention in feeding and frequent cuddling and caressing will assure that he thrives. A newborn's tiny body is, however, highly vulnerable to the stress of even a minor illness or other setback. Thus, new parents need to be aware of possible trouble signs or missed milestones (signs of normal development that should be reached by certain ages). At first, it may seem hard to balance vigilance with common sense. It's better to err on the side of caution, and call the doctor whenever anything seems unusual. Pediatricians are used to reassuring new parents, and they will understand your concern. Doctor visits: Why and how often Routine pediatrician visits are required to maintain your baby's health. Regular well-baby visits are essential for giving immunizations and monitoring growth and development. The first of these checkups is generally performed about two weeks after birth, although the exact timing varies from region to region ...
An infant carrier can help you hold your baby while you do errands or chores, indoors or out. Be sure the one you choose is the right size for a newborn. For longer trips, you'll need some kind of stroller or carriage. Make sure it is sturdy, safety approved, and easy to open and close. Most strollers have a seat that can be placed in either an upright or a reclining position for greater versatility. In the car, your baby will need an infant car seat. Some car seats can do double duty as adjustable infant seats or carriers, but babies generally outgrow these seats by four or five months of age. You can safely place a newborn in a larger car seat that can be adjusted for growth until age four or five, when the child can switch to a seat belt. If you choose the full-sized seat, find one with a three-point harness (which latches at each shoulder and between the legs), and be sure to place it in the car properly, so that the baby is facing the rear. (When the baby reaches a certain wei...