Babies, Parenting, Child Health, Infant Nutrition

Infant Development - The First 3 Months

10.23.2007 | 11:10:33 pm | Posted by mummums

By Colleen Hurley, RD, Certified Kid’s Nutrition Specialist

After just having a baby, you may feel that life is an endless cycle of diaper changing, feeding, and sleepless nights. However, your baby is changing a lot during her first 3 months of life and part of the joy of being a new parent is to watch and nurture these changes.

Once you and your baby are able to ease into a routine, there will be plenty of exciting developmental changes happening in his life to delight in:

He is getting coordinated: Within the first few months, your baby will start to lift his head while lying on his tummy and although unlikely to roll over, he may be able to roll from side to back. Leg kicking and arm stretching will become more rapid, and if you offer a toy, he may even grab onto it for a few seconds.

She is focusing: Your baby will start to focus clearly on your face during a feeding (about 12 inches away). Soon, more colors, sizes, shapes, and complex designs will become intriguing to her. You may even notice her studying her own hands and feet.

She is responding to sound: Expect your baby to respond to the sound of your voice. Even noises around the house such as running water, a loud bang, or footsteps may elicit a response from her in the form of a blink, facial expression, increased arm or leg movement, or a slowed sucking rhythm.

He is displaying affection: One of the most exciting developments is when your baby smiles back at you for the first time. At 2 months old, he may coo when you talk to him, mimic your facial expressions, reach for you when he needs attention, and snuggle in your arms to get comfortable.

Your bond with your baby is as important as the foods you give him as they will provide the foundation to his healthy development. Have faith in your ability to provide what your baby needs. Here are a few things you can do to nurture these developmental changes:

Respond to tears

It is not possible to spoil a newborn so try to respond quickly to tears. Although the average newborn can cry for more than 2 hours on any given day, your attention to those tears with help strengthen your bond. If your baby needs a diaper change, a feeding, or some attention, your response will help build the confidence she needs to become independent.

Have a chat

Describe what you see, ask questions, respond to his gurgles and coos using words that apply to his everyday life. Although he may not understand what you are saying, even the simplest conversations lay the groundwork for future language development. Keep in mind the tone of your voice can also communicate emotions.

Babies need hugs too

Gentle caressing, snuggling, and rocking can help your new baby feel secure, safe, and loved.

It is important to remember that each baby reaches milestones at different times. This is perfectly normal as every baby is unique- but your instincts are important too. If you have any concerns or questions about your baby’s development, be sure to consult your physician.

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The Baby Mum-Mum blog discusses everything to do with babies and parenting with a focus on child health and child development. Baby Mum-Mum is a healthy, easy to digest baby rice snack that is enjoyed by babies and mothers around the world for its portability, gluten free ingredients and great taste. Baby Mum-Mum is a division of Want-Want Holdings, a manufacturer of healthy snack foods, beverages and related products since 1962.

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