There is so much to do and to understand and learn about your baby’s development in it’s first 3 months so we have compiled a list for you to read below.
Natural Abilities
Strength – The increased strength of your Baby’s neck muscles and back are noticeable, however they will need to be constantly supported. Your Baby’s legs are also getting stronger and they will be able to bounce on your lap if held in a standing position.
Movement – Your Baby becomes more in control of movement of their arms and legs and more aware of their surroundings. You will be even more aware of your Baby reaching for things and stretching. Your Baby will also realize they can roll from their tummy onto their back. Remember never to leave your Baby unattended on a high surface such as a bed or changing table.
Co-ordination
Vision – Focus has continued to develop and your Baby can see items at various distances (very distant objects will still be blurred). Mimicry of your facial expressions will increase. Your Baby’s ability to “follow” objects and you, with their eyes and turning of their head will develop further.
Hands – Movement of your Baby’s hands and arms is improving, with increased attempts to reach out and also to explore different objects by touch.
Grasping – Your Baby will be able to hold objects for longer and will bring all objects close to their face. You will still need to “give” objects to your Baby, as they will not be able to pick things up independently yet.
Sounds
Talking – At this stage of development your Baby’s sounds become louder and they will copy your “ooh’s” and “aahs”. Some Babies may even be able to manage simpler consonants such as “m” and “b”.
Crying – Your Baby’s different cries become even more distinctive and you will now easily be able to distinguish between a cry for hunger and a cry simply for your attention.
Contentment – Your Baby will also start to express even more and more sounds of contentment at this time. Gurgles and squeals will be heard.
Teaching
Self-amusement – Your Baby will begin to be more and more confident and content when left alone. Crying should reduce, as your Baby becomes aware of other sounds they can make that will get attention.
Grasping – As your Baby makes the connection that they are in control of objects they hold, they become more and more eager to explore new objects.
Reactions – Mealtimes and Bath time will result in more and more excitement as your Baby sees you preparing for both. Your routine should be well in place at this stage and as your Baby’s memory improves they will “know” the sequence of events leading up to mealtimes etc.
Books – You will notice that your Baby will now look at pages in a book and sometimes get excited as they turn the pages closer to a picture they are fond of. They will touch the pictures in the book.
Enjoyment
Stimulation – the Company of another person, being talked to and sung to and being fed. Baby Exercises and splashing in the bath are very enjoyable.
Contact – Being held over your shoulder as you walk around. Being carried in a Baby sling and walking around the house and to the park or shops. Your Baby will also enjoy looking at themselves in a mirror.
Bouncing and movement – When held in a standing position on your knee your Baby really enjoys bouncing up and down. When lying down your Baby will move their legs and arms quite energetically.
Games – Any of the “anticipatory” nursery rhyme games will be enjoyed. Again these nursery rhymes will rush back from your childhood. (e.g. “This Little Piggy”, “Round and Round the Garden” “Peek-a-Boo” etc.)
Baby Gym – Baby Gyms are highly recommended from this stage, particularly those with sounds and squeakers.
Play Suggestions
Facial Expressions – Continue to show your Baby lots of different facial expressions. Your Baby will mimic you more and more. Playing Peek-a-Boo is encouraged.
Toys – Introduce lots of colorful toys that make different sounds and are of different materials.
Talking – Encourage talking by repeating any sounds your Baby makes. This will provide your Baby with encouragement to be more vocal. When you talk to your Baby leave gaps for them to respond.
Touch – Try using a “Play mat” with lots of different materials and sounds. This will encourage movement and exploration.
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