Birth To 3 Months - Your Baby Is An Amazing Little One
As a newborn, he needs you to hold him, rock him, sing to him and talk to him. He likes to snuggle and hear your voice. You should go to him when he cries and see what is wrong. Don't worry about spoiling him. He cries because he needs something: milk, a dry diaper, warmth or he may just be lonely or uncomfortable.
Things Babies May Do The First Three Months
- Focus eyes on objects about 12 inches away
- Raise head when lying on his stomach
- Jump at loud noises
- Make cooing sounds
- Watch own hands move
- Smile back when you smile at him
- Hold a rattle for a few minutes
Safety First!
Handle your baby with care. Soft voices and gentle movements--even when your baby is crying--are necessary for your baby to grow into a strong, secure and alert child. Remember: When holding your baby, sudden jolts or jerking movements can harm your baby.
If you use a bottle to feed your baby, be sure to thoroughly wash the bottle and nipple and to sterilize them before each use.
Toys You Can Make Or Buy
Pictures of faces or black and white patterns to hang over his bed.
An unbreakable mirror to tie on the side of his bed so he can watch himself.
Small rattles that fit in his hands.
Bright colored toys that you can tie across his bed for him to hit with his hands or kick with his feet.
New Experiences
When you travel by car, be sure to put your baby in a rear facing infant seat which is buckled in the back seat of your car.
Take the baby with you to your place of worship, the grocery store, or shopping so that he can see new people and places.
Health Hints:
Remember to take your baby to a doctor for a check up to get the shots he needs. These "Well Baby Check-ups" are very important in order to keep your baby healthy.
Things You Can Do Everyday To Help Your Baby Grow
Gently stroke his fingers, hands, toes, arms, legs and feet with your fingertips. Remember, the human touch is miraculous.
Your touch tell your baby that he is loved & that he is safe. Touch stimulates physical growth & brain development - It is essential for your baby.
Sing, read or speak softly to him when you are holding him. You are building a feeling of security for your child that will serve him the rest of his life.
Tell him what you are doing when you are taking care of him: "I am changing your diaper." "Oh, let's wash your toes." "Now, let's wash your hands!"
Hold him in front of a mirror so that he can see himself and you. Talk to him as you both look in the mirror.
Place a rattle in his hand and see how long he can hold it. At first it will be a very short time. He will be able to hold it longer and longer as he gets older.
Smile at him and look right into his eyes when you talk to him. You are letting him know that he is the most important thing in the world.
Governor Bill Haslam
