Having a baby is one of the most exciting times for any couple or family. Whether it be the first baby or the second, third, fourth, or fifth, every addition adds to the excitement. With the excitement, however, comes a bit of anxiety. All parents watch their babies with wonder and love, but also with a bit of anxiety as they wait for their babies to hit their milestones.
The first year of a baby’s life is one of rapid growth and development, which means twelve months of milestones. Here is what parents can mostly expect or look out for:
First month
In your baby’s first four weeks of life, s/he is moving his head from side to side, making little sounds, and reacts to sounds and voices. They can see for about one-foot in front of them. At this age, your baby likes faces more than toys, so there isn’t any need to get them anything fancy yet. They are probably moving their arms and legs jerkily, and can follow some movements.
Second month
A baby’s second month brings about the first set of changes. Your baby may begin to show you some small smiles. They may begin to recognise people or specific things, start holding their head up, and trying to push up during tummy time. You will notice that their arm and leg movements are less jerky and are more controlled, so much so that they have started learning to calm themselves by bringing their hands to their mouth.
Note: Tummy time is very important during this month because it helps strengthen their muscles.
Third month
In the fourth month, your baby can begin to distinguish your face from other faces. They are probably smiling more, maybe even laughing a little. They’re making more sounds, making more eye contact, and are starting to hold their upper body with their arms. They may start pushing down with their feet when you hold them upright and let their feet touch the floor. They may also grasp and shake toys after they have grasped them.
It’s important for parents to remember that milestones move along a spectrum. The key words parents need to keep in mind are “around the age of”, which means if your baby is a little late to learning something or hasn’t hit a milestone exactly on the month that other babies do, worry not, some babies skip milestones and move straight to the next one. Your pediatrician will be asking you questions at each well visit to make sure that your baby is hitting the milestones within the spectrum and is developing normally and well.
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