Age Guide to Fed Your Baby

Age: Birth to 4 months

Feeding behavior • Rooting reflex helps your baby turn toward a nipple to find nourishment
What to feed • Breast milk or formula ONLY	How much per day • See How to Tell if Your Baby's Getting Enough Breast Milk • See How to Tell How Much Formula Your Baby Needs
Feeding tip • Your baby's digestive tract is still developing, so solid food is off-limits for now.

Age: 4 to 6months

Signs of readiness for solid food Your baby probably won't do all these things — they're just clues to watch for. • Can hold head up • Sits well in highchair • Makes chewing motions • Shows significant weight gain (birth weight has doubled) • Shows interest in food • Can close mouth around a spoon • Can move food from front to back of mouth • Can move tongue back and forth, but is losing tendency to push food out with tongue • Seems hungry after 8 to 10 feedings of breast milk or 40 oz. of formula in a day • Is teething
What to feed • Breast milk or formula, PLUS • Semi-liquid iron-fortified rice cereal, THEN • Other grain cereals like oats or barley	How much per day • Begin with about 1 teaspoon dry rice cereal mixed with 4 to 5 teaspoons breast milk or formula (it'll be very runny). • Gradually thicken consistency and increase to 1 tablespoon dry cereal mixed with breast milk or formula, twice a day.
Feeding tips • If your baby won't eat the cereal on the first try, offer it again in a few days.

Age: 6 to 8 months

Signs of readiness for solid food • Same as 4 to 6 months
What to feed • Breast milk or formula, PLUS • Iron-fortified cereals (rice, barley, oats) • Pureed or strained fruits (banana, pears, applesauce, peaches) • Pureed or strained vegetables (avocado, well-cooked carrots, squash, and sweet potato)	How much per day • 3 to 9 tablespoons cereal, in 2 to 3 feedings • 1 teaspoon fruit, gradually increased to ¼ to ½ cup in 2 to 3 feedings • 1 teaspoon vegetables, gradually increased to ¼ to ½ cup in 2 to 3 feedings
Feeding tips • Introduce new foods one at a time, with at least three days in between to make sure your baby's not allergic.

Age: 8 to 10 months

Signs of readiness for solid and finger foods • Same as 6 to 8 months, PLUS • Picks up objects with thumb and forefinger (pincer grasp) • Can transfer items from one hand to the other • Puts everything in his mouth • Moves jaw in a chewing motion
What to feed • Breast milk or formula, PLUS • Small amounts of soft pasteurized cheese, yogurt, cottage cheese (but no cows' milk until age 1) • Iron-fortified cereals (rice, barley, wheat, oats, mixed cereals) • Mashed fruits and vegetables (bananas, peaches, pears, avocados, cooked carrots, squash, potatoes, sweet potatoes) • Finger foods (lightly toasted bagels, cut up; small pieces of ripe banana; well-cooked spiral pasta; teething crackers; low-sugar O-shaped cereal) • Small amounts of protein (egg, pureed meats, poultry, and boneless fish; tofu; well-cooked and mashed beans with soft skins like lentils, split peas, pintos, black beans) • Non-citrus juice (apple or pear)	How much per day • ¼ to 1/3 cup dairy (or ½ oz. cheese) • ¼ to ½ cup iron-fortified cereal • ¼ to ½ cup fruit • ¼ to ½ cup vegetables • 1/8 to ¼ cup protein foods • 3 to 4 oz. non-citrus juices
Feeding tip • Introduce new foods one at a time, with at least three days in between to make sure your baby's not allergic.

Age: 10 to 12 months

Signs of readiness for additional solid food • Same as 8 to 10 months, PLUS • Swallows food more easily • Has more teeth • No longer pushes food out with tongue • Is trying to use a spoon
What to feed • Breast milk or formula PLUS • Soft pasteurized cheese, yogurt, cottage cheese (but no cows' milk until age 1) • Iron-fortified cereals (rice, barley, wheat, oats, mixed cereals) • Fruit cut into cubes or strips, or mashed • Bite-size, soft-cooked vegetables (peas, carrots) • Combo foods (macaroni and cheese, casseroles) • Protein (egg; pureed or finely ground meats, poultry, and boneless fish; tofu; well-cooked and mashed beans) • Finger foods (lightly toasted bread or bagels, small pieces of ripe banana, spiral pasta, teething crackers, low-sugar O-shaped cereal) • Non-citrus juice	How much per day • 1/3 cup dairy (or ½ oz. cheese) • ¼ to ½ cup iron-fortified cereal • ¼ to ½ cup fruit • ¼ to ½ cup vegetables • 1/8 to ¼ cup combo foods • 1/8 to ¼ cup protein foods • 3 to 4 oz. non-citrus juices
Feeding tip • Introduce new foods one at a time, with at least three days in between to make sure your baby's not allergic.

7 week old Baby

1months old - week 4

Reaching out

Your baby's hands should be mostly open now — ready to reach out to the world. In the early days of your baby's life, grabbing was mostly automatic and instinctual and she couldn't let go if she wanted to. Although she can't really grab objects just yet, she can hold things placed in her hands. And, once she wraps her hands around something, she might not let go so easily. She'll also begin to try and bat at objects, so keep potentially dangerous objects far from your little one's reach. This means not holding hot liquids or sharp objects while you're holding her.
Learning begins now

You may notice short periods of time when your newborn is quiet and alert. This is prime time for learning: Your baby's brain will grow about 5 centimeters during her first three months!

Use these calm intervals to get better acquainted with your baby — talk to her, sing to her, describe the pictures on the walls. She may not be able to add to your conversation just yet, but she's learning nonetheless.

New textures for her hands to feel and new sights and sounds (all in moderation) are all learning opportunities. Even bath time becomes a laboratory for understanding life.
Eyes can track objects

With both eyes now able to follow things consistently and well, your baby can track a moving object much better, something she may have been able to do for only brief periods since birth.

The stores are packed with developmental toys, but you'll do just as well with everyday objects. Pass a rattle or a bright plastic ladle horizontally in front of her. Then try moving it up and down. This should attract your baby's attention, though she probably won't be able to smoothly follow things vertically for another three months and diagonally for another six months.

You can also play eyes-to-eyes by moving very close to her face and slowly nodding your head from side to side. Often her eyes will lock onto yours.

How your baby's growing:

Your baby's brain is expanding in size and complexity. It will grow about 5 centimeters during the first three months.

You may notice short periods of time when your newborn is quiet and alert. This is prime time for learning. Use these calm intervals to get better acquainted with your baby — talk to her, sing to her, describe the pictures on the walls. She may not be able to add to your conversation just yet, but she's learning nonetheless.

New textures for her hands to feel and new sights and sounds (all in moderation) are all learning opportunities. Even bath time becomes a laboratory for understanding the world around her.

Vaccines

Tomorrow Our baby boy turn to 1 month old. Hopefully n friday we can bring our baby boy to Panaga Clinic for vaccines shots.


Why are so many vaccines recommended for babies?
No parent enjoys seeing her baby getting shots or taking medicine. But vaccines are designed to provide protection against serious diseases and many people consider them the most important part of well-baby checkups. Some of those diseases (such as polio and diphtheria) were much more common a hundred years ago, but are rarely seen now in the United States, thanks to immunization programs.

How do they work?
Vaccines contain "weakened" or killed versions of the virus or bacteria that causes a disease. After a baby receives the vaccine, his immune system creates antibodies to the virus or bacteria that will protect him against the disease if he's exposed.

What's the vaccine schedule?
Immunizations given in the first year include the following:

• DTaP: Protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough). Five doses: at 2, 4, and 6 months, between 15 and 18 months, and between 4 and 6 years.
• Flu ("influenza"): Protects against the influenza virus, which can cause severe respiratory infections and pneumonia. A yearly dose is recommended for those 6 months to 18 years old during flu season (fall and winter). Children younger than 9 getting a flu shot for the first time need two doses of vaccine the first year they're vaccinated, administered one month apart.
• HBV (hepatis B): Protects against the hepatitis B virus, which attacks the liver. Three doses: at birth, between 1 and 2 months, and between 6 and 18 months.
• Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b bacteria): Protects against meningitis, blood infection, pneumonia, and epiglottitis. Four doses: at 2, 4, and 6 months, and between 12 and 15 months.
• PCV (pneumococcal) vaccine: Protects against pneumococcal pneumonia (a common lung disease), meningitis, and ear infections. Four doses: at 2, 4, and 6 months, and between 12 and 15 months.
• Polio (IPV or inactivated polio virus): Protects against polio, which can cause paralysis and death. Four doses: at 2 and 4 months, between 6 and 18 months, and between 4 and 6 years.
• Rotavirus vaccine: Protects against rotavirus, which causes severe diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and dehydration. Unlike the other vaccines, it's a liquid given by mouth. Three doses: at 2, 4, and 6 months.

Vaccines recommended for babies after age 1 include varicella (for chicken pox), MMR (for measles, mumps, and rubella), and hepatitis A.


info from babycenter.com

Growth Of 4 weeks old Baby

How your baby's growing:

Your baby may gurgle, coo, grunt, and hum to express his feelings. A few babies also begin squealing and laughing. Be sure to coo and gurgle back, and talk to your baby face to face. He'll enjoy holding your gaze now.

If you have things to do, your baby will still enjoy hearing your voice from across the room. And don't feel silly about using baby talk — babies are particularly attuned to this high-pitched, drawn-out way of communicating, which can actually teach your baby about the structure and function of language

Your life: Mixed feelings

Even when you're the happiest person on earth to be a new parent, it's common to have nagging little feelings of disappointment. Not that you want to tell anyone. But you spent nine months imagining what your baby would be like and now here he is — perhaps not exactly what you'd pictured. Parents of a baby born with a health problem are especially vulnerable to this feeling of not getting what they'd bargained for. But parents of healthy children often have such feelings too.

In all of these situations, there's a wonderful new baby to celebrate. And yet there's often an imaginary baby to mourn before the real baby can be fully embraced. Rarely does anybody talk about this phenomenon, but it's perfectly normal and human. So if your joy is tinged with a little regret, don't feel guilty. Give yourself a little space to privately grieve, and then count the blessings you do have.

Playtime

Playing with your newborn is a perfect way to gently guide him into his new — and unfamiliar — world. Mobiles with high-contrast patterns and books with photos of babies' faces will captivate him.

A play gym full of compelling toys to look at, swipe at, and listen to will give your baby practice with arm, hand, and finger coordination skills — and make lying down more interesting! You can even lie down on the floor next to your baby and join in the fun.

Although your baby can grab with gusto now, he doesn't yet have the hand-eye coordination to reach for an object you pass in front of him. That skill will develop at about 4 months of age. In the meantime, you'll have to place toys in his hand — your pinky may be an unexpected favorite.

Exploring extremities

At birth, your baby had no idea that his arms and legs were attached to him. That's all changing now as he starts exploring his body. The parts he's discovering first are his hands and feet.

Encourage his interest by holding his arms above his head and asking "How big is baby?" or by reciting "This Little Piggy" and counting his toes. Try moving his hands in front of his face so he can see and feel them at the same time.

Babies have trouble regulating their body temperature, and their circulation isn't perfect just yet. Keep in mind that some of your baby's body heat escapes through his hands and feet. Make sure little toes and fingers are covered on cold days, particularly when the two of you go outside.

Baby talk

Your baby may gurgle, coo, grunt, and hum to express his feelings. A few babies also begin squealing and laughing. Be sure to coo and gurgle back, and talk to your baby face to face. He'll enjoy holding your gaze now.

If you have things to do, your baby will still enjoy hearing your voice from across the room. And don't feel silly about talking Motherese or baby talk — babies are particularly attuned to this high-pitched, drawn-out way of communicating that can actually teach your baby about the structure and function of language.

Narrate your day to your baby. He'll enjoy your conversation and may even start to chime in with his own comments.

Growth of 3 Weeks Old Baby

How your baby's growing:

Babies love and need to suck, so don't discourage it. In fact, you may have already discovered that a pacifier works wonders in helping your baby calm down. When the "binky" or your finger isn't available, your baby may even be able to find her thumb or fingers to soothe herself.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using a pacifier at nap time and bedtime, based on evidence that using a pacifier may reduce the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). That said, there's no need to reinsert the pacifier if it falls out once your baby's asleep.

Some moms talk about feeling an instantaneous, consuming love right from the beginning. That's become the prevailing image of what "bonding" is supposed to be like. But bonding isn't a single, magical delivery-room moment. For more than half of new mothers, feeling connected takes a bit longer — and for good reason.

Your life: Bonding

Birth, delivery, and recovery can be taxing physical experiences, especially if there are complications. If you've never spent a lot of time around babies, let alone been completely responsible for taking care of one, anxiety and worry about doing everything right can intrude too. Your relationship with your child is not so different from your other relationships — it can take time and many interactions for those feelings of attachment to develop and ripen.

So there's no need to feel guilty if you look at your long-awaited baby and feel like you're staring at a little stranger. In a sense she is. Give it time and eventually you won't be able to imagine life without her.

If after several weeks, however, feelings of aloofness or even resentment continue, you could be suffering from postpartum depression. Ten percent of new moms suffer from this form of depression, triggered largely by hormonal changes after delivery. In addition to prolonged feelings of ambivalence about motherhood, accompanying symptoms include insomnia, anxiety, changes in appetite, and thoughts of harming yourself or your baby.

Postpartum depression has nothing to do with your fitness as a mom and everything to do with biochemical changes you have little control over. Call your ob-gyn or midwife now — don't wait until your postpartum checkup. The sooner you seek help, the sooner you'll feel better.


3 Weeks Old Development

Belly baby

Be sure you're continuing to put your baby down on her stomach for "tummy time" when she's awake. Babies should sleep on their back, but they also need to spend time on their belly every day to strengthen their neck muscles, which help them push up, roll over, sit up, and crawl. Tummy time will also help your baby avoid developing a flat spot on her head from being on her back.

By the end of this week, your baby may lift her head briefly and possibly move it from side to side when she's lying on her stomach. Try putting your face in front of your baby's to encourage her to hold up her head to look at you. You can also roll up a towel or receiving blanket and put it under her chest to help get her started with her push-ups. Soon, her nervous system and muscle control will mature and her jerky movements will become more fluid.

Self-soothing

Babies love and need to suck, so don't discourage it. In fact, you may have discovered that a pacifier works wonders in helping your baby calm down.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using pacifiers at nap time and bedtime, based on evidence that using a pacifier may reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). When the binky or your finger isn't around, your baby may even be able to find her thumb or fingers to soothe herself.

Call it quits

If you or your partner smokes, you may want to put an end to your puffs. Secondhand smoke can be extremely dangerous for your baby — it weakens the lungs, makes babies more prone to ear infections, increases snoring and sleep-disordered breathing (a proven cause of health, behavior, and learning problems), and doubles the risk of SIDS. Even if you don't smoke when your baby's in the room, the harmful chemicals travel throughout your house in a matter of minutes.

NoseBleed From Pregnant women to Baby

Note: For Adriana who have this nosebleed during her sleep mostly early morning. My nose not functional well on my second pregnancy (Left nose always block & some time bleed during blow my nose).. Just some info & Question & Answer for you all.

How do I stop a nosebleed?

First, stay calm and comfort your baby. Nosebleeds are very common and are rarely a cause for concern.

Seat your baby in your lap and lean him forward slightly. Using a tissue or a clean, soft washcloth, gently pinch the soft part of his nose shut. Apply gentle, constant pressure for a full ten minutes. (Resist the temptation to peek earlier to see if the bleeding has stopped.)

During this time, you might distract your baby by singing to him, looking at a book together, or watching a video (depending on his age).

After ten minutes, release the pressure and see if the bleeding has stopped. If it hasn't, pinch your baby's nose closed for another ten minutes. (If your baby seems distressed when you close his nostrils, you can try plugging just the side that's bleeding, if his nose is only bleeding from one side.)

You can also apply a cold compress to the bridge of his nose. If that doesn't do the trick, give your baby's doctor a call.

Two important tips:

• Don't tilt your baby's head back or let him lie down. Either would allow the blood to run down his throat, which tastes bad and could make him vomit.

• Don't pack his nose with cotton during or after a nosebleed. Bleeding can start right back up again when you remove the cotton and disrupt any clots that have formed.

What will the doctor do if I can't get the nosebleed to stop?

The doctor will probably look in your baby's nose with a special light to find out where the bleeding is coming from. She may put silver nitrate on the spot that's bleeding, use nose drops to constrict the blood vessels, or put cotton soaked in medication inside your baby's nose. If the bleeding is severe, the doctor may need to pack your baby's nose with gauze, but this is rarely necessary.

If your baby suffered a blow to the head or nose, the doctor will want to examine him further and keep an eye on the injury as any swelling goes down. She'll do this to make sure that he hasn't broken his nose or fractured his skull.

What causes nosebleeds?

The nose is lined with many tiny blood vessels that bleed fairly easily — especially when they become dry or irritated.

Common causes of nosebleeds include colds, allergies, and sinus infections; low humidity; and trauma (like nose picking, a foreign object in the nose, or being hit in the nose). Sometimes an anatomical problem (like an abnormal structure or growth in the nose) can cause bleeding, as can certain drugs.

Are frequent nosebleeds something to worry about?

Usually not. Children often get nosebleeds, especially in the winter months, when the air is often dry and infections are common. You may even notice dried blood on your baby's bedding in the morning if he had a nosebleed overnight. Again, in most cases there's no reason to worry.

There are instances when you'll want to talk with the doctor about your baby's nosebleeds. Call the doctor if:

• your baby gets a nosebleed following a blow to the head or nose or after a fall

• you think your baby has lost a lot of blood. Nosebleeds often look worse than they are, but if you're concerned, talk with your baby's doctor.

• your baby has just started taking a new medicine and begins to get a lot of nosebleeds

• your baby is getting nosebleeds more frequently and has a chronically stuffy nose

• your baby has nosebleeds and he bruises easily or has bleeding from other areas, like his gums

How can I prevent nosebleeds?

If the air in your home is dry, use a humidifier in your baby's room at night. Discourage your baby from putting anything in his nose, and if he has a habit of putting his fingers in his nose, keep his fingernails trimmed so he's less likely to injure the lining of his nose.

Talk to your baby's doctor about appropriate treatment for allergies if you think they might be contributing to the problem. You might also ask the doctor about using saline nose drops to keep your baby's nose moist.

ToothPaste for Baby

I bought this from Panaga Dental Clinic and it cost you $12/- Brunei Ringgit. It best because it contain xylitol unlike normal toothpaste for baby bought at the supermarket.

The flavor and smell is like banana & the liquid color is look like transparent gel.

*Xylitol is a scientifically proven, natural, and safe sweetener that actually destroys dental caries which cause baby tooth decay.

Baby Milk Teeth Chart

10 to 12 Months

How much will my baby grow?

While all babies may grow at a different rate, the following indicates the average for boys and girls 10 to 12 months of age:

Weight:
average gain of about 13 ounces each month, birthweight is tripled at 1 year

Height:
average growth of about 1/2 inch each month

Head size:
average growth of about 1/4 inch each month

What can my baby do at this age?

As your baby continues to grow, you will notice new and exciting abilities that develop. While babies may progress at different rates, the following are some of the common milestones your child may reach in this age group:

pulls up to a standing position
can sit back down from standing position
cruises or walks around holding onto furniture
may stand next to furniture without holding on
may walk holding on to your finger or hand
may begin to take steps and walk on own
plays "ball" receiving and returning a rolled ball
able to pick up food and small objects with fingers
can feed self finger foods
drinks from cup with spout
can turn pages in a book, often several at a time
bangs objects together
imitates scribble
new teeth continue to erupt; may have four to six teeth by 1 year old
takes two naps a day and is able to sleep up to 12 hours at night without a feeding
make wake up at night looking for parents

What can my baby say?

Speech development is very exciting for parents as they watch their babies become social beings that can interact with others. While every baby develops speech at his/her own rate, the following are some of the common milestones in this age group:

says da-da and ma-ma and knows who these persons are
imitates sounds and some speech
may say two words other than ma-ma, da-da
imitates animal sounds in response to questions (i.e., "What does the cow say?")
simple gesture (i.e., shaking head "no")

What does my baby understand?

Babies at this age become much more aware of others as well as themselves. They are not yet confident that mother will return when she leaves. While children may progress at different rates, the following are some of the common milestones children may reach in this age group:

recognizes familiar objects and pictures in books, and may point to some objects when asked "Where is the …..?"
follows a one step command with the parent having to show the child how to do it
has preferences for people and toys, and may have a favorite toy or blanket
is curious and wants to explore
moves to music
drops objects on purpose for others to pick up
points and gestures for objects and actions
may begin to pretend simple activities, such as cleaning or drinking from cup

How does my baby interact with others?

Separation anxiety and fear of strangers are common at this age. Separation anxiety is anxiousness and fearfulness of being separated from a parent, whether or not the parent is actually leaving the presence of the child. However, this is an important part of the relationship with the parent. While every child is unique and will develop different personalities, the following are some of the common behavioral traits that may be present in your child:

fear and anxiety of strangers; may cling and clutch parents; cries when parent leaves
waves bye-bye
cries or shows emotions when told "no"

How to help increase your baby's learning and emotional security:

Consider the following as ways to foster the emotional security of your baby:

Walk away for short periods while your baby plays in a safe area to help teach him/her that you will come back each time.
Introduce your baby gradually to new people and things.
Look at picture books with your baby and talk about the pictures.
Give your baby finger foods and help him/her to use a spoon, but allow your baby to do it alone. Do not worry if your baby makes a mess, as experimentation is important.
Read stories to your baby every day.
When your baby asks for something by pointing, name the object as you give it to him/her.
Hold and cuddle your baby often.
Continue a bed time routine of cuddling, rocking, and soothing.
Respond to your baby if he/she awakens and cries at night, but avoid turning on the light or picking up or holding your baby. Limit your interactions to soothing talk and patting, telling your baby it is time for sleep.
Give your child toys that move (i.e., balls, cars).

7 to 9 Months

How much will my baby grow?

While all babies may grow at a different rate, the following indicates the average for boys and girls 7 to 9 months of age:

Weight:
average gain of 1 pound each month; boys usually weigh about 1/2 pound more than girls; two-and-a-half times the birthweight by 8 months

Height:
average growth of about 1/2 inch each month

Head size:
average growth of about 1/4 inch each month

What can my baby do at this age?

Babies are rapidly developing their physical abilities at this age. They become mobile for the first time and safety in the home becomes an important issue. While babies may progress at different rates, the following are some of the common milestones your baby may reach in this age group:

rolls over easily from front to back and back to front
sits leaning forward on hands at first, then unsupported
bounces when supported to stand
gets on hands and feet and rocks back and forth
may creep, scoot, crawl - backwards first, then forward
begins to pull up to stand
reaches for and grasps objects using whole hand
bangs toy on table
can hold an object in each hand
may hold a bottle
plays peek-a-boo
grasps object with thumb and finger by 8 to 9 months
begins teething, usually starting with the two center front teeth in the lower jaw, then the two center front teeth in the upper jaw
learns to drink from cup
puts everything into mouth
naps are usually twice, sometimes three times a day, for one to two hours each (on average)
may begin to awaken during the night and cry

What can my baby say?

It is very exciting for parents to watch their babies become social beings that can interact with others. While every baby develops speech at his/her own rate, the following are some of the common milestones in this age group:

makes two syllable sounds (ma-ma, da-da)
makes several different vowel sounds, especially "o" and "u"
repeats tones or sounds made by others

What does my baby understand?

A baby's awareness of people and surroundings increases during this time. While babies may progress at different rates, the following are some of the common milestones in this age group:

responds to own name and "no"
pays attention to conversation
appears to understand some words (i.e., eat)
prefers mother over others
enjoys seeing self in mirror
responds to changes in emotions of others
is afraid of strangers
shows interest in and dislike of foods
makes attention-getting sounds such as a cough or snort
begins to understand object permanence and can uncover a toy after seeing it covered
may follow one-step commands with a sign to demonstrate (i.e., "get the ball" while parent points to ball)

How to help increase your baby's development and emotional security:

Consider the following as ways to foster the emotional security of your baby:

Give your baby safe toys that make noises when shaken or hit.
Play in front of a mirror, calling your baby by name and pointing to your baby's reflection in the mirror.
When talking to your baby, pause and wait for him/her to respond just as when talking with an adult.
Play pat-a-cake and peek-a-boo.
Name common objects when shown to your baby.
Make a variety of sounds with your mouth and tone of voice.
Repeat and expand the sounds your baby makes, such as "ma-ma" when he/she says "ma."
Show picture books and read stories to your baby every day.
Give your baby toys with objects or knobs to push, poke, or turn.
Give your baby toys that stack or nest and show him/her how they work.
Build a tower with your baby and show him/her how to knock it down.
Establish a routine for bath and bedtime.
Offer a cup.

4 to 6 Months

How much will my baby grow?


While all babies may grow at a different rate, the following indicates the average for boys and girls 4 to 6 months of age:


Weight:

average gain of 1 to 1 1/4 pounds each month; by 6 months has doubled birthweight


Height:

average growth of 1/2 to 1 inch each month


Head size:

average growth of about 1/2 inch each month


What can my baby do at this age?


This age is very social and babies begin moving in much more purposeful ways. While babies may progress at different rates, the following are some of the common milestones your baby may reach in this age group:


grasp, Moro, root, and tonic neck reflexes (reflexes normally present in young infants) disappear
balances head well
sits with support, back is rounded
begins to support body with legs when held in standing position
rolls from back to front and front to back by 6 months
moves object from one hand to other
grabs feet and toes when lying on back
makes "swimming" motions with arms and legs when placed on abdomen
begins drooling (not always a sign of teething)
naps two to three times a day, for one to three hours each (on average)
begins to sleep longer at night (six to eight hours consistently)
has full color vision, able to see at longer distances


What can my baby say?

It is very exciting for parents to watch their babies become social beings that can interact with others. While every baby develops speech at his/her own rate, the following are some of the common milestones in this age group:

coos and gurgles when talked to, or in response to toys
babbles, imitates sounds
by 6 months, makes single syllable sounds (da, ma, ba)
laughs
squeals
blows bubbles or "raspberries"

What does my baby understand?

A baby's awareness of people and surroundings increases during this time and he/she may begin to interact with persons other than parents. While babies may progress at different rates, the following are some of the common milestones in this age group:

recognizes familiar things and people
may hold out arms to be picked up
begins to learn concept of object permanence (i.e., a partially hidden object under a blanket is still there)
may show displeasure when object or person goes away
may recognize his/her own name
may begin to understand "no"
begins to understand cause and effect (the sound a toy makes when it is dropped)

How to help increase your baby's development and emotional security:

Consider the following as ways to foster the emotional security of your baby:

Repeat sounds and smile when your baby makes sounds.
Laugh with your baby.
Talk to and imitate your baby during feeding, dressing, changing diapers, and bath time.
Spend time on the floor playing with your child every day.
Dance with your baby and do other rhythmic movements.
Introduce your baby to other children and parents.
Place safe toys near your baby to encourage reaching and grasping.
Encourage laughing and play by making funny faces or sounds or blowing on baby's belly and laughing.
Play peek-a-boo games to help develop object permanence, the understanding that objects are still present even though they cannot be seen.
Show your baby bright picture books and interesting objects.
Show your baby his/her reflection in a mirror.
Read books and stories to your baby, and point out pictures.
Take your baby outside to see new things and people.
Hold your baby for feedings and cuddle when he/she is awake.
Hold and comfort your baby when he/she is unhappy

1 to 3 months

How much will my baby grow?

While all babies may grow at a different rate, the following indicates the average for boys and girls 1 to 3 months of age:

Weight:
average gain of about 1 1/2 to 2 pounds each month

Height:
average growth of over 1 inch each month

Head size:
average growth of about 1/2 inch each month

What can my baby do at this age?

As your baby begins to grow, you will notice new and exciting abilities that develop. Babies at this age begin to relax the tight muscle tone of newborns and begin extending their arms and legs more. While babies may progress at different rates, the following are some of the common milestones your baby may reach in this age group:

most reflexes begin to disappear
neck muscles become stronger, head bobs then is held erect
turns head from side to side when placed on abdomen
brings hands or objects to mouth
looks at hands
follows light, faces, objects
listens to sounds
opens and closes hands
holds, then drops a rattle or other object
active leg movements

at the end of 3 months:
raises head and chest when placed on abdomen
beginning to reach hands to objects, may bat at hanging object with hands

What can my baby say?

It is very exciting for parents to watch their babies become social beings that can interact with others. While every baby develops speech at his/her own rate, the following are some of the common milestones in this age group:

begins to imitate some sounds (coos, vowel sounds)
cries become more purposeful and are different for hunger, fatigue, etc.

What does my baby understand?

A baby's understanding and awareness of the world around him/her increases during this time. While babies may progress at different rates, the following are some of the common milestones in this age group:

knows familiar voices, especially of mother and father
smiles in response to others
responds to social contact, may coo
moves arms, legs, body in rhythm with other's voice

How to help increase your baby's development and emotional security:

Young babies need the security of a parent's arms, and they understand the reassurance and comfort of your voice, tone, and emotions. Consider the following as ways to foster emotional security of your newborn:

Hold your baby face to face and make eye contact.
Talk to your baby with a soothing, animated voice throughout the day while dressing, bathing, feeding, or playing with your baby.
Sing to your baby.
Give your baby rattles and soft toys with different sounds.
Let your baby hear different sounds (i.e., wind chime, ticking clock, soft music, music box).
Show your baby bright pictures of black and white images.
Hang a mobile with bright objects above your baby.
Call your baby by name.
Hold your baby during feedings and provide comfort when he/she is distressed and cuddling when happy.

Newborn Baby Growth

How much will my baby grow?

In the first month of life, babies usually catch up and surpass their birthweight, then steadily continue to gain weight. A weight loss up to about 10 percent of birthweight is normal in the first two to three days after birth. However, the baby should have gained back to his/her birthweight by about the 10th or 11th day. While all babies may grow at a different rate, the following indicates the average for boys and girls up to 1 month of age:

Weight: after the first 2 weeks, should gain about 1 ounce each day

Average length at birth:
20 inches for boys
19 3/4 inches for girls

Average length at one month:
21 1/2 inches for boys
21 inches for girls

Head size:
increases to slightly less than 1 inch more than birth measurement by the end of the first month

What can my baby do at this age?

Although a newborn spends about 16 hours a day sleeping, the time a baby is awake can be busy. Much of a newborn's movements and activity are reflexes or involuntary - the baby does not purposefully make these movements. As the nervous system begins to mature, these reflexes give way to purposeful behaviors.

Reflexes in newborns include the following:

root reflex
This reflex occurs when the corner of the baby's mouth is stroked or touched. The baby will turn his/her head and opens his/her mouth to follow and "root" in the direction of the stroking. The root reflex helps the baby find the breast or bottle.

suck reflex
When the roof of the baby's mouth is touched with the breast or bottle nipple, the baby will begin to suck. This reflex does not begin until about the 32nd week of pregnancy and is not fully developed until about 36 weeks. Premature babies may have a weak or immature sucking ability, because they are born prior to the development of this reflex. Babies also have a hand-to-mouth reflex that accompanies rooting and sucking and may suck on their fingers or hands.

Moro reflex
The Moro reflex is often called a startle reflex because it usually occurs when a baby is startled by a loud sound or movement. In response to the sound, the baby throws back his/her head, throws out his/her arms and legs, cries, then pulls his/her arms and legs back in. Sometimes, a baby's own cries can startle him/her - initiating this reflex. The Moro reflex lasts until the baby is about 5 to 6 months old.

tonic neck reflex
When a baby's head is turned to one side, the arm on that side stretches out and the opposite arm bends up at the elbow. This is often called the "fencing" position. The tonic neck reflex lasts until the baby is about 6 to 7 months old.

grasp reflex
With the grasp reflex, stroking the palm of a baby's hand causes the baby to close his/her fingers in a grasp. The grasp reflex lasts only a couple of months and is stronger in premature babies.

Babinski reflex
With the Babinski reflex, when the sole of the foot is firmly stroked, the big toe bends back toward the top of the foot and the other toes fan out. This is a normal reflex until the child is about 2 years old.

step reflex
This reflex is also called the walking or dance reflex because a baby appears to take steps or dance when held upright with his/her feet touching a solid surface.

Newborn babies not only have unique reflexes, but also have a number of physical characteristics and behaviors that include the following:

head sags when lifted up, needs to be supported
turns head from side to side when lying on his stomach
eyes are sometimes uncoordinated, may look cross-eyed
initially fixes eyes on a face or light then begins to follow a moving object
beginning to lift head when lying on stomach
jerky, erratic movements
moves hands to mouth

What can my baby say?

At this early age, crying is a baby's only form of communication. At first, all of a baby's cries sound similar, but parents soon recognize different types of cries for hunger, discomfort, frustration, fatigue, and even loneliness. Sometimes, a baby's cries can easily be answered with a feeding, or a diaper change. Other times, the cause of the crying can be a mystery and crying stops as quickly as it begins. Regardless of the cause, responding to your baby's cries with a comforting touch and words are essential in helping your baby learn to trust you and rely on you for love and security. You may also use warmth and rocking movements to comfort your baby.

What does my baby understand?

You may find that your baby responds in many ways, including the following:
startles at loud noises
looks at faces and pictures with contrasting black and white images
gives attention to voices, may turn to a sound
hints of a smile, especially during sleep

How to help increase your baby's development and emotional security:

Young babies need the security of a parent's arms, and they understand the reassurance and comfort of your voice, tone, and emotions. Consider the following as ways to foster the emotional security of your newborn:

Hold your baby face to face.
Talk in a soothing tone and let your baby hear your affectionate and friendly voice.
Sing to your baby.
Walk with your baby in a sling, carrier, or a stroller.
Swaddle your baby in a soft blanket to help him/her feel secure and prevent startling by the baby's own movements.
Rock your baby in a rhythmic, gentle motion.
Respond quickly to your baby's cries.