MONTH 3
Please
keep in mind, that all babies are unique. Whether
your baby reaches milestones early or late, she
has her own developmental path to follow. The dividing
lines between these months are very fuzzy. If you
have any concerns or questions about your baby’s
development, please check with her health care provider.
Settled
Many believe the end of the third month is a milestone
for parents. Often baby has settled, meaning she has
developed a routine of sleep, feeding and play. Baby
is now very clear about her cues. You will probably
find yourself telling people all about how your baby’s
particular habits, likes and dislikes. This knowledge
is important for all parents, including those thinking
about childcare.
The Transition
Clear
communication with the childcare provider is very
important. You are the expert of your baby. Establishing
and maintaining a predictable schedule is especially
important for a baby in child care. Write down what
you know about your baby’s schedule including sleeping
and feeding patterns.
Does
baby like to be sung a certain lullaby when she is
falling asleep? Does she only drink breast milk or
a particular formula? Does she like to go on a morning
walk? Does she like to be held a certain way? Does
she need to be burped right after she eats?
Explain
these predictable parts of baby’s day for the sitter
or nanny to continue. With such a routine, when babies
know what happens next, they feel secure and safe.
Having this security as a foundation is important
for baby to feel confident so she can stretch out,
explore her world and learn.
I know you!
At
this age, babies can start to recognize people and
special objects. Some babies have a specific blanket
or soft toy that they regard as a lovie. If so, bring
it to the childcare setting for her to hold when she
needs to be comforted. You may even want to leave
a photograph of mommy and daddy and any other special
members of the family, such as a family pet, for baby
to hold.
When
baby misses mommy during the day, having a photo to
gaze at can be very comforting. She may not make the
connection yet, that the smiling woman in the photo
is mommy, but she will soon. These tools are also
helpful for the childcare provider when she needs
to comfort baby.
Growing Stronger
You
may notice baby being able to hold up her head steadily
when upright. She also, when on her tummy, may be
holding herself up at 45 degrees, some even at 90
degrees. Try holding her upright on her feet. Does
she bear some weight for fleeting moments on her feet?
While you are playing with baby, put in her in different
positions -- supporting her while sitting, standing
against your chest, on her back under a dangly set
of toys and on her tummy. There may be more positions
that you know she likes. Each one gives her a different
vantage point on her world while helping her grow
and develop strong muscles.
The Real First Toys
A
wonderful discovery for baby this month are two very
practical toys -- her hands. They move, can be easily
seen, have funny little fingers and easily fit in
her mouth. Baby will start out playing with her hands
by moving them, wiggling her fingers and watching
them intently.
Bringing
both hands to her midline and clasping is another
discovery. Soon after, baby realizes her hands can
be used as a tool. She can use them to touch interesting
objects. When mom and dad show her a toy, she will
discover that she can hold onto it with her hands.
She may move her hand while holding a rattle and hear
the distinctive sound. She may look at you as if to
say, "Did I do that?"
This
is the beginning of cause and effect. She is developing
that part of the brain where she learns that she can
make things happen. She will then probably try to
put the rattle in her mouth. This is all part of exploring
and learning what she can do.
Mirror,
Mirror
For
a real treat, prop baby in front of the mirror. Some
babies lie on the backs or tummies and gaze for many
minutes at their reflection. Others squeal and laugh.
Mirrors are a wonderful toy for babies to learn about
themselves. You can support her by talking to her
about what is seen. Point out her nose, head, eyes.
She will love the attention and will surely smile
back at her beautiful face.
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