Congratulations on becoming a parent! Your little bundle of joy is now in the world and it’s time to watch them grow and develop. The first three months of a baby’s life are filled with milestones, both big and small. We’ve put together a guide to help you understand what to expect during 1 to 3 month old baby development.
Table of Contents
Physical Development
During the first month, your baby’s movements may be jerky and uncoordinated. By the second month, they will begin to move their arms and legs with more control. Tummy time is important for building neck and upper body strength, but always supervise your baby during this activity. By the third month, they may be rolling over or attempting to do so.
Your baby’s vision will also improve during this time. They will begin to focus on objects and track them with their eyes. They may also start to recognize faces and smile in response to familiar faces. Hearing will also improve and they may turn their head towards sounds.
Cognitive Development
During the first month, your baby will begin to learn cause and effect. They may start to realize that if they cry, someone will come to comfort them. By the second month, they will start to explore objects by reaching for them and bringing them to their mouth. They may also begin to mimic facial expressions.
During the third month, your baby’s memory will begin to develop. They may start to recognize familiar faces and objects and react accordingly. They may also begin to anticipate certain events, such as feeding time.
Emotional Development
Babies are born with emotions and during the first three months, they will develop an emotional bond with their caregivers. They will seek out comfort when they are upset or frightened and will begin to show affection towards familiar faces. Your baby may also start to display different facial expressions to communicate their emotions, such as a smile or a frown.
Social Development
During the first month, your baby will prefer human faces over other objects. They may also start to imitate facial expressions in an attempt to communicate. By the second month, they will begin to coo and make other vocalizations to get attention. During the third month, they may start to recognize familiar faces and smile in response to them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When should my baby start sleeping through the night?
A: Every baby’s sleep patterns are different, but some babies may start sleeping through the night between two and four months old.
Q: How many wet diapers should my baby have in a day?
A: Your baby should have at least six wet diapers a day during the first month. This number may decrease as they get older.
Q: Should I be worried if my baby’s head is not perfectly round?
A: It is common for a baby’s head to be slightly misshapen due to the pressure of delivery. However, if the shape does not improve or worsens, consult your pediatrician.
Q: When should I start introducing solid foods?
A: Most experts recommend waiting until your baby is at least four to six months old before introducing solid foods.
Q: How can I help my baby develop their motor skills?
A: Encourage tummy time and provide your baby with toys that encourage grasping and reaching. Always supervise your baby during these activities.
Watching your baby grow and develop is an exciting journey. Remember to enjoy the little moments and cherish this special time with your little one. If you have any concerns about your baby’s development, don’t hesitate to consult your pediatrician.