Table of Contents
Physical Development
At two months old, your baby is gaining weight and growing taller. They should have gained around 1.5 to 2 pounds since birth and grown an inch or two taller. Their head is also growing and becoming more proportionate to their body. Your baby is becoming more active and can lift their head for short periods of time. They also have stronger leg and arm movements.
Cognitive Development
Your baby is becoming more responsive to the world around them. They can recognize familiar faces and voices, and may even start to smile in response to them. Your baby is also beginning to understand cause and effect, such as realizing that crying leads to getting food or a diaper change.
Social and Emotional Development
Your baby is developing a strong bond with you and other caregivers. They may start to cry when you leave the room or quiet down when you hold them. Your baby is also learning to express their emotions, such as happiness or frustration, through facial expressions and sounds.
Sleep and Feeding
Your baby is still sleeping a lot, but may start to sleep for longer stretches at night. They may also start to have more predictable feeding schedules and consume more milk or formula during each feeding.
Milestones to Look For
By two months old, your baby should:
- Lift their head briefly when on their stomach
- Make cooing and gurgling sounds
- Follow objects with their eyes
- Smile in response to familiar faces and voices
- React to loud noises
Remember, every baby develops at their own pace. If you have concerns about your baby’s development, talk to your pediatrician.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I be feeding my two-month-old?
A: Your baby may be consuming around 4-6 ounces of milk or formula every 3-4 hours during the day, and may have one longer stretch of sleep (4-7 hours) at night.
Q: How can I help my baby reach their developmental milestones?
A: You can help your baby develop by providing plenty of tummy time, talking and singing to them, and providing age-appropriate toys and activities to encourage their physical and cognitive development.
Q: What should I do if I am concerned about my baby’s development?
A: Talk to your pediatrician if you have concerns about your baby’s development. They can provide guidance and recommend any necessary interventions or therapies.
Q: When should I start sleep training my baby?
A: It’s generally recommended to wait until your baby is at least 4-6 months old before starting any formal sleep training. However, every baby is different and your pediatrician can provide personalized recommendations based on your baby’s needs and development.
Q: How can I bond with my two-month-old?
A: You can bond with your baby by holding them, talking or singing to them, playing with them, and responding to their cues and needs. Skin-to-skin contact can also promote bonding.