Source: bing.comCongratulations on your little bundle of joy! As a new parent, it’s essential to understand the development stages of your newborn baby. Babies develop at their own pace, but there are some general milestones you can expect during their first year of life.
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First Stage: The Neonatal Stage
The neonatal stage starts from birth to one month old. During this stage, your baby will be adjusting to life outside the womb. As a newborn, they are unable to support their head, and their eyesight is limited. They can distinguish light from dark and can see objects at a distance of 8-12 inches.
Your baby should start to gain weight during the first week of life, but it is normal for babies to lose up to 7% of their birth weight. They will also sleep for most of the day, feeding every 2-3 hours. Your baby will start to recognize your voice, smell and touch during the neonatal stage.
Second Stage: The Infant Stage
The infant stage starts from one month to 12 months old. During this stage, your baby will start to grow and develop rapidly. They will start to smile, coo, and laugh. You will also notice your baby’s head control improving, and they will start to roll over.
At around four months old, your baby will start to grasp objects, and their hand-eye coordination will improve. They will also begin to sit up without support and may start to crawl. By six months old, your baby will start to babble and may say their first words. They will also start to pull themselves up to stand while holding onto furniture.
By nine months old, your baby will start to crawl, pull themselves to stand and may even take their first steps. They will also start to feed themselves finger foods and will be able to hold a sippy cup. By the end of the infant stage, your baby will have developed their own personality and will start to understand simple commands.
Third Stage: The Toddler Stage
The toddler stage starts from 12 months to three years old. During this stage, your baby will continue to develop their independence and personality. They will start to walk, run and climb. They will also start to use simple sentences and will be able to follow two-step commands.
Your toddler will become more social during this stage and will start to interact with other children. They will also start to understand emotions and will be able to express their own feelings. By three years old, your toddler will have developed their fine and gross motor skills and will be able to dress themselves and use utensils to eat.
It’s important to remember that every baby is different and will develop at their own pace. Some babies may reach milestones earlier or later than others. However, if you have any concerns about your baby’s development, it’s always best to speak to your healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When should my baby start to crawl?
Most babies start to crawl between six and ten months old. However, some babies may start earlier or later.
2. When should my baby be able to say their first words?
Most babies say their first words between six and twelve months old. However, some babies may start talking earlier or later.
3. When should my baby start to walk?
Most babies start to walk between nine and twelve months old. However, some babies may start walking earlier or later.
4. Why is my baby not reaching their milestones?
Babies develop at their own pace, but if you have any concerns about your baby’s development, it’s always best to speak to your healthcare provider.
5. What can I do to help my baby’s development?
There are many ways you can help your baby’s development, such as providing a safe and stimulating environment, talking and reading to your baby, and giving them plenty of love and affection.