BABY MILESTONES
Your two to three-month-old baby is learning fast, and you'll be amazed at how accomplished he can become in quite a short time. During this period of time he will reward you with lovely smiles – real ones, not just windy grimaces!
It's a joy to see happiness on your baby's face and is very affirming of your own parenting skills, too.
The following milestones usually occur during this 9-12 week period – but don't be alarmed if your baby isn't 'keeping up' with all of these.
Have a word with your health visitor or GP in case there is a reason for developmental delay, but the chances are your baby is just going at his or her own pace.
SEE ALSO:
Lesbian Couple's Side-By-Side Pregnancy Photo Goes Viral For All The Right Reasons
All Children Under-Four May Be Given Free Vitamins To Prevent Rickets
Mobility and motor skills
• You may notice your baby lifting her head and holding it up when she's on her tummy. She won't be able to hold this position for long (who'd want to?) but it'll show that she's interested in her surroundings and that her neck muscles are becoming stronger.
• Your baby may even bring her chest and shoulders off the floor when she's on her tummy! This is a sign that her back and spine are gaining in strength, too.
• Those little arms and legs will be getting plenty of muscle-strengthening exercise as your baby kicks out and waves about.
• If you touch your baby's palm with your fingertip, you'll probably find she grasps your finger firmly in return.
Sociability and senses
• Your baby will enjoy the sound of your voice and will seem to listen intently. Try singing or talking in a sing-song voice to keep her amused.
• Smiles will be frequent and lovely.
• Your baby will start cooing, babbling and chuckling – another magical sound. This is her language, so respond whenever you hear her, then wait and see if she replies!
• As visual muscle strength and coordination increases your baby will be able to follow moving objects with her eyes: the best distance to dangle and move toys around in front of her is around 20cm/8in from her face.
• Keep up the face-pulling games, as your baby will enjoy copying you.
Check with your health visitor or GP if:
• Your baby makes no attempts to follow a nearby moving object with her eyes or continues to squint after 12 weeks.
• Doesn't smile.
• Doesn't hold her head up, even for short periods.
• Doesn't grasp a finger when her palm is stroked.