What an exciting change! You are a mom of a newborn. If you’re a first-time mom, then this is a particularly interesting time; both scary and exhilarating at the same time. During the first 3 months of life, newborns are starting to learn about comfort and security in their new world. Be sure to respond to their signals and provide lots of love, cuddles, and comfort; this is how they will learn to develop a trusting bond and attachment with you.

What to expect from me?

Physical Development

Hey, mommy look! I can move!

What can I do? developmental domain

• I can stretch my legs out and kick when laying on my back or stomach.

• I can open and shut my hands, even if loosely.

• I can bring my hand to my mouth.

What can you do to support my development?

• While I’m laying on my back, try to play games that help strengthen my neck muscles; move a toy back and forth above me to promote eye and head movement.

• Remember, I have very little neck muscle control, be sure to support my neck when lifting/laying me down.

Feeding & more

I’m learning to feed!

What can I do?

• I’m learning to suckle, please be patient with me. I will also move to bottle or breast when I’m hungry.

What can you do to support my development?

• Look into my eyes and talk softly as I nurse. Remember satisfying hunger helps me feel calm.

Communication & Speech Development

I can hear and try to communicate with you

What can I do?

• I may get startled when hearing a loud or sudden sound.

• I will make cooing and gurgling sounds. I love it when you talk back me.

What can you do to support my development?

• Always make eye contact with me. Sing and talk to me.

• Be attentive to the cues I send; if I’m alert and awake, play with me. If I turn my head away when you talk or sing, I may be telling you I need some quiet time

Social & Emotional Development

I’ll cry…A lot!

What can I do?

• When I cry, I’m usually trying to tell you something. I may be hungry or cold or in pain.

• When I cry, I trust that you will comfort me. This is important as it will teach me to comfort myself in a few months.

What can you do to support my development?

• Comfort your baby when she’s crying remember you can’t spoil her at this age. Soothing crying infants is important for attachment.

• Hold me! Skin to skin contact is very important during this stage.

Act Early

Act early by talking to your baby’s doctor if you notice that by 3 months, your baby:

• Doesn’t respond to loud sounds

• Doesn’t notice his/her hands by 2 months

• Doesn’t follow moving objects with his/her eyes by 2 to 3 months

• Doesn’t smile at people by 3 months

It’s important to know that development is a continuous process and babies develop at different rates. We are offering this section so that it gives you a chance to discuss any concerns you may have with your pediatrician or child health care professional.