Growth and Development1st monthBaby will be rapidly adjusting to outside world, will spend most of the time being fed or sleeping. Baby won't be able to extend his arms and feet fully yet, but this is perfectly normal. Baby will require 8-15 feeds per day and will sleep an average of 16-17 hours per day
2nd monthThis is the month where parents get to see their babies smile. It's going to be very unlikely for a baby to be sleeping through the night, as they will be sleeping for longer periods throughout the day
3rd monthAs the baby's head and neck muscles become stronger, then they will gradually be able to roll over. The baby will begin babbling during this month and it is important that parents try talking to their babies to help develop language skills
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Baby
Importance of breast feeding
Good foods to feed your baby
Bad foods to feed your baby
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4th month
The baby will become more aware of his surroundings, but will also be more distracted by what's going on, so feeding can become a tad harder. Their vision will develop, and they'll be able to distinguish between shades of the same color, such as green and teal. The baby's stomach will grow bigger, and they will be able to take in more during feeds. Thus, they won't require as much feeds
5th month
The baby will become better at expressing themselves. They will often show expression by giving hugs and kisses, and also by waving their arms to symbolize wanting to get picked up. The baby will watch her parents more intently when they speak, and this will help them develop their language skills. The baby's development is progressing, and they might be able to sit without assistance of parents, even if it's just for a moment.
6th month
The baby will be more keen on solids, and might be able to take their first bites during this month. The baby might also be able to roll over during this time also, and this will be a stepping stone in becoming more mobile. The baby's hand control will be better, and they will be able to pull objects towards them. Your baby will desire attention, and will be prone to initiate it with the common act of crying.
7th month
The baby will get better at using their hands, and they might be able to use a cup and drink from it with their developing hand skills. They will also be able to clap during this time, and may do it when happy. Babies also might drool during this month, and their first teeth might be cut also. The baby will also be more able to support some of her weight on her legs if she can hold on to something. The baby might be able to start teething during this time. Once they do, you can expect them to gnaw away on objects
8th month
Many babies will be able to crawl during this time, and many bumps and falls will occur with the baby becoming more mobile. The baby will start to become shy of strangers, commonly when they are with a babysitter. Separation anxiety will begin, with the baby disliking every moment of being away from it's parents. The baby's emotions will become more obvious, and they might be able to develop a pinch or grasp with their hands. Their sight will improve and they will be able to recognize familiar faces and objects.
9th month
Playtime will become essential for your baby, and it would be great for them to play with stacks and games that will boost their coordination. The baby will understand the parents' tone more than the words that are actually being said, but this is only a stepping stone. The baby's separation anxiety might be at it's peak during this time, and it's normal for a baby to be extremely attached to it's parent.
10th month
The baby's babbles will sound more like words during this month. When he comes close to reaching a word like saying "ock" when referring to "sock", then it's best for their parents to correct them so they'll develop the pronunciation of that word. If the baby has been crawling, then they might be scooting around the house during this time effortlessly. The baby's personality will be emerging now, and they will start developing a mind of their own. It's important that parents try to talk to their baby during this time, as it will help the baby develop their language.
11th month
The baby will understand more simple instructions during this time, such as the words "no" and "stop". Babies will also be more attracted to colorful objects during this time. This would be an ideal time for parents to start reading to their babies, as it would really help their understanding skills and also their language. Their growing independence will become more apparent, as they learn to stand, squat, and sit.
12th month
The baby will be walking around now, if they aren't already. Communication may be convenient now, as they might be able to point to their nose when you ask them to. As their understanding grows, the parent will be able to teach manners. The baby will probably think it's fun to knock things down, and it might become a nuisance in the house. As your baby nears his 1st birthday, he will resist taking naps. However, nap time will still be important in his development. The more times your baby hears a word, the quicker they will remember it, and they will eventually be able to say it. By saying that, it's evident that it's important for parents to continue talking to their baby during this time.
Citations
"BabyCenter | Advice and Support on Pregnancy and Parenting." BabyCenter. N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Dec. 2014. <http://www.babycenter.com/>.
"Why Is Breastfeeding Important for Your Baby?" Why Is Breastfeeding Important for Your Baby? N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Dec. 2014. <https://www.health.ny.gov/prevention/nutrition/wic/breastfeeding/importance.htm>.
"Why Is Breastfeeding Important for Your Baby?" Why Is Breastfeeding Important for Your Baby? N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Dec. 2014. <https://www.health.ny.gov/prevention/nutrition/wic/breastfeeding/importance.htm>.
