EXPECTED TASKS
* increased curiosity but limited ability to move around
* sitting well now which frees hands for play
* everything goes in the mouth, this is normal and important for development, but requires
that objects be non-toxic, clean, and larger than 1 1/2 inches
* starting to understand cause and effect
* still drops objects, but now looks to see where they are
* transfers objects from one hand to the other
* starts feeding self crackers
* stranger and separation anxiety are normal - baby becomes very clingy
* developing sense of humor
* teething often starts about this time - baby will drool, chew energetically on everything
and may be fussy
ACTIVITIES AND TOYS
* time to safety-proof the house in preparation for crawling:
- lock cupboards and drawers with dangerous items
- electric cords out of reach, outlets covered
- plants out of reach
- make small objects inaccessible, no toys with small parts
- gates over stairways
* talk to baby, echo his babbling, tell him names of objects
* brightly colored, easily cleaned objects for handling and mouthing
* play pat-a-cake, peek-a-boo, so big, tickle games
* talk about and encourage body exploration
* walker or jumper for brief periods
* provide objects of various texture for baby to handle
* playpen can be a safe area to play
* time to start using a highchair for meals
* provide chilled rings, cool damp clothes or tubber toys for teething
SLEEP
* Have a night routine for sleep preparation
* If night awakenings continue, picking up baby should be discouraged, simply reassure
baby by talking to him and leave the room after a short time. He will cry the first few
times, but will soon learn to put himself to sleep.
* Avoid bottles in bed.
Ted Humphry, M.D.
822-2441