NOTE: This information is meant to be used as a guideline only, all children develop at their own rate, yours may be faster or slower than this schedule.
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EXPECTED TASKS
* reflexes are seen in this age group, including sucking and swallowing, grasping with hands and feet, automatic stepping and startle response to noise or movement
* follows objects with eyes, especially faces - can see best at about 8-18 inches away, the perfect distance while feeding
* gradually starts to hold head up
* appearance of smiling at 3-8 weeks
NEEDS
* comfort, comfort, comfort - this age of child cries when distressed and out of no
naughtiness. Hold, rock and cuddle her, you cannot "spoil" her. Early life is full of small discomforts, many of which disappear around 6 weeks. Do not despair if everything seems fine, but baby continues to cry, this happens sometime and the crying won't hurt her.
* closeness during feeding - always hold the baby when using a bottle, do not try to prop it up
* when held upright baby needs help supporting his head
TOYS AND ACTIVITIES
* mobile - over crib or change table should be 8-16 inches from baby
- bold, bright colors, simple designs, faces are preferred
- can be home made inexpensively
* other bright colored objects where baby can see them, tape pictures near crib and change table
* most importantly, rock, hold, cuddle talk and sing to baby
SLEEP
Sleep is very unpredictable at this age. Many infants seem to have day and night mixed up, they sleep all day and are awake at night. It is very hard to force this pattern to change, but it will always correct itself in time, just some patience is required. Infants need night feedings, especially if breast fed, so don't expect a full night sleep for awhile.
Ted Humphry, M.D.
822-2441