What to Expect–Your Baby’s First Three Months
As you get into the groove of being a mamma, your baby, too, gets used to his new life and becomes more and more comfortable in his new surroundings.
After the first few weeks, he will begin to look into your eyes and hold your gaze, whereas before, he would look toward your eyebrow or chin. Somewhere around the fifth week, you will see baby’s first smile. It’s the best–that sweet all-gum grin–you couldn’t ask for much more!
As your baby continues to pass through his first few months, he will begin to coo and gurgle, and he will make increased efforts at interaction. He enjoys learning about his world, and as he stays awake for longer periods of time, you can take the opportunity to show and tell him about all the things there are to see and hear. Play music to him, read him a story or a poem, or tell him about the flowers in the yard. Whatever you are doing, your baby will find it interesting. Don’t feel silly giving your baby a “play by play” of the day. He loves it, and hearing and watching others talk is how he will begin to learn about language. It is particularly easy to include him in all the events of the day when you wear him in a sling or other type of baby carrier. Babywearing can help keep you and your baby close as you move through your day, while still allowing you to have your hands free.
While it is important to always remember to put your baby to bed on his back, some tummy time is also important for all babies. This time spent on their bellies helps them progress with muscle development and control. If your baby gets upset when you put him on his tummy, try to prop him up a bit with a small blanket under his chest. He will get used to it, but if it really upsets him, just try it for short periods each day, until he begins to feel more at ease in this new position.
By around 3 months, your baby will begin to show his recognition of you. He has been able to recognize you since a few weeks after birth, but now he’ll smile or wiggle in excitement when he catches sight of you. He also has begun to exhibit a preference for you and your partner over others and will search for you if you leave, then become excited when he sees you return to him.
By the end of these first 3 months, your baby will be very different than when he was first born. If you have had problems with colic, it is likely passed (or will pass soon). In addition, he will have grown to near double his birth weight! Just remember, it is true what everyone tells you–babies and children grow and change so quickly, make sure to soak up every minute!