Here’s an overview of the different development stages, and when your baby should roughly be achieving aspects of them. Remember – this is simply guidance, and not a set-in stone timeline of exactly when your baby will develop certain skills.
Physical Development
Physical Development is where your baby will begin to build their muscles and motor skills, that help them become more in control of their bodies and movements during the early years.
1 Month – In their first month, babies will often remain curled in the foetal position, with closed fists and occasional movements of their head from side to side, with other movements mainly controlled by their reflexes. They won’t have the ability to support themselves yet, so they’ll rely on you to keep their head upright when being held and fed.
3 Months – This stage is where muscle will begin to develop, and you’ll start to notice your baby will begin to unclench their fists, begin kicking their feet, and stretch and move around more in general. They may also be able to hold their head up a little during tummy time, but still require your help.
6 Months – Some begin to start rocking themselves in anticipation for crawling at 6 months old, and will continue to develop their strength by holding onto more items and toys. They should also be able to roll over and sit up with some help from parents.
9 Months – Sitting up alone and shuffling along may begin to happen at the 9-month stage, with some even attempting to stand using furniture or parental guidance. Picking things up will also be easier.
12 Months – If your baby started standing at 9 months, they should be in the swing of things by now, but others may only just start doing this at a year old. Their motor skills will have developed over this year to allow them to crawl quickly or even take their first steps.
Sensory Development
This is where your baby will develop the five senses – smell, taste, touch, vision and hearing. For babies, this will also include their nervous system’s response, helping them with behavioural and motor development and their responses.
1 Month – Hearing will be fully developed at this stage, so your baby will mostly be getting used to the sound of your voice, and the voices of your loved ones too. They’ll be able to focus on objects 8-12 inches away, and black and white or contrasting images will be easier for them to see.
3 Months – Vision is the main improvement at 3 months, as they’ll start to recognise people and objects moving around, especially their parents and frequent, known visitors. They’ll also be able to see further in the distance, and turn their heads when they hear sounds. Toys that make noise are also great to purchase for this stage, especially ones that can be held, as this doesn’t just aid their sensory development but also gives them an element of fun too!
6 Months – At 6 months, taste will form a huge art of your baby’s life as they’re introduced to different foods. This is also where you need to listen out for their language skills, as often the 6–7-month stage is where they’ll say their first words!
9 Months – At this age, you’ll probably notice your baby starts making a lot of noise, with banging toys or hands against objects becoming a fun activity for them. Babies at this age will learn object permanence, allowing them to recognise people and things still exist even when they can’t be seen. Storybooks will also become much more interesting, as they’ll start to engage with the images and colours on the pages.
12 Months – Your baby may begin to speak more at this age, even if those words aren’t 100% coherent, as they try to imitate your voice and words. They’ll continue trying to make noise with objects, but will also start to understand simple requests to do things like to pick up toys, or to sit still.
Emotional Development
Emotional development is where your baby learns how to respond to different stimuli, and express themselves. It’s where you’ll start noticing their personality shine through! They’ll gradually start to become a little more social and learn more about their emotions.
1 Month – In the times your baby is awake, they may make some small noises in response to their care or your communication with them, but they won’t be able to talk. Their main way of expressing themselves is through crying – so keep an eye on them so you can assess what they need.
3 Months – At three months, you’ll start to notice that your little one will start to make different facial expressions, and may start cooing when you speak to them. There’s also potential you’ll see them begin to smile at this stage too.
6 Months – Interaction with your baby is extremely important from birth, but by now they’ll start interacting back with you – and you’ll be able to see from their expressions and the sounds they make how they’re feeling. They’ll also recognise words you frequently use with them such as ‘bath’.
9 Months – Attachment will develop at 9 months old, and you’ll notice they’ll probably get upset even if you put them down for a few minutes. This however can be helped by a special toy or blanket that can become a comforting companion when they can’t cling onto you.
12 Months – One-year olds will often be reserved around strangers or visitors, and may get upset if you leave them. Independence will be a big thing for them, but they’ll still try and get your attention when they want you around. They’ll start to enjoy social activities and games much more too, such as peek-a-boo, as this will bring them a lot of joy.
All babies develop at different paces and there isn’t a set timetable for when they should be able to do something – it’s not a competition with other parents whose child is developing quicker, and the health and safety of your baby is the upmost priority, so don’t get frustrated if they seem to be falling behind a little. Patience is key with development, and if you have any concerns about your little one, make sure to mention it to a medical professional who’ll be able to help with your worries. Recording their milestones is great to help you keep track not just of these stages, but also for you to look back on in years to come, so you’ll always remember those special moments such as their first words.
]]>There are so many baby products on the market that knowing which ones are important to get in before you bring your little one home can be quite difficult – especially when you’re first-time parents.
Here’s a guide to the Baby Essentials you need as you prepare for your new arrival.
Newborn Clothing
Clothing is something you probably already have on your checklist, but you’ll end up changing your baby’s clothes more than you think, so it’s imperative you have enough available for when you need to put them in something fresh and clean. Generally, 10 bodysuits and 10 sleepsuits are enough to get you by, along with t-shirts, trousers, jumpers and dresses should you need to use them. Newborns grow so quickly over just a few months so don’t overload their wardrobe with things they may never get round to wearing, but stay on top of this side of things so you’re always prepared if they need a change.
Clothing also depends on the time of year you’re expecting your baby – late Spring and Summer newborns may not need the chunky knits and cozy cardigans that winter and autumn babies need – instead, they’ll need something that will still keep them warm, but also cool in hot temperatures. Sun hats are also important for protecting your baby’s delicate skin and eyes from harsh sunrays.
Travel
If you’re taking your baby home from hospital, you’ll need a safe and secure way to travel with them. Rear-facing car seats for babies and infants are a legal requirement until they are over 15 months old, so make sure you have one ready and are used to fitting it inside your car ahead of birth.
Think about your lifestyle when it comes to pushchairs and prams – if you’re going to be travelling a lot, a travel system would be ideal, but if you’re staying in more often, a standard pram or pushchair could suffice. Some prams have age-limits, so make sure the one you purchase can be fully reclined for newborns and isn’t only suitable for babies 6 months old and over.
Other things you should consider include a changing bag for all the essentials you’ll need when you’re out of the house, and a carrier so you can keep your little one close whilst you’re on the go.
Sleep
NHS guidance suggests that your baby should sleep in the same room as you for the first 6 months, so a bedside crib will help to keep them safe in the night whilst also close to you, and will be helpful for the night feeds and times you need to comfort them when they wake up in the early hours.
Most parents will also have a cot already prepared to move their baby into when they’re old enough, and will stock up on baby bedding such as cot sheets and blankets for their transition from the crib. Heavy bedding such as pillows and duvets are not recommended before 12 months old, so baby blankets are the way to go to keep your newborn warm and cozy without risk. Swaddles are also often used by parents who want to cocoon their baby in those early months to give them that same feeling they had in the womb, and can help to prevent them scratching their skin during sleep.
Baby monitors and cameras are helpful for when you put your baby down to sleep, but have other things to do in the meantime. It allows you to stay aware of your newborn if they awake whilst you’re away from them.
Health
Baby nail clippers and files help to keep their nails short, preventing them scratching themselves or you. Nail clippers for babies are softer and smaller than ones made for adults, making them safe for your little one.
Baby brushes help to remove cradle cap, and aren’t harsh on their scalp, helping to encourage hair growth whilst alleviating symptoms of cradle cap in a gentle manner to protect their sensitive skin.
Dummies are also good items to stock up on, but shouldn’t be used with a newborn until they establish a feeding routine – this usually takes around 6 weeks, and shouldn’t be used for longer than 12 months – the recommended time to stop using a dummy is between 6 months and a year.
When it comes to feeding, getting formula and bottles in near the time of birth gives you an instant supply when you need it as soon as you get home, so you won’t need to rush out to the shops. If you’re breastfeeding, then muslins can help to keep them comfy and add a bit of privacy when you desire it. Muslins can also double up as blankets, on top of changing mats, in pushchairs, after baths and to keep you and your baby clean after feeding – they’re handy items to have available.
Ensuring you’re prepared before you give birth will help to reduce the stress and pressure that a newborn can bring, and lets you have everything ready to use at your fingertips. Start investing in these items ahead of your new arrival and you can rest assured you’re 100% ready for them to come into the world!
]]>Bringing a new life into the world is an exciting, special time, but it comes with a lot of responsibilities. Your baby depends fully on your care, and sometimes looking after your little one can be a lot of pressure – especially when life starts returning to normal.
If you’re expecting a baby, or if you’ve just welcomed a new bundle of joy into your life, here are a few top tips that will help you deal with having a newborn in your home…
Skin To Skin Contact
Having skin to skin contact with your newborn will create their connection with both parents – they’ll feel comfort from your voice and heartbeat, and their temperature, heart rate and breathing will be regulated, aiding with relaxation and keeping them calm. Skin to skin contact will also give your baby a chance to adapt to life, and can also boost their interest in feeding. For parents, it will help to develop a strong and loving bond with your newborn, so practicing this kind of contact with your little one is important for all.
Tummy Time
Tummy Time can be done from birth, and helps to build your baby’s upper body strength. With a newborn, you can lie them on your chest daily for a small period of time, before gradually building up how long you do this as they get older to strengthen their back, neck and shoulder muscles. When your baby is ready, tummy time can also be practiced by lying them on the floor – you can make this new experience more enjoyable for them by putting toys within reach, propping them up for comfort and interacting with them.
Control Their Environment
Your baby will be getting used to the light when they’re born, and won’t have any idea of what day and night means. You’ll have to control their environment so they can get used to these times of day – when they’re awake, letting lots of daylight into a room will help them associate light with being alert and aware – when they’re tired and ready to sleep, dimming lights, shutting curtains and ensuring the area they’re sleeping in is dark can encourage healthy sleeping habits, with them recognising that the dark means it’s time to rest.
Don’t Clock Watch
Clock watching when feeding, trying to get them to sleep or when you feel tired can negatively impact your wellbeing and cause you to feel stressed. There are no set time-limits to anything when caring for your baby, so take your time and don’t try and rush any steps or get frustrated when things aren’t going to plan.
Accept Help
When you have a newborn, often you’ll find you’re doing everything yourself in order to take care of your baby. It’s ok to ask for and accept help from family and friends from time to time – whether that’s handing your little one over to your partner or parents whilst you have a lie down, or getting assistance with the housework whilst you focus on your baby, support from your loved ones can be crucial in those first few months – so don’t reject or avoid offers that you know would really help you out. That doesn’t mean however you have to say yes to everything – if you want some quiet time with your newborn, let people know you don’t want any visitors at that moment.
Enjoy Time With Your Baby
There’s a long list of needs that come with a newborn, but one of the biggest things that’s beneficial for both you and them is just enjoying time with each other. Cuddling them, gazing at each other, playing, reading, watching them sleep – all of these things will help your baby feel safe and loved, and are really special moments you’ll treasure as they grow up.
Try & Develop A Routine
The first few months can be unpredictable, but trying to establish a routine can be really helpful for you and them. Overtime, they’ll start to recognise when they’ll be fed and when it’s time to sleep or nap, and for parents it can help to delegate responsibilities and plan your time around your newborns needs. Routines don’t need to be rigid and you will find times where you may not to be running to schedule – this is normal and something you should expect.
Remember – it’s ok to feel overwhelmed, especially if you’re a first-time parent. If you need to take a few moments away to recharge, then don’t feel guilty about having some time to yourself – your recovery and your wellbeing are just as important as your newborn. Be gentle with yourself – you may not know how to deal with every situation that arises, but remain calm and remind yourself you are doing your very best to ensure your little one is getting the care they need.
]]>From unusual names to the classics, trends over time have changed with more people now choosing to name their baby after a favourite celebrity, character in a film or tv series or even a song that means a lot to the parents. 2023 saw the name ‘Taylor’ double in popularity – a potential increase due to Taylor Swift’s continuing global success.
So, how did the names line-up last year?
In 2023, the top 10 names for girls were….
Whilst the top 10 names for boys were…
Names such as Mia, Isabella and Daisy were just outside of the top 10 for baby girls, whilst for baby boys Ethan, Charlie and Henry just missed out on being some of the top names for boys in 2023. Recent years have seen a rise in unisex names, with parents increasingly opting to go for a more gender-neutral angle for their babies – with ‘Marlowe’, ‘Blair’, ‘Ren’ and ‘Oakley’ entering the top 1,000 children’s names.
What does all this mean for 2024? Well, experts Nameberry and Babycentre have revealed their expectations for naming trends in 2024, with nature inspired names being some of the favourites after Ivy, Willow and Lily all made the top 10 last year – with rises for ‘Fern’ and ‘Hazel’ expected this year. Air-y names like Storm, Sky, Phoenix and Celeste have all also been predicted to climb up the lists for 2024.
Despite being released last Summer, Nameberry has suggested that parents expecting babies in early 2024 may take naming inspiration from the Barbie movie and it’s lead actors Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, with other popular 60’s names expected to see more registrations, including Betty, Brad and Tommy. Films based on both Elvis and Priscilla Presley could also boost registrations of these names across the year.
Science and Space are also seemingly a huge inspiration for parents, as both Luna and Nova made last year’s top 100 for baby girls, as did constellation and moon moniker’s Ophelia, Phoebe and Lyra. Darwin, Astra and Mars have also started to see more registrations over the last few years.
Whether you decide to go against the trends or keep with tradition, naming a baby is a deeply meaningful experience. Whichever name you decide to give your little one, the most important thing to do is choose a name that resonates with love and significance for you and your growing family.
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