Developmental Milestones

Livi found her feet this week. We are thrilled! It's the kind of subtle milestone that only a new parent can truly appreciate. Of course, changing time has become a real wrestling match since now she immediately goes for the feet as soon as they are exposed.

Every parent frets or brags to some degree or another about the development of their baby. The timeline associated with big events like, first words, first steps, or getting a full-time job are pretty easy to evaluate. They happen sooner or later for each child and because of the huge developmental significance each one represents most parents intuitively realize that there will be a fair amount of variation from one child to another in when they are reached. Of course, if the job thing isn't fairly well in hand by year 21, it may represent a valid concern.

It is in the earliest stages of a new baby's life that parents scrutinize every move or sound in an effort to comfort ourselves that their pride and joy is not suffering from some kind of developmental problems. We are very proud of Olivia's quick development. But, it is most important for all parents to avoid over-agonizing about what others may say, or what they might initially suspect is a developmental problem. What should you expect in a general sense as your baby progresses through their first few months? The following links will provide some credible and balanced guidance:

http://www.babycenter.com/general/baby/babydevelopment/6476.html

http://www.marchofdimes.com/pnhec/298_10203.asp

http://www.emedicinehealth.com/infant_milestones/page2_em.htm

http://www.yourbabytoday.com/heronline/newbaby/newbaby_pediatrics/ped_milestones.html

If you know of other links that are informative on this topic, please feel free to include them in a comment to this post.

What can you do to insure that your baby has the greatest opportunity to progress? The following are suggestions made in a report from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention:

* Talk to your baby. It is soothing to hear your voice.

* When your baby makes sounds, answer him by repeating and adding words. This will help him learn to use language.

* Read to your baby. This helps her develop and understand language and sounds.

* Sing to your baby.

* Play music. This helps your baby develop a love for music and math.

* Praise your baby and give him lots of loving attention.

* Spend time cuddling and holding your baby. This helps her feel cared for and secure.

* The best time to play with your baby is when he’s alert and relaxed. Watch your baby closely for signs of being tired or fussy so that you can take a break.

* Parenting can be hard work! Take care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. It is easier to enjoy your new baby and be a positive, loving parent when you are feeling good yourself.

In all cases, if you feel that your baby has a developmental difficulty it is important to speak to your pediatrician. But, realize that in most cases, everything is just fine.

What else can we do as parents to help insure that our baby has the best chance to develop at their optimum pace? We will share what we found in a future post.