Baby's First 3 Months: What to Expect

During the first 3 months with your baby, there will be many exciting milestones and surely some bumps along the way. Most babies follow a similar progression through their 3 months, and there are many people to help you along the way! Learning about what to expect will help make your baby's months great and your time with baby happy and healthy!

During the first couple months, your baby will go through some changes. When you bring your baby home, her neck muscles will be weak so it is important to support her neck and head when holding and cuddling her. By the time she is 2-3 months old, she will be able to hold her head up on her own! She will also start to stretch and kick her legs and want to grab at things. Babies love to put things in their mouth at this age, so be sure to keep small object away from your baby! Babies shouldn't be left unattended, so try to keep baby in the same room with you. This is a special time; make sure to keep your baby safe!

Your baby's eyesight will strengthen during these first months. At first she may seem to cross her eyes at times, which is normal. By the end of her third month, your baby should be following objects and staring at faces around her. You have probably see lots of smiling at this time, too! Your baby is enjoying playing with you so make sure to spend lots of time at her level and talking with her. She may even try to talk back! Your baby will turn her head towards sound and will startle easily.

Making sure to put your baby to sleep while still awake but tired and ready for bed will help promote good nights' sleep and help start a great night time routine. Babies can sleep for up to 6 hours a night without a feeding by the end of their third month and are ready to lengthen times between daytime feedings also. Whether you are breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, your baby is growing from all that nourishment. Try to feed your baby 4-6 ounces every 4 hours. If you are breastfeeding, feed on demand and for as long as your baby would like.

You can't spoil a baby at this age! It is important to nurture and love your baby as much as possible during these first 3 months. A baby is a wonderful thing, but can be overwhelming at times. If you are feeling stressed or frustrated, take a time out from your baby. It's okay to leave your baby in her crib for a couple minutes to take a break. Make sure to nap or have some down time when your baby is napping. This will make sure to give you some time to yourself. Don't be afraid to ask others for help. Use your friends and neighbors as a support system when you need a helping hand!

Your baby is doing so many wonderful things so make sure to take the time to enjoy it! Keep your baby safe and happy with these suggestions. Time moves quickly with a new baby!