Development Month By Month
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Role of Parents in Child Development
Parents play the most important role in the overall development of their child. It is the right guidance of parents that develops the character of the child. Parenting is an ongoing job. It is not something you can get away from once the time comes because children need their parents, from time to time, to stay on the right track. Here’s all that you need to know about the role of parents in the development of their child. We have covered information on how parenting influences child development and some tips on parent’s role in development of child below. Let’s read!
Importance of the Role of Parents in Child Development
Parenting and child development go hand in hand. The proverbs that the apple does not fall far from the tree and that the branch grows as the twig grows can well-describe the effects of parenting styles on child growth and development.
All development is interrelated and cannot be defined under water-tight categories. So let us focus on how parents can actively participate to ensure that the child’s growing years are worthy. The role of parents in child development is responsive, responsible and never-ending. It governs responses, actions, thinking and decision making of a child in the following areas.
1. Cognitive Development
When children are growing up, positive parenting improves their cognitive, social and problem-solving skills. Positive parenting also affects their responses and helps them grow up to be better humans. Interaction and stimulation are very important in the early years. It is all about recognising problems, handling all situations well and picking up the traits of discipline, time management and effective problem-solving through simple routines at home.
2. Socio-Cultural Development
Children observe spousal interaction and how arguments are settled in the family. It teaches them a variety of good values that are imbibed and crucial to growing up. The child learns how to behave with others, playing to a common goal, team spirit, picking the right friends and a lot more.
3. Physical Development
Reaching age-related milestones is not the only goal. Children learn about being healthy, exercising regularly, being a team player, having the right diet and growing in a conducive environment through play-and-learn. The right guidance from parents can inculcate in children a good regimen of exercise and diet to achieve ideal physical development. Parents should remember that children lead by example.
4. Mental Development
Parenting styles help the child learn innovatively, accepting failures and overcoming them, understanding discipline, accepting feedback and the award-and-punishment concept. It governs their response to stimuli, thus moulding their minds.
5. Spiritual Development
Understanding religion, prayer, knowing right from wrong, being empathetic, having the right ethical values, valuing your parents and strengthening goal-setting liberates the free spirit in children. Teaching your children to be more accepting and believing in the greater good can help them gain a sense of purpose. Try not to conform them to any particular religion and let them explore spirituality on their own.
Some Useful Parenting Tips to Make Your Child’s Growing Years Worthy
Children naturally turn to the father to play and to the mother if they sense stress, fear, etc. But, gone are the days when fathers were bread providers, and mothers did all the nurturing and interaction.
The role of a father in child development is very important. Children will always look up to their father for motivation. Similarly, the role of a mother in child development has moved on and is not restricted to nurturing and caretaking alone. From that first touch and look, to later years, a parent is responsible for making the tiny infant into a well-grown, responsible and caring adult. This list of child development tips is not gender-specific and is equally applicable to both parents.
1. Be Positive
Children can easily sense negativity. No matter how young your child is, discuss your problems with him and how you handle them. Encourage your child to participate with you in different small household tasks. Teach him how to be creative and how to solve problems with a positive attitude.
2. Be Sensitive to Your Child’s Needs
Irrespective of how small your child’s needs are, understanding and fulfilling them is very important to help your child realise that you are there for him at all times and that his needs never go unheard.
3. Be Emotionally Present
Encouragement and love yield good fruit only when they are cultivated, worked on, nurtured & pruned. Show your child that he is loved all the time and that you are always there for him, no matter what.
4. Communicate Effectively
Talk to the child and hear what he has to say before jumping to conclusions. In every conversation, make sure you think from your child’s perspective and let him express himself. Remember, positive feedback is always better than negative punishment or blames.
5. Be Affectionate to All
Children pick up what they see/hear at home. To a child, using harsh words, quarrelling loudly, constantly fighting, incorporating bad habits, and swearing feels absolutely normal if he sees the same at home.
6. Set Routines for Play, Eating and Sleep
A good routine can help set good habits for the future. If you stick to a fixed routine, eat and sleep on time, refrain from watching the television during meals, then your child too will pick up these lessons and follow a routine.
7. Make Family Outings a Part of Your Routine
Remember, the family that eats and prays together stays together! Encourage your child to have family meals together and teach him the importance of spending quality time with family members.
8. Talk to the Child Even When Tired
Hard work gives immense satisfaction, and the reward for you is watching your child learn how to deal with problems, how to deal with financial insecurities, how to interact with others and how to be a little like you. So talk to your child no matter how tired you are at the end of the day. He will learn the same and be there for his family, just like you.
9. Build Trust, Love and Fair-Play in Relationships
Best examples are between the parents, in dealing with siblings and especially in quarrels. If you behave rationally with all the family members, then your children will learn the same and will end up loving and caring for all without discriminating.
10. Help Your Child Understand The Importance of Speaking Right and Honestly
Make sure your child values honesty, especially when it comes to matters that involve relationships and money. Teach him that no matter what, he should speak the truth and stick to what he says. Also, inculcate in your child a sense of responsibility.
11. Assure Your Unconditional Love and Support
If your child fails at something, make an effort to understand why and what to do before you criticise him. But over that, tell him that mistakes do not reduce the love between people.
12. Respect Your Child’s Feelings
Accept your child’s feelings, whether good or bad—and let them come out of them in their own way. It is the emotions in a person that guide them to take either the right or the wrong actions. But, as a parent, you should be there for your child to listen to them calmly and let them vent out their feelings.
Parents must remember that supportive families encourage each other to learn and offer the possibility to be better. Therefore, you must create an environment that motivates your child to participate, educate, and practise all the good habits you want him to inculcate.
Also Read:
Important Tips on How to Be a Good Father
Impact of Working Parents on Child Development
Parents Role in Child’s Education at Home and School
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Baby Girl Height and Weight Growth Chart: 0 to 12 Months
If you’re parents to a baby girl and are anxious about understanding her growth in the first year, here’s something to help you. Read on to learn more about the growth chart of a baby girl, right from one year to 12 months. Your little girl’s pediatrician usually tracks her height and weight changes in the form of a growth chart, meticulously plotting each milestone. This serves as an ultimate guide to determine her growth, as well as rule out any developmental delay, providing reassurance and insights into her overall health and well-being. In this article, we’ll take a look at the baby girl height and weight chart to help you measure and keep track your little one’s growth.
Baby Girl Growth Chart (0-12 Months)
A growth chart for a baby girl is created based on her height, weight and head circumference measurements taken from time to time. The first set of measurements is taken at the time of birth. The doctor usually weighs the girl by placing her on a weighing scale meant for babies. The height is measured by making her lie down on her back and measuring her length from head to toe. Head circumference is measured using a measuring tape around her head, at the level of the eyebrows. Subsequent measurements are taken during regular visits to the doctor or at the time of vaccinations. These values are joined to get a growth curve, which is helpful in characterising the pattern of growth. The percentile growth of the girl baby is calculated by comparing it to a standard growth chart from the World Health Organisation (WHO). The WHO chart is devised based on the data collected from several thousand healthy baby girls to derive a percentile calculation. The minimum value corresponds to 3 percentile, while the maximum to 97 percentile. Typically a baby’s growth parameters can fall anywhere in this minimum to maximum range.
Age (In Months)
Weight (In kgs)
Height (In Cms)
Head circumference (In Cms)
0
2.4 – 4.2
45.6 – 52.7
31.7 – 36.1
1
3.2 – 5.4
50.0 – 57.4
34.3 – 38.8
2
4.0 – 6.5
53.2 – 60.9
36.0 – 40.5
3
4.6-7.4
55.8 – 63.8
37.2 – 41.9
4
5.1-8.1
58.0 – 66.2
38.2 – 43.0
5
5.5-8.7
59.9 – 68.2
39.0 – 43.9
6
5.8-9.2
61.5 – 70.0
39.7 – 44.6
7
6.1-9.6
62.9 – 71.6
40.4 – 45.3
8
6.3-10.00
64.3 – 73.2
40.9 – 45.9
9
6.6-10.4
65.6 – 74.7
41.3 – 46.3
10
6.8-10.7
66.8 – 76.1
41.7 – 46.8
11
7.0-11.0
68.0 – 77.5
42.0 – 47.1
12
7.1-11.3
69.2 – 78.9
42.3 – 47.5
Understanding Baby Girl Growth Chart Percentile
The percentile method of quantifying growth can be a little confusing to understand. However, it is a simple way of quantifying the growth of a baby girl. This percentile calculation is derived from the standard values provided by the WHO growth chart.
Suppose a baby’s weight is in the 75th percentile, it means that in a general set of girl babies, 74% of them weigh less than their weight and 25% above it. This gives a fair idea about the health and development of the child in comparison to the general standards. Each of the parameters, namely weight, height, and head circumference have individual percentile values and almost always differ from each other. An overall assessment of growth includes all the three parameters.
How to Read a Baby Girl’s Height and Weight Growth Chart?
As parents, it is essential for you to have an awareness of how to interpret a weight and height growth chart. You can request the assistance of your baby’s doctor to understand the infant girl growth chart better. There are many online tools available that help with percentile calculations of weight, height, or head circumference measurements. You can use one of them to arrive at individual percentiles, apart from plotting them as a graph to observe overall growth. Some points to remember while reading a growth chart are:
Always make sure that the comparison is made between the respective genders. There are slight differences in the minimum and maximum range between the growth values for a boy and a girl baby.
Measurements taken during a period of sickness do not reflect the actual healthy value, especially for weight. Therefore, a dip in the graph in such situations can be overlooked if there is a steady improvement in weight after recovery.
Fluctuations in weight due to reasons like teething, loss of appetite, sickness, etc. can sway the graph mildly in a baby’s weight chart. Known causes of weight loss need not be taken as a setback in growth.
Optimal percentile values are considered a good growth rate, but it is not necessary that babies should always be close to the maximum percentile range.
The baby’s height and weight are important points that need to be kept in mind while assessing growth. Babies who have started with low values, tend to catch up with expected height and weight during the growth years. Therefore, the growth of each baby should be evaluated over a period of time, keeping in mind the birth values.
Errors while taking the reading of height, weight and head circumference are possible during babies’ first year, due to their nature of constant movement. It can cause variations in the baby girl’s height chart. You can request the doctor to re-take measurements if you suspect an erroneous reading.
Factors Influencing a Baby Girl’s Growth
A number of factors influence the growth of a baby girl, which are a mix of genetics, health, and the outside environment. Here are some of them.
1. Genetics
Genes play a huge role in the growth of a baby. Parents who are taller than the average height or are well-built are likely to pass on the same genes to their baby.
2. Nutrition
Babies require a certain amount of calories and nutrients in order to grow. Babies this age usually get their nutrients from breast milk or formula, with growth affected by the quality of milk, duration, and number of feeds.
3. Ailments
Common ailments such as a cold, ear infection, etc., are minor hiccups in the growth of a baby, as he/she may feed less and be fussy. Once the baby girl recovers, growth is likely to go back to normal.
4, Pregnancy Health
Your baby is more likely to have normal growth if you have had a healthy pregnancy. Since the baby primarily gains nourishment from you during pregnancy, your body must produce enough nutrients to support both you and the baby.
When Should You Be Concerned?
A sudden drop in any of the parameters when examining growth can indicate a problem. In case the graph drops downwards, consistently, it probably indicates a developmental issue. Also, if any of the parameters are in the lowermost percentile, you can discuss it with the doctor. There could be a chance of malnourishment, and hence, you could ask your doctor about ways to supplement growth.
FAQs
1. Is there any different growth chart for preterm baby girls?
Yes, there are specialized growth charts designed specifically for preterm infants to account for their unique growth patterns and needs.
2. Can you track other developmental milestones alongside the height and weight growth of your baby girl?
Absolutely, in addition to height and weight, you can track various developmental milestones such as motor skills, cognitive development, social interactions, and language development. These milestones provide a comprehensive view of your baby girl’s overall development and well-being.
3. How often should I consult the paediatrician to monitor my baby girl’s growth?
It’s recommended to follow the paediatrician’s schedule for well-baby visits, typically at 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, and 12 months of age, or as advised based on your baby’s specific needs.
4. What should I do if I notice any concerns or deviations from the growth chart?
If you notice any concerns such as significant deviations from the growth chart, developmental delays, or unusual behaviors, it’s crucial to discuss them with your paediatrician promptly. Early intervention can often address issues effectively and ensure your baby girl receives appropriate support and care.
Tracking the growth of your baby girl with the help of a baby girl weight chart in kg, especially in the first year of birth, is very important to ensure good health and also to rule out any developmental issues.
Check and track your baby girl’s height, weight, and overall growth with our child growth tracker.
References/Resources:
1. z-scores: girls: Girls chart- Weight-for-age: Birth to 6 months (z-scores); WHO; https://cdn.who.int/media/docs/default-source/child-growth/child-growth-standards/indicators/weight-for-age/cht-wfa-girls-z-0-6.pdf
2. z-scores: girls: Girls chart- Weight-for-age: Birth to 2 years (z-scores); WHO; https://cdn.who.int/media/docs/default-source/child-growth/child-growth-standards/indicators/weight-for-age/cht-wfa-girls-z-0-2.pdf
3. Understanding baby growth charts; Pregnancy, Birth & Baby; https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/understanding-baby-growth-charts
4. Growth Charts; Nemours Kids Health; https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/growth-charts.html
5. Slow Weight Gain in Infants and Children; Boston Children’s Hospital; https://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/slow-weight-gain-infants-and-children
6. Rowland. M; Rowland. S, Cole. T; Impact of infection on the growth of children from 0 to 2 years in an urban West African community (The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition); National Library of Medicine; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3337031/; January 1998
7. Low Birth Weight; University of Rochester Medical Center; https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=90&contentid=p02382
Also Read:
Baby Developmental Milestones Chart
Baby Boy Height & Weight Growth Chart
Your Newborn Baby’s Growth and Development
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Learning and Development Activities for 3 Month Old Baby
Three months might not seem to be too long, but it is definitely long enough for your newborn to grow into a bigger, more alert child. By this time, your child might be settling into a sleep pattern and developing in terms of her interaction with the world. This is sure to give you a much-needed respite from the constant fussing and fretting over the child. It is also important to remember that every child is unique and has a unique pattern of development. Therefore, comparing the milestones of two children might not seem feasible. Nevertheless, to help with every tot’s optimal development, we present activities for 3-month-old infant in the following article.
Games can help your baby develop skills further, and improve the way she interacts with the world. 3 months might seem too young an age to start playing games but it is never too early for development. Let us take a look at a few 3-month-old baby development activities which can help in the growth and development of your child.
What Skills Are Expected to Develop in a 3-Month-Old Child?
As a parent, there are a few things you can expect from your child at the age of 3 months. Some of these are given below.
Your child will be able to reach out and grasp things, but for a brief amount of time (1).
The neck and back muscles of the baby start to strengthen around this time. It would, therefore, be a great period to start laying the child on her tummy.
Your child will be able to communicate in babble and baby talk, and also laugh and smile at your actions.
Learning takes place, and your child follows toys and people when they move around (2). They will also be able to understand if their mother has left the room.
Your baby will move their hands and if they have a toy in their hand, they may try to mouth their hands or toy in their mouth (3).
You can start laying the groundwork for the vocabulary of the child by talking to them as much as possible.
Fine Motor Activities for 3-Month-Old Babies
These games and activities for 3-month-old infants help your child develop her motor skills in a fun manner (4).
Make your baby lie on her back and place or hold toys at a position out of her reach. Move or shake the toy to encourage her to reach out for the toy.
Try action songs with your child, and make her do the actions as much as possible. Clapping and pat-a-cake are great alternatives, too.
Give your child clean toys which she can hold and mouth as she pleases. This increases her grip strength and improves her motor skills, too. However, remember to give her something that is large enough so that she doesn’t choke.
Gross Motor Activities for 3-Month-Old Babies
Gross motor activities at this age help the child strengthen the muscles of her neck and back. Tummy time should be started now, under the supervision of the mother. Here are some gross motor activities to do with 3-month-old babies (4).
You can encourage her to support her own head at this age. Place the child on your lap with her back and neck supported well, and encourage your child to look at you by making funny noises.
Tummy time can be carried out by placing the baby on her tummy and keeping toys just out of her reach. You can even lie down face-to-face with your child and encourage her to lift her face and look up at you.
Change her positions as much as you can, frequently. You can place her on her belly for some time, then make her lie on her back or sit well-supported for a few minutes. This will pique her curiosity, as she has a different view of the world around her always. Also, remember to talk to her about this as much as possible.
Communicating and Imitating Activities for 3-Month-Old Infants
After motor skills, you must also set aside time to improve your 3-month-old’s communication skills. Try these communication activities with a 3-month-old baby (4).
Help your child look around the room by calling out her name from different positions around the room. Remember to praise her or snuggle her if she looks at you after you have called.
Try to make your child imitate the sounds you make. You can start this game by imitating the child yourself and smiling when she looks up curiously at you. This will help her understand she can communicate with her mother using her voice.
At this age, your child has already started to develop her language skills. Therefore, always talk to her and paint a picture with words, so that she hears a range of words and tries to place those sounds with what they are seeing. You can talk loud but in a calm manner (5).
Learning Activities for 3-Month-Old Babies
Learning activities at this age stimulate the brain of your child and help her develop well over time. These 3-month-old activities for babies are just perfect for learning and a fun time together with your tot (6) .
Encourage her to follow something she sees as it moves using toys. You can place the child on her tummy on the floor and roll a ball to see if she follows its track with her eyes. You can always use a rattle to interest her if she does not seem to mind you initially.
To help your child understand her name, say it as much as possible around her. You can even sing songs with her name so that she understands that it has some meaning. Her name will be one of the first words she understands.
Change your tone as much as possible so that emotions are communicated using the tone of your voice. You can modulate your voice while you sing lullabies to her.
Let her learn her surroundings through touch, and provide lots of different textures for your child to explore. Everyday surfaces inside the home are good enough to start with, so encourage her to feel cushions, wood floors, and carpets first.
Cognitive Development Activities for 3-Months-Old Babies
Cognitive Development activities for your child also help improve her cognitive skills and directly impact her intelligence and personality as she grows up. Let’s start with easy and practical three-month-old activities for babies (7) (4):
Read as much as possible to your child. Start with picture books so that she can see what you are trying to convey to her. She will love looking at the colourful images in front of them while hearing your contrasting voice.
Talk to her about anything and everything. You can start by telling your child about how your day was. Make sure to vary your tone a lot and maintain a lot of eye contact with her while you speak to her.
Place mirrors around her in which she can see an image of herself. She might be too young to understand that the images are a reflection of herself, but she is sure to love the person in the mirror who is constantly moving and waving her arms.
Give your child toys that make lots of varying noises. This will help her understand the cause and effect of hitting particular noises, and she is sure to love the pleasant sounds that come out of the toys as she plays with them.
Show your child that different items make different noises when you touch or hit them. You can use items which have contrasting sounds, like a rattle or a bell and a drum. Your child will be able to understand the differences between various objects and their sounds soon enough.
Provide new textures for him that she can not only touch but can also mouth. This also helps her understand some of the differences between various objects when she sees them.
Sensory Activities for 3-Months-Old Babies
Sensory activities for your child aim to improve her five senses and the ways in which she uses them.
To start with, you can hang something very colourful above her crib. It should also move around with the wind so that your child can follow the colours easily with her eyes. This does a great job of providing visual stimulation.
Get your child used to the sense of touch by gently touching and tickling her. She will soon understand the importance of touch as she giggles because of your gentle, caring touch.
To improve her sense of skin, there must be a lot of skin-to-skin contact between the child and her parent.
Sing lots of songs to the baby to help her develop her listening skills. Talk to her constantly and call her name out as much as possible. This will also help her develop her vocabulary skills as time passes.
In the mirrors around her, tap the image and say the baby’s name aloud. As time passes, she will be able to understand that the girl in the mirror is herself.
Touch the child’s nose, forehead, or ears and say ‘beep’ out loud. Your baby might start watching the movement of your hand and begin to anticipate your touch before it happens.
FAQs
1. What my 3 months old baby can learn at this stage?
Around three months old, your baby starts making cute sounds like coos and gurgles when they hear your voice. You can chat with them and encourage them to keep babbling, which helps them learn how to talk and have little conversations. Show toys to your baby and talk about them. This way, they start recognising colours and shapes while having fun (8). Babies like knowing what to expect, so having a regular order to their day makes them feel safe and happy. You can also take your baby for a walk outside and point out things you see, like trees, birds, and flowers (5).
2. What can I do to strengthen my baby’s brain development?
To help your baby’s brain grow strong, you can create a happy and loving home, talk to them kindly, and enjoy activities like reading, singing, and chatting together. Playing games like peek-a-boo and smiling at them are great too! Breastfeeding for at least six months is super important, and it’s good for them to meet lots of different people (9). Let them explore their surroundings both indoors and outdoors, and make sure they see the doctor regularly for check-ups. And remember, it’s best to avoid screen time for now.
3. What foods are best for my 3 month bay’s development?
The American Academy of Pediatrics and WHO suggest breastfeeding only for the first six months of a baby’s life as it is a superfood that contains vital nutrients for their initial development (9) (10).
Contrary to popular belief, you should not encourage your child to sleep as much as possible. Even at an age as young as 3 months, your baby might be starting to understand the world around her in a limited manner. This is the time when her brain and muscles start to develop quicker, so it is extremely important that you stimulate both her senses and her motor skills. The activities of 3-month-old baby boys and girls might seem extremely incoherent to you, but that is just your baby trying to explore the world around her using her senses. It has been found that such games and activities have a direct impact on the intelligence of your child when she grows up. Therefore, it is never too early to start playing development games!
References/Resources:
1. Your baby’s growth and development – 3 months old; Pregnancy Birth & Baby; https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/babys-growth-and-development-3-months-old
2. Developmental Milestones: 3 Months; American Academy of Pediatrician; https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/Pages/Developmental-Milestones-3-Months.aspx
3. 1-3 Months Old Baby Development; CHOC; https://www.choc.org/primary-care/ages-stages/1-to-3-months/
4. Encouraging Healthy Development – Healthy Development Ideas – 3 Months; Help Me Grow; https://helpmegrowmn.org/HMG/HelpfulRes/EncourageHealthDev/3Months/index.html
5. Every Day I Learn Through Play!; Government of Newfoundland and Labrador; https://www.gov.nl.ca/education/files/earlychildhood_everyday_i_learn_through_play.pdf
6. Supporting Thinking Skills From 0-12 Months; Zero To Three; https://www.zerotothree.org/resource/supporting-thinking-skills-from-0-12-months/
7. 18 Cognitive Activities for Infants to Help Development; WonderBaby.org; https://www.wonderbaby.org/articles/cognitive-activities-for-infants
8. Learning, Play, and Your 1- to 3-Month-Old; Nemours KidsHealth; https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/learn13m.html
9. Exclusively breastfeed for 6 months; WHO; https://www.emro.who.int/nutrition/breastfeeding/exclusively-breastfeed-for-6-months.html
10. Updated AAP guidance recommends longer breastfeeding due to benefits; AAP Publications; https://publications.aap.org/aapnews/news/20528/Updated-AAP-guidance-recommends-longer?autologincheck=redirected
Also Read:
3 Months Old Baby Milestones
How to Take Care of 3 Months Old Baby?
3 Months Old Baby Growth and Development
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How to Make Sure You Don't Miss Key Stages of Your Baby’s Brain Development
Ever wonder if you’re doing enough to support your child’s brain development or accidentally skipping the important parts? Parenting is quite overwhelming and even though you’re doing your best to keep your baby happy and healthy, sometimes a little guidance can make sure you don’t miss time-sensitive opportunities to help your little one more.
From the moment a baby is born, their brain begins a journey of incredible growth. In fact, 90% of a child’s brain develops by the age of 5 (1). That’s why the early years are often called the “golden window” of brain development. During this time, every experience, every nutrient, and every moment matters.
So how can parents make sure they’re supporting their child’s brain development in the best way possible?
Stages of Brain Development
Behind every new word spoken or skill learned, the brain is hard at work, growing and making connections. Let’s take a look at the different stages of brain development from birth to age six.
0-1 Year : In the first year, babies begin to recognise voices, respond to sounds, and show emotions like smiling. They start to babble, reach for objects, and explore the world through their senses (2).
1-2 Years : During this stage, toddlers become more active and curious. They begin to walk, say simple words, and follow basic instructions. They show interest in objects and people around them and often copy what they see (3).
2-3 Years : They start forming short sentences and asking questions. Their thinking becomes more active, and they enjoy pretend play and simple problem-solving (4).
3-4 Years : At this age, children become more social and enjoy playing with others. They can speak in full sentences and express their emotions more clearly. They begin to understand rules, take turns, and show empathy (5).
4-6 Years : Between four and six, children develop stronger memory, focus, and reasoning skills. They start to understand numbers, ask many questions, and solve simple problems (6).
Why Nutrition Is Crucial for Brain Growth?
Just like a plant needs sunlight and water to grow, our brain needs the right nutrients to develop and function well, especially during childhood, when the brain is growing the fastest. What we eat doesn’t just fill our stomachs; it fuels our minds. Among the most important nutrients for brain development are iron and vitamin C.
1. Iron
Iron plays a central role in helping oxygen reach the brain (7). The developing brain needs a steady supply of oxygen to form connections, support learning, and keep energy levels up. Without enough iron, a child’s brain doesn’t get the fuel it needs, and they may (8):
Struggle with attention and memory.
Show delayed development.
Be less active or alert.
Have behavioural issues such as irritability or restlessness.
Foods Rich in Iron (9):
Spinach and other dark leafy greens
Lentils and beans
Eggs
Meats like chicken
Animal liver
Iron fortified food products
2. Vitamin C
While iron is powerful, it needs a little help. Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron more effectively. Think of it as iron’s partner in brain-building.
Benefits of Vitamin C for Brain Health
Enhances iron absorption, especially from plant sources (10).
Acts as an antioxidant to protect brain cells.
Foods Rich in Vitamin C (11):
Oranges, lemons, and citrus fruits
Strawberries
Bell peppers (especially red and yellow)
Kiwi
But let’s face it, daily routines can get hectic. Between school runs, packed workdays, and everything else, preparing perfectly balanced meals every single time isn’t always realistic. That’s where a smart nutritional supplement can help support your child’s brain development.
How Can I Choose the Best Nutritional Supplement for My Child’s Brain Health?
Choosing the right nutritional support means finding something that complements a child’s daily diet while addressing common nutritional gaps.
Danone’s Dexogrow has been specially developed with these needs in mind for children aged 2 to 6 years. It’s a scientifically designed supplement with nutrients to support both brain function and overall physical growth in children.
What Makes it Stand Out?
36 vital nutrients to support overall physical development and cognitive function (12).
DHA and ARA to fuel brain development.
Iron and Vitamin C work together to support mental alertness and better absorption (12) (13).
Prebiotic fibre to support gut health and digestion (14).
It’s designed not just to nourish but to support the kind of active, curious, energetic childhood every parent hopes for. Because when a child is well-nourished and supported from the inside out, Dimaag Daudega!
Tips for Parents to Support Brain Development
You play a powerful role in shaping your child’s growing brain, often through simple, everyday moments. Below are some tips to help you support your child’s brain development in these early years.
1. Start Early: Even during pregnancy and infancy, brain development is in full swing. Breast milk is important in the early months.
2. Offer Balanced Meals: Include a mix of proteins, healthy fats, and iron and vitamin C-rich foods.
3. Talk and Listen Often: Nutrition is key, but so is stimulation. Talk, sing, play, and read with your child every day.
4. Limit Screen Time: Interactive play and real-world experiences are better for brain growth than passive screen time, especially in the early years (15).
5. Regular Check-ups: Speak with your paediatrician to monitor your child’s growth and ensure their nutritional needs are being met.
As parents, we all want the best for our children, especially when it comes to their development. While no one expects perfection, we can all take steps to ensure they’re getting the right nutrition at the right time. So, let’s give them what they need to succeed today and in the future.
Also Read:
Baby Brain Development
Foetal Brain Development
Tricks to make Baby Brain Sharp and Strong
Foods that are Bad for Baby Brain Development
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When Do Babies Start Laughing and How to Make Them Giggle
From saying their word to taking their first step, there are several memorable milestones that a child covers, and laughing for the first time is another gem of a milestone that does nothing but swell up our hearts after seeing that magical smile. But when do babies start laughing? Most babies have their first laugh around four months, but it is different for every child, which is totally normal. A baby’s first laugh is a mesmerising milestone parents await patiently. Each milestone covered is a check that confirms your baby is growing and developing healthily. A newborn laugh is infectious and is a sign that your baby is communicating, alert, and responsive. If your child has yet to cover this milestone or has skipped it, read the article to learn more about when babies giggle and laugh and what you can do to make them laugh.
When Do Babies Start to Laugh?
Laughter is a form of self-expression and communication that babies learn early in their infancy. ‘What age do babies laugh?’ is a frequent question among parents. Most babies typically start laughing around the age of 4 months, but it is important to keep in mind that each baby has a unique growth rate. So, if your baby is 4 months old and has yet to have their first laugh, it is totally fine (1). By the time they are six months old, their cooing and chuckling will have evolved into fuller laughs (2).
Before your baby’s first laugh, they will learn to coo and smile. Although different milestones, smiling and laughing are related. Your little peanut will learn to smile around 6 to 8 weeks or by the end of their second month, much earlier than they begin laughing (3). Smiling is also a form of self-expression and will put the foundation of the bond you create with your baby. After the smiles and coos become regular, you can keep an eye out for giggles and laughs.
You may expect your baby’s first laugh around one month after their first smile, but it could also be two or three months later. So, dear parents, be patient and keep your camera ready to capture magical moments from the moment they start smiling and chuckling to laughing.
What Makes Infants Laugh?
Infants are in the stage of discovering how the world works and how sounds feel, and hence, lack a sense of humour at such an early age. Their laughter in the early stages does not mean they are having a good time, but it is often their reaction to stimuli. They will develop a sense of humour over the next six months as their cognitive ability develops (4).
For instance, bouncing on a knee will bring laughs and giggles because it provides physical excitement (5).
In later months, around 6 months of age, babies will start understanding their surroundings and slowly learn various emotions, such as surprise and delight, and process laughter based on that.
Games like peekaboo and pat-a-cake bring the surprise factor that will make babies giggle and laugh out loud.
How to Make an Infant Laugh?
Making a baby laugh is no rocket science. Here are some tips to make a baby laugh:
1. Make Silly Sounds
Babies love silly sounds and expressions. Become goofy and make as many popping or kissing sounds as you can, and see their face light up with glee. You can also make squeaky sounds or blow your lips together.
2. Blow Raspberries
Blowing raspberries on your little peanut’s tummy is hands-down the classiest and one of the best ways to make your baby laugh. The combination of funny sounds and tickling on the belly is sure to elicit a laugh from anyone. Keep in mind that you are blowing raspberries on your baby, so be gentle and make sure they are comfortable and you’re not too extreme.
3. Play Social Games
Social games like peekaboo are a great way of making babies laugh. Babies usually respond to games like peekaboo around the age of four to six months. Even if the action doesn’t elicit any reaction, repetition of words and funny faces can lay the foundation for communication.
4. Noisemakers
Noisy baby toys, such as those with zippers or bells, are also a good way to catch your baby’s attention. Try different noise makers to learn what makes your little one laugh.
5. Mimicking Baby Sounds
Babies are like sponges; they try to mimic everything they see. Make them laugh by mimicking them. When they babble, you babble the same, or when they blow a raspberry, you also blow a funny raspberry.
What Should You Do If Your Baby Doesn’t Laugh?
If your little pocket of sunshine is between 4 and 6 months of age and hasn’t started chuckling or laughing by now, don’t panic. The growth and development of all babies are unique, and each baby develops at their own pace. Your little one needs some more time to meet their milestones. However, if you still feel something is off and have concerns about their development, don’t hesitate to consult your paediatrician.
In some cases, some babies may be more serious and prefer not to crackle every now and then. This might be considered fine if they happily meet all other milestone criteria.
Lack of response to sounds or laughter could indicate hearing issues. Thus, it is essential to be aware of the signs and have your child diagnosed around 6 months of age to rule out any potential possibilities.
FAQs
1. When do babies laugh out loud?
You may expect your little munchkin to unload their first big laugh around 6 months of age (2).
2. When do babies laugh in response to social activity?
Babies may start responding to social games like peekaboo with a smile or laugh around the age of 9 months. So, keep your camera ready to capture those picturesque moments and cherish them forever.
3. Why do babies laugh?
Babies smiling, chuckling, and laughing are all integral to their social and emotional development. These are early forms of communication that convey contentment, just as they express resentment or dislike through crying. Initially, laughter or smiles are most likely a content reaction, but as they understand your response to their giggles and laughs, they may simply do that again to capture your attention, or they might love the sound or feel of laughing.
4. Why do babies smile or laugh in their sleep?
Have you ever seen a baby smiling in their sleep? Well, it’s common for babies to smile or twitch in their sleep. Most likely, it’s because your baby is transitioning to an active sleep cycle, which can cause involuntary movements like twitching or smiling. However, there’s no clear explanation as to why babies smile or twitch while sleeping.
Babies’ laughter is infectious and heartwarming, and parents patiently wait for the moment to hear their little one’s sweet giggles. Laughter is also a wonderful milestone babies achieve. However, it is essential to remember that each child develops and grows at their unique pace. Therefore, it is possible that some babies achieve the milestone early or on time, while others reach that phase a little later. Every case is OK. Resist comparing your little one to other children, and instead, enjoy their milestones with them, strengthening the bond.
References/Resources:
1. CDC – Important Milestones: Your Baby By Four Months
2. CDC – Important Milestones: Your Baby By Six Months
3. American Academy of Pediatrics – When do babies first smile?
4. American Academy of Pediatrics – Emotional and Social Development: 4 to 7 Months
5. American Academy of Pediatrics – Emotional & Social Development in Babies: Birth to 3 Months
Also Read:
When Do Babies Start Sitting?
Babies Start Rolling Over
When do Babies Start Standing
When Do Babies Start Smiling?
Help your Baby to Sit Up on His Own
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Baby Bottom Shuffling – Is it Common?
As parents, your baby will cross numerous milestones while growing up, and one such milestone can be baby bottom shuffling. Well, if this term is new to you and you wish to know more about bottom shuffling in babies, we suggest that you take a look at this post. In this post, we shall be talking about bum shuffling, how you can manage this condition in your baby, what causes it, and many other important aspects related to the topic! We aim to provide comprehensive information to help you understand and support your baby through this unique phase of their development.
What Is Bottom Shuffling?
When your baby is all set to move around, he will make efforts to crawl, but some babies may prefer to move while sitting on their bums. When babies move on their bums, they make use of their arms and legs to propel their movement. It is often seen that babies who begin bottom shuffling usually skip crawling. Also, bum shuffling and late walking are closely related, which means if your baby is scooting on the bottom, then there can be a delay in walking. Usually, such babies begin walking around 18 months to 24 months.
Is Bum Shuffling Normal Among Babies?
Where some babies are fast in achieving various developmental milestones, others may skip them altogether or opt for variants, and bum shuffling may be one such variant. If you are thinking about how common bum shuffling is in babies, well, it is fairly common in babies. Though crawling is something that most parents expect their babies to begin with, as far as movement is concerned. However, it is surprisingly common for babies to opt for this alternative instead.
Why Do Some Infants Bottom Shuffle?
Though it is common for babies to scoot and not crawl, however, it is important to understand that there may be underlying reasons for the same. Following are some factors that may make babies do this:
1. Neurological Development
Here are some neurological factors:
Infants or babies with low muscle tone may prefer bottom shuffling to crawling if they were not given ample tummy time.
Sometimes traumatic births can hamper the primitive reflexes of the babies, which may put them at risk of impeded or delayed maturation. This may lead to bottom shuffling too.
If your baby is born preterm, it may become difficult for the baby to come into the crawling position because he may have tighter hip muscles. Tighter hip muscles make it tricky to get the baby into the crawling position.
2. Environmental Causes
Sometimes, environmental factors may lead to bottom shuffling and the following are some environmental causes:
If your baby spends more time on his back, he may find it difficult to creep or crawl.
If there are carpets on the floor or there is a hard wooden floor, babies may find it difficult to crawl and may opt for bum shuffling.
If your baby didn’t get ample tummy time and was assisted to sit instead, then he may find it difficult to crawl or creep and may opt for bottom shuffling.
What Are the Possible Complications of Bottom Shuffling?
Though there are no major complications that may affect your baby, the following are some drawbacks that you may notice:
The baby misses out on the crawling experience, which is not only required for the strengthening of the arms and legs muscles but also helps the baby to move around on different kinds of surfaces such as grass, slopes, sand, slippery floors, etc.
Usually, the bottom shuffling movement is very asymmetrical, more so if the infant sits with his leg twisted or with his one knee flexed. This may lead to tightness of the lower back muscles that can make the baby’s pelvis tilt on one side. Sometimes when the baby is resting, the leg may appear either turned outwards or look shorter than the other leg.
How Can Parents Help Their Children?
Before you begin helping your kid, it is important to understand that bum shuffling is very normal, and you can adopt various measures to help overcome the habit of your munchkin. Here are some ways in which parents can help their children:
If the floor is hard or carpeted and the baby finds it difficult to walk, use knee pads for the baby. This will help the baby to be on his four without any discomfort and thus encourage him to crawl and creep.
Help your baby to kneel using a step, as this will help strengthen the baby’s arms.
Assist your baby in coming to a kneeling or crawling position from the sitting position.
Indulge your baby in games that involve muscle toning and which also involve inhibiting primitive reflexes.
Help your baby stimulate the joints and muscles by providing ample movement opportunities.
Baby massages are also a great way of strengthening your baby’s muscles and joints.
Whenever your baby begins bottom shuffling, shuffle his position and help him to crawl instead.
Help your baby roll from side to side as this helps in hip area movement, and it also aids vestibular stimulation. If you wish, you can use a big ball, or you can do it on a mat too.
When your baby begins to use one of his legs to bum shuffle, get him on his fours and start rocking him forward and backwards.
If you are not able to make any changes to your baby’s movements to help him crawl, we suggest that you visit your doctor and get help. Osteopaths, chiropractors, and paediatric physiotherapists are some professionals who can help a great deal in altering your baby’s posture and assisting in his crawling.
When to Consult the Doctor?
Sometimes bum shuffling may remain the main choice of your baby’s movement until he starts walking. Do not worry or panic. The best you can do is help your kid get some crawling experience. Parents may sometimes fear because there are beliefs that bottom shuffling may lead to other complications. If you notice any of the below symptoms in your little one, it will be best to get in touch with your doctor as soon as possible:
If your baby experiences any problems with hearing or vision.
If you notice any bottom shuffling and developmental delays, which include motor, language or other skills.
If your kid experiences difficulty in making movements with his legs or arms, or they may appear floppy or weak.
If your kid is not able to place both feet flat on the floor or places one foot differently than the other.
In case your kid loses his balance whenever he tries to stand, and he falls backwards or towards one side.
If you notice your kid using one side of the body more than using the other side or your baby prefers to turn his head on one side only.
FAQs
1. What is the typical age range for bottom shuffling?
Bottom shuffling usually occurs in babies between the ages of 6 to 12 months. However, some babies may start earlier or later, and it can vary widely depending on individual development.
2. Is bottom shuffling a sign of delayed motor skills?
Most parents worry if bottom shuffling is a developmental delay sign. While bottom shuffling is a normal variation of movement, it can sometimes be associated with delayed walking. However, many bottom shufflers develop other motor skills normally and begin walking without significant delays.
3. Can bottom shuffling indicate hip issues?
In some cases, bottom shuffling can be associated with hip dysplasia or other hip problems. If your baby consistently bottom shuffles and shows signs of discomfort or asymmetry in leg movement, it is advisable to have their hips checked by a doctor.
4. What are some fun activities to promote crawling?
To promote crawling, you can set up obstacle courses with cushions and toys to encourage your baby to move around. Interactive games, like rolling a ball back and forth or using a crawl tunnel, can also make crawling more appealing and fun for your baby.
Sometimes the reasons for bum shuffling are very common, but sometimes there may be underlying complications like autism. Therefore, if you notice any such changes in your baby, you should get in touch with your doctor and get the required help.
References/Resources:
1. Normal Variation In Development – Bottom Shuffling; Fife Health & Social Care Partnership; https://www.nhsfife.org/media/33208/nhs-fife-normal-variation-in-development-bottom-shuffling-2020.pdf, May 2020
2. Okai, Y., Nakata, T., Miura, K., Ohno, A., Wakako, R., et. al.; Shuffling babies and autism spectrum disorder; Brain Dev – PubMed; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32878720/, February 2021
3. Rebecca Shelton; Bottom Shuffling Babies; University Hospitals Dorset – NHS Foundation Trust; https://www.uhd.nhs.uk/uploads/about/docs/our_publications/patient_information_leaflets/Childrens_therapy/Bottom_shuffling_Babies.pdf, February 2021
4. Shuffling Babies: Babies who don’t crawl – Projects; Child Research Net; https://www.childresearch.net/projects/health/2016_01.html, July 2016
5. Babies who bottom shuffle; The Association of Paediatric Chartered Physiotherapists; https://apcp.csp.org.uk/system/files/documents/2023-10/Bottom%20Shuffling%202023.pdf
6. CDC’s Developmental Milestones; CDC; https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/index.html
7. Crawling Styles; American Academy of Pediatrics; https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/Pages/Crawling-Styles.aspx
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Clicky Hips in Babies
Cruising Milestone in Infants
Reasons for Baby not Crawling
Why do Babies Crawl Backwards?
Baby Shaking Head From Side to Side
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Creeping Vs Crawling – Know The Difference
Little ones grow way too fast, and many times, we lose track of their development while adoring them. It is, however, important to note the important milestones they go through so we know they are on the right track. Creeping and crawling are two important developmental milestones that indicate progress. There is a fine difference between the two, but many times, parents mistake baby creeping and baby crawling the same. Our mission today is to make you understand creeping vs crawling, and why knowing this makes a huge difference! While moving forward using arms and legs with belly touching the floor is crawling, moving forward on hands and knees with belly up is creeping.
If your baby isn’t already creeping or crawling by the age of 7 to 9 months old, try getting some toys and encourage them to move around. If they still don’t, something might be wrong, and you might need to have a word with the paediatrician. However, if they do – then there’s nothing to worry about. Here’s a simple distinction of creeping vs crawling in detail below.
What Is the Difference Between Baby Creeping and Crawling?
Want to know the difference between creep and crawl? Many parents don’t know the difference between creeping and crawling. The biggest reason is that the two look very similar at first glance. In the case of crawling, the child’s stomach stays in contact with the ground as he moves around. Which makes creeping the next progression when they lift it off the ground. Either way, if your child has already begun doing either of them, it’s a good sign.
When babies creep or crawl, it’s a sign that they are growing mentally, emotionally, and physically. Babies relish the freedom of being able to move around. And as a parent, it’s your responsibility to encourage them. As your baby continues to move more and more, they will slowly learn how to stand up and take their first steps.
Here are the differences you need to be aware of regarding both creeping and crawling.
1. Crawling
Crawling is the movement your baby does when his tummy is on the floor. He pulls his body, using his hands and knees, with his stomach touching the floor. There are various crawling methods out there, namely four common ones – reaching out with one arm and pulling with the other, using both elbows to pull the body forward, pulling your baby forward using one elbow at a time and finally, moving forward using both hands and knees (or crawling on the tummy).
Why Does It Matter?
Crawling matters because it tells you the following things about your baby:
Your baby’s upper body strength is building.
Your baby is learning how to balance his body and getting the hang of moving around.
Their fine motor skills are building alongside spatial awareness.
Primitive reflexes are getting better.
Neurological development is taking place, and they are starting to become more aware of their environment.
Your baby is getting the hand of hand-eye coordination and understanding how to move their limbs (1).
2. Creeping
Creeping comes after crawling. It’s the second stage, and after creeping, your baby will transition to walking. Isn’t that exciting?
How do you know your baby has begun creeping? The first telltale sign is when they lift their tummy off the floor and begin moving around using their hands and knees. Most parents confuse creeping and crawling and mix the two, but they’re different. Watch out for their tummy; you’ll know the difference immediately.
Why Does It Matter?
Creeping matters because it tells you a lot of things about your baby. For starters:
Your baby’s arms, feet, back, and upper body muscles have developed (2).
They are getting ready to move to the next stage, that is, walking.
Their coordination skills and sense of rhythm are improving.
Visual and proprioception skills are improving.
They are also getting better at conceptual thinking and gross motor skills.
Should You Worry if Your Baby Isn’t Crawling or Creeping Yet?
It is common for babies to generally reach these physical milestones by 9 months of age (3). However, if your little one is a late bloomer (we mean late creeper or crawler), there is no reason to panic. Every child is unique and has a unique pattern of growth and development. Let them develop at their own pace. Give them the necessary nutrition required for growth and proper assistance in helping them crawl and creep, and your little one will be fine. However, if, even after all necessary measures, you seem to notice any abnormality or simply delayed growth, consult a paediatrician.
FAQs
1. Why is crawling important for your baby?
Crawling is an essential physical milestone for better body and hand coordination, body balance, learning primitive reflexes, and strengthening body muscles.
2. Why is creeping important for your baby?
Creeping is important for the better development of fine motor skills, visual skills, conceptual skills, and body coordination.
3. What are the different names of creeping?
Gliding, inchworming, slithering, scooting, and shuffling are popular terms used for creeping.
4. What are different types of crawling?
There are two types of crawling: traditional crawling and commando crawling. In traditional crawling, the baby makes use of the hands and knees to crawl, whereas, in commando crawling, the baby uses arms to propel the body forward, just like they do in army.
Creep vs crawl in babies is not to be confused with. Don’t get worried if your baby is crawling and has not transitioned to creeping as yet. It takes time for young tots, and the best thing you can do as a parent is to encourage them. Just make sure you notice and see if they’re getting the movements right. If they aren’t, do it yourself and show it to them. Babies are excellent learners and learn best by copying. According to a study, babies who were trained in crawling apparently learned to creep significantly earlier than the other group of babies who weren’t trained. So, smile, have fun watching your child grow, and be amazed when they transition to taking their first steps. Until then, enjoy your baby’s crawling or creeping phase!
References/Resources:
1. Goldfield, E. C.; Transition from rocking to crawling: Postural constraints on infant movement. Developmental Psychology; 25(6), 913–919; https://doi.org/10.1037/0012-1649.25.6.913; https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1990-09454-001; 1989
2. Lagerspetz. K., Nygåkd. M, Strandvik. C; The effects of training in crawling on the motor and mental development of infants; Scand. J. Psychol; Wiley Online Library; https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1467-9450.1971.tb00623.x, September 1971
3. Baby Milestones – When Babies Sit Up, Roll Over and Crawl; Help Me Grow; https://helpmegrowmn.org/HMG/HelpfulRes/Articles/BabyMilestones/index.html
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When Do Babies Hold Their Heads Up?
Baby Crawling Backwards – Is it Normal?
Normal Reasons Baby Might Not Be Crawling
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Baby Milestone – Creeping
Your little one will achieve many milestones in their first year after birth, and creeping will be one of them. Being able to move around is not only exciting for the baby, but parents also take great pride when they see their baby moving around without any assistance. As soon as your baby begins creeping, you will notice that standing and walking will be followed soon. If you wish to gain more insight into this developmental baby milestone, we recommend browsing the following post!
Video : Creeping : Your Baby’s Important Developmental Milestone
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRXGZWxzOGw
At What Age Do Infants Start Creeping?
As parents, we are always excited about our baby’s developmental milestones, and we keep looking forward to them. So, if you are wondering when does a baby start creeping – well, as soon as your baby is able to sit on her own without any kind of support, she may try to be more mobile than before. You will notice that for the next two months, your baby will make great progress in her pre-crawling stage and may begin with movements, such as creeping, scooting, rocking, rolling, and squirming.
Once your baby shows the readiness to creep, you should offer a lot of free space to your little munchkin to move freely. You can also lure your kid to move by placing her favourite toys at a distance. Sometimes babies may also creep backwards, but there is no need to worry or hit the panic button. This is because it is easier to move the legs backwards than to move forward, but soon your baby will be on the right track.
Why Is Creeping an Important Milestone for Babies?
Creeping is an essential developmental milestone for your baby as it helps achieve various other milestones. Here is why creeping is an important aspect of a baby’s life:
Creeping helps the baby learn various concepts, such as up/down, far/near, under/over, etc. These skills acquired at a young age benefit the baby with advanced movement skills and mathematical concepts.
Baby’s vision gets better tuned, which is also advantageous in attaining better focus as the baby grows.
Creeping is a great way of getting the hang of primitive reflexes that proves practical for learning and coordination in the later stages of your baby’s life.
Baby learns about the timing and rhythm of the body, which aids them in walking and running later.
It helps strengthen the muscles, which, in turn, improves the baby’s fine motor skills.
What If the Baby Doesn’t Creep?
If you notice that your baby is not creeping, you can involve your little one in various activities and games that involve creeping and crawling. Activities, such as tumbling, rocking, spinning, and rolling, stimulate the cerebellum, thus, proving helpful in inhibiting primitive reflexes and muscle tone development of your little one.
Do Premature Babies Creep?
Yes, premature babies creep, too. However, the only difference would be the time. For instance, if a baby is born after a full term, they may start creeping at around 6 months of age. On the other hand, if a baby is born approximately 7 to 8 weeks before the due date, they may start creeping at around eight months of age. However, by the time your baby is around 2 years of age, they will be at par with other kids, and there may not be any delays.
Your baby is unique and develops at their own pace; make sure you do not compare your baby with others and let them achieve the milestones when they are ready.
References/Resources:
1. TABLE 3: Developmental Milestones; Pediatrics in Review; https://depts.washington.edu/dbpeds/Screening%20Tools/Devt%20Milestones%20Table%20(B-6y)%20PIR%20(Jan2016).msg.pdf
2. Lagerspetz. K., Nygåkd. M, Strandvik. C; The effects of training in crawling on the motor and mental development of infants; Scand. J. Psychol; Wiley Online Library; https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1467-9450.1971.tb00623.x, September 1971
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When Do Babies Start To Play With Toys
Following the hectic daily nursing cycle, a newborn baby is tiring for every mother. A mother knows the value of waiting for their babies to interact with them, yes, mothers start talking to their babies from day one, but they don’t get any response. Kids start responding when they get something to play with and begin understanding the actions initially. The process is gradual and takes time.
In this article, we are going to discuss the growth of kids over time and the role of toys in it. We shall be providing you with crucial information regarding the kind of toys kids should play with. Let’s get started.
When Does a Baby Start Playing With Toys?
We cannot deny the fact that during the first few months from the day the baby is born, the babies only play with their mother, father, and other family members. It is because they are too small to observe the world and things around them during that time.
After some months, things shift, and babies start playing with the things present around them. The age of a newborn baby decides the timing of playing with toys. To make it easy for you, we have categorized the age of a baby in the initial months from their birth to their first birthday. Have a look at the months when the baby is ready to play with particular toys.
1. Birth to two Months Old
A mother should know that the upcoming two months should belong to the newborn only after the baby’s birth. During this time, they need their mother to play with. Spending time with your baby, holding them, playing with them, and making them smile should be a priority. This period is one of the most beautiful phases of parenting.
Make sure that you are with them most of the time. During this period, when their senses are growing, you can bring toys with very soft sounds and vibrant and beautiful colors, which cannot harm the baby anyway. You can buy hanging toys for their cradle, like soft birds, rattles, etc. Keep toys at least 8-9 inches away from them.
2. 2 to 4 Months Old
During this period, your baby can still play with their previous toys, but now you can introduce them to more new toys. Old vibrant colored rattles, soft toys, colorful playing mats, and many other toys can be added to their toys section.
Try to look for the toys which will make them happy just by a glance, and the toys should not have sharp edges. Simply saying, look for the best quality kids-friendly toys.
3. 4 to 6 Months Old
A 4 to 6 months old baby starts developing some strength, and now they can pass, grab, and hit things with their hand movements. This is the best time to introduce them to toys that make sounds when they squeeze or toys that they can hit with their hands, like softballs.
A 4-6 month toddler puts everything they see around them inside their mouth. Hence, before buying toys, check whether the toy you bring is safe for them if they take it inside their mouth. You need to keep small toys that can choke them if they gulp them away from kids.
4. 6 to 12 Months Old
During this period, you will observe that your baby is growing very fast, get some new toys and observe them playing. New toys can include toys that they can grab and throw, hold and shake with their hands, toys to enhance their understanding, and much more.
Apart from the toys mentioned above, you should also bring some toys which they can use to stand up and take their first steps. In this period, they will start taking the support of objects around them to move by crawling or walking after a few months. Moving objects with sound and vibrant colors would be a great pick to help them move toward the toy.
What Toys Should Baby Play With?
As babies go through different growth phases, they learn different skills over that time. In fact, babies learn the most during their initial years. The toys you offer your babies should be helpful for them to learn through this rapid growth period.
For instance, right after the birth, the toys you offer to your baby should be focused on stimulating their senses for the first few months. Some of the best toys that you can offer an infant are as follows:
Toys with different textures
Toys that produce music
Tiny rattles
Unbreakable crib mirrors
As the baby grows and develops skills, they would need toys that can assist their skills development. These toys should be attractive to grab the infant’s attention so that you can successfully teach them the relationships between the cause and the effect. The following are some ideal toys for babies who are 3 to 6 months old:
Soft, colorful balls
Stuffed animals
Sensory toys
Between the age of 7 months to 1 year, you can offer your baby toys that allow them to engage in exciting and new things. Toys should be more of a stimulus for your kids during this period. The following could be the best toy for the proper development of your baby:
Stacking blocks
Walkers
Musical toys
Rolling toys
Factors To Consider When Buying Toys for Your Baby
Once you have figured out when can newborns can start playing with toys and what toys are appropriate for their age group, you must shop for the right toys. It is suggested never to buy random toys you see in toy shops for your baby. There are a lot of factors that should be taken into consideration before buying a toy for your baby. Following are the factors to consider when buying toys for your baby:
Colors: It is very important to introduce your baby to colors in the initial months after the birth. During this time, the only colors they can see and differentiate between are white and black only. Bringing toys with vibrant colors will be appealing enough for the kids.
Sounds: Your baby won’t need anyone if the toy they have produces sound. They will enjoy playing with them and creating the sound. Make sure the sound is not too loud.
Movement: Another factor to consider in a toy is whether it moves or not. Your baby will always pick a moving toy over a steady toy, as they find such toys more engaging.
Material: Checking the material quality is very important while buying a toy for your kid. Search for toys that are made of kid-friendly material. For a small baby, search for vibrant teether toys.
There is no such fixed time when a kid starts playing with toys, and not all the babies are the same. Some kids start early, and some do late, but as a mother, you should know that your kid has something to play with and learn at an appropriate time.
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7 Ways to Aid Your Baby’s Ability to Reason
In collaboration with Nestlé Start Healthy Stay Healthy.
A baby’s world is fascinating. Everything is new, and just waiting to be explored by tiny fingers and big eyes! A baby’s environment is filled with things and people that he can touch, see, smell, hear, and even taste. Babies use these senses as the primary way to understand the workings of their world: how Mom’s skin smells, how Dad’s arms feel, how milk tastes, how soft the blanket is, how cool the floor feels, how firm a building block is, and so much more.
A baby’s brain develops the most from birth till the age of three. Millions and millions of synapses are formed in the brain as the baby discovers, learns, and understands new things, from how to crawl on his little legs, to how to work a jack-in-the-box with his hands, to how to hold a spoon and feed himself. Thus, this age range of 0 to 3 is crucial when it comes to helping your baby develop certain important cognitive skills, like logic and reasoning, problem-solving, and decision making.
It is beneficial to a child if he is able to learn such skills at an early age, so that as he grows up and becomes of school-going, homework-doing, and exam-giving age, he is able to overcome educational barriers, and can grasp new concepts easily.
Are there some ways that you, as a parent, can help your baby develop logic skills early on? Yes, absolutely! Read on to find out!
1. Dive into sensory exploration.
Give your baby different objects that feel different to the touch. Let him touch a ball of soft cotton and then a mildly rough woollen sweater, and feel the difference between the textures. You can do this with smooth and spiked balls, the sticky and smooth sides of tape, soft and crinkly leaves, and more!
2. Use your words.
Talk to your baby – about everything! Whether it’s playtime, dinner time, bed or bath time, talk to your little one about what he’s doing and what’s he playing with. Use the correct words for his toys, such as ball, car, book, doll, and use the right action verbs, like eating, running, reading, playing. This will help him associate the word to the object in hand or action being done, and he’ll pick up on your verbal cues quickly enough.
3. Teach object permanence.
In other words, show him that even if something is hidden, it doesn’t mean that it has disappeared. This is an important milestone to cross, and will help your little one enhance his reasoning skills at a young age. Play simple games like hide and seek or peek-a-boo, which can prove to be delightful and full of giggles for both of you!
4. Solve problems together.
It is important to teach your little one how to go about solving a problem on his own. It can be as simple as learning how to take the lid off his toy box, or how to remove a book from a short pile. Lead by example, and demonstrate how to fix these little obstacles. Then, let him try on his own. When he succeeds, the memory of it will stay with him, and he’ll be more inclined to try by himself the next time.
5. Encourage all sorts of exploration.
Children are naturally curious. Letting them safely explore their curiosity is highly beneficial for them, as it aids in healthy brain development. Let your baby roll, shake, rattle, bang, feel, and poke his toys to figure out how they work. This will also lead him to understand cause and effect: shaking a rattle produces a soft sound, banging metal spoons together makes a loud sound, shaking a ball makes lights appear, squeezing a teddy bear feels soft and squishy, etc.
6. Make nutrition a priority.
There’s a direct linkage to nutrition and brain development in the early years. Proper nutrition makes a way for nutrients and energy that is required to aid brain function and development in a way no amount of external stimulus can. On the flipside, nutritional deficiencies in earlier years can drastically affect cognition and ability to reason. Diets high in saturated fats and trans fats can impact learning and memory too. Building strong and healthy food habits in the first few years of your child’s life can set the tone for a healthier and smarter future.
7. Make habits out of these behaviours.
It’s not enough to engage in these developmental behaviours at only some points in a day or week – everything you do for your baby’s brain development should be incorporated into a daily routine, and repeated over a long period of time. It is these repetitive activities that ensure the long-term benefits enjoyed by a child with healthy cognitive development. For example, include sensory exploration in bath time, teach object permanence during playtime, and read picture books at bedtime.
Helping your baby develop his logic and reasoning skills at a young age will prepare him for school, social situations with peers, and eventual obstacles in academics in terms of brand-new concepts and knowledge. He will be better able to understand how things work, how to solve problems if he doesn’t know how something works, and how to make decisions that will serve him best in a given situation.
And, there’s a bonus to be had, too, as spending this wonderful time playing with your baby will create a strong bond of love and friendship, and your little one will feel safe, happy, and confident in your presence! It’s an absolute win-win!
In case of any further questions and clarifications regarding your child’s development, health, and nutrition, do get in touch with your paediatrician.
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