Newborn Ages 0 – 3 Months

Baby-Proofing

Even before your child is born, you sould begin to babyproof your house. Although they seem unable to do much damage, it is surprising how much daily household items can be a risk to the youngest of children, even before they can walk!

Some of the basic baby proofing ideas are listed here:

• removing all breakables and choking hazards from coffee tables, end tables, and counters that are within reach.
• secure heavy, tall furniture that could be tipped over by climbing, such as bookshelves and wardrobes.
• fireplace gates
• cover sharp edges of furniture with edge and corner cushions.
• Using electrical outlet covers which fit over outlets that are constantly in use, such as for lamps, or a television. For all unused outlets, outlet plugs fit inside outlets or outlet plates slide over outlets.
• Making sure that window blinds and curtain cords are notwithin the child’s reach, as this is a strangulation hazard.
• window guards for windows that can be opened more than 4’’, even on the first floor!
• Make sure that all cords are hidden, or taped down so that they cannot be tangled up
• Getting safety locks for all cupboards and drawers, especially in the kitchen and bathroom
• Use back burners and be sure to point pan handles back away from the front of the stove.
• Use stove guards and stove knob covers and locks.
• put locks on the refrigerator and freezer
• Move all cleaners, medicines, and cosmetics out of reach, and out of lower drawers and cabinets. Place them in a high cabinet or a drawer with locks
• Safety door knob covers for rooms such as bathrooms, exits, or closets, and computer rooms
• baby gates in front of stairs
• banister shield for lofts, balconies, porches and stair ways
• Safety locks for toilet seat covers
• Putting trash in a cupboard or in a covered trash can
• move plants out of reach or cover soil with mesh. Some plants and fertilizer are harmful when eaten
• keep electronics (TV, VCR, DVD, computers, printers, etc) out of reach and behind doors or cupboards.
• once your child begins standing, around six months, it is important to lower the crib mattress so that they do not climb or fall out in the night. You can also use a crib tent, which is a mesh canopy that attaches to the top of the crib preventing the child from climbing out.

Milestones by 3 Months

By three months, an infant should be able to lift their head while lying on their stomach. They should be smiling and cooing.Visually, they should be able to track with an object within their line of sight, such as a toy moving from side to side slowly. They should be able to maintain eye contact with familiar faces. They have developed color perception.

Infants begin to make more noises; babbling, cooing, and laughing. They begin to recognize faces of those who they see on a regular basis and their attachment increases to those who provide for their basic needs. They are more aware of what is going on around them, and they begin to turn their head toward noises.