3 Month Old Baby: What to Expect
At three months old, your baby is growing and developing rapidly. This stage is a crucial period for physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Here's what you can expect from your 3-month-old baby:
Physical Development
At three months, your baby is becoming more active and alert. They will start to:
- Lift their head while on their stomach: This is a significant milestone, as it indicates strong neck and back muscles.
- Hold toys: Your baby will start to grasp and hold toys, showing hand-eye coordination and finger dexterity.
- Bring hands to midline: Your baby will bring their hands to the middle of their body, a sign of improved hand-eye coordination and motor skills.
Cognitive Development
Three-month-old babies are curious and starting to make sense of their surroundings. They will:
- Recognize familiar faces: Your baby will start to recognize familiar faces, including yours, and may even smile when they see you.
- Imitate sounds: Your baby will begin to imitate sounds and facial expressions, indicating an understanding of communication.
- Follow moving objects: Your baby will follow moving objects with their eyes, showing improved tracking and attention skills.
Emotional Development
At three months, your baby is learning to regulate their emotions and respond to stimuli. They will:
- Show interest in play: Your baby will start to enjoy playtime and may even initiate play with you.
- Calm down with comfort: Your baby will begin to calm down when comforted, such as when they're held or rocked.
- Express excitement and delight: Your baby will start to show excitement and delight when they see something they enjoy, such as a toy or a familiar person.
Tips for Parents
Here are some tips to support your 3-month-old baby's development:
- Provide plenty of tummy time: Tummy time helps strengthen your baby's neck and back muscles.
- Engage in interactive play: Play with your baby regularly, using toys and facial expressions to stimulate their senses.
- Respond to your baby's cues: Pay attention to your baby's emotional cues and respond accordingly, helping them develop emotional regulation skills.
Remember, every baby develops at their own pace. If you have concerns about your baby's development, always consult with your pediatrician.
