Having access to a realistic set of guidelines and expectations will reassure any new or seasoned parent that their baby is growing and developing within a normal range.  It is important to realise however, that every baby develops at his/her own pace and progresses at different rates.  Every normally developed baby will develop in the same sequence, for example, he will not walk before he can sit.  If your baby is calm, relaxed and contented then it is most likely that he will receive the stimulation you provide for him and his motor skills, emotional and social development and language skills will be enhanced accordingly.  When your baby has reached the developmental milestones in the guides you seek for advice you will be able to stimulate your baby with appropriate activities and baby educational toys.

As stated by The Youth and Women’s Health Service, Government of South Australia, the following summary of information about child development provides a list of Baby Milestones for age Newborn to 3 months and is as follows:

Remember how you care for your baby will sometimes reflect on what your baby does and all babies will develop at different rates so it is important not to compare him with others of the same age who may be doing things that your baby isn’t.  If you are concerned about your baby’s development then you should seek paediatric advice or consult with your local child health nurse or doctor.

Below is a list of appropriate toys to stimulate your developing newborn – 3 months:

There are so many tempting toys available to buy these days but your newborn doesn’t require an army full to keep him happy or fully engaged.  In fact if you provide him with too many toys he will most probably feel overwhelmed, cry and quickly lose interest.

Without the aid of toys you may also play with your newborn and young baby through your interaction with him.  He will learn your expressions and soon will mimic them in response to you.  Songs such as “This little Piggy” and “Round and Round the Garden”… are great nursery rhymes to interact with your baby as you tickle his toes and make a circle in his hand.  Through the repetition of them he will soon learn to anticipate what comes next.  During bath time, your baby may like to be splashed on his tummy, you will soon know if he doesn’t.  Your baby will also love to be massaged especially after bath time with a little light oil. 

Your baby will be your developmental milestone guide.  Refer to your books for reference which may reassure you that you are both on track with what you are providing him and how he is responding. Instinctively you will know what he wants and when he wants it.

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