Encouraging Baby Development - The First Year

by Jennifer Shakeel

The purpose of this article is really to inform and remind all parents of what to expect in the first year of your baby’s life. It was also a nice refresher for me, being that there is a 10.5 year difference between our middle child and our baby. While doctors and friends say, “Oh you’ve done this before,” with such a gap in between our children I feel like a first time mom, again. So read on and learn what to expect and how you can encourage your baby to grow and develop.

In one year, a baby undergoes more development than he will ever experience for the rest of his life. You can look forward to plenty of excitement as you watch your baby first lift his head, smile, and speak. To keep his motivation high, give him constant positive feedback for each new development. Each month of life has its developmental milestones, so use this guide to monthly milestones to chart your baby’s growth.

The first month after your baby is born is fairly uneventful, at least as far as milestone are concerned. Your baby will spend the majority of his time sleeping, unless he is colicky, or is like my daughter who thinks that sleep is for “sissies.” However, when he is awake, you may notice that he is physically responding to his environment. He will gaze at objects around him, and move his arms and legs in a jerky way. He may also grasp your finger, and if you stroke his cheek he will physically react. More on Encouraging Baby Development - The First Year