Baby's First Year Milestones: Second and Third Month

The first three months of your baby's life is exciting and can be challenging at times. There is a new human being in your home, fresh routines and schedules. Your days and nights are consumed with feeding, sleeping, diaper changes and nurturing your baby all while developing a new rhythm and way a being in your home. During this time, it is important to feel supported and informed while you journey into parenthood.

Second and Third Month Developmental Milestones

By 3 months old you are seeing your baby move, eat and communicate more and more. It is exciting to witness your 2-3 month old baby develop. Wanting to ensure your baby is healthy and growing on time is normal and you deserve the comfort that comes with knowing. Common developmental milestones are said to be experienced on average by 75% of babies and should only act as a guideline for your baby's growth. Every baby is unique and will develop at their own pace.  

As your 2-3 month old baby develops, you may notice several new growth milestones:

• Holds head up while laying on tummy
• Begins to move both arms and legs
• Opens and closes hands
• Communication
• Baby begins to coo and mimic sounds
• Reacts to familiar sound
• Watches you or an object as it moves
• Makes eye contact with you

Growth Milestones for Babies 2-3 Months Old     

You may notice your 2-3 month old baby is increasingly hungry and growing, fast! At this stage, babies can only consume mothers milk or formula. If you have chosen to breastfeed you may be nursing every 3-4 hours as opposed to bottle-feeding 5 ounce bottles, around 6-8 times a day. Your baby receives enough hydration and doesn’t even need water until introducing healthy, fresh and organic solid foods!

How do you know your baby is consuming enough nutrition? Simply check in with their weight. Your little love should be growing and gaining weight at a healthy rate. 

What is a healthy rate?

Your baby has likely grown 1-1 1/2 inches taller and gained up to 2 pounds per month since birth. It is normal for babies to grow more or less than average. If you have any concerns, please contact your Pediatrician. 

Health Milestones for Baby 2-3 Months Old

Restful sleep is important for your 2-3 month old baby’s development and health. When your baby is well rested, your own well-being benefits too! Understanding your baby’s sleep patterns can help you better plan and anticipate the flow of each day. The time your baby spends sleeping may vary from day to day. At 3 month olds your tiny is sleeping about 15 hours a day, 8-9 overnight and three 2 hour naps. Remember these times are averages and every tiny human is unique.

There are several vaccinations available for babies from birth to 3 months old. To make well informed decisions for your baby and family please schedule an appointment to speak with your Pediatrician or Family Care Doctor for more information regarding health and vaccinations for your baby.

Activities for 2-3 Month Old Babies

Your baby is moving around more and showing interest in their surroundings. There are plenty of healthy activities you can incorporate into your day to support your baby’s development and encourage exploration and play. 

Healthy activities for your baby include:

• tummy time 
• read colorful books
• sing out loud
• play music and dance
• talk and interact with baby
• be silly, encourage laughter  
• walks outside
• loving touch
• have your baby look into a mirror
• hold onto different textured toys

Tips for Parents

The journey into parenthood will present new challenges and shift your priorities at times. You are learning to navigate caring for your new baby by pouring your love and energy into your newest family member. While exploring this new balancing act, it can be easy to put your personal needs aside. It is important to become aware of your limits and ensure your basic needs are being met. When you focus on your well-being you are more equipped to care for your baby’s needs, too! 

• Ask for help! 
• Delegate tasks and responsibilities for a short time
• Create a peaceful environment at home
• Free your space of clutter
• Connect with other new parents
• Surround yourself with a positive and supportive community
• Stay hydrated and get 30 minutes of sunshine a day
• Sit outside or take easy walks
• Let go of expectations to have it all together, all of the time .  

All babies and families are unique! Stay curious about your baby’s development and know that you are doing your BEST and that is enough!

Your tiny human and family’s peace, happiness and health is important. A deep understanding of what to expect naturally creates an environment with less worry. If you have any concerns about your 2-3 month old baby’s development please follow up with your Pediatrician for guidance. Your doctor will be able to answer any questions or concerns.