Early Years
New to motherhood and excited to be a parent, I only wanted what was best for my growing babies. Eagerly waiting to experience every memorable phase and with that in mind, building a strong foundation in bringing them up, was part of the plan.
Considering all the ways that was necessary to help them develop, a system was put in place which included Health, Safety, Nutrition, Self Esteem, Education and Socialisation.
Looking back, I am reminded of the developmental process that followed and how rapidly my children’s growth took place.
Health & Nutrition
· Babies start their initial growth drinking milk, sleeping and crying a lot.
· A scheduled routine put in place helps babies adjust to their new home and environment.
· If baby is drinking enough milk and there are lots of diaper change, then your baby is growing.
· Never heat a baby bottle in the microwave or shake the bottle well and check the temperature before feeds.
· When babies are allowed to move or wriggle, their muscles get stronger which strengthens
the head and allows for rolling, sitting and crawling in good time.
Paediatric Visits
· Paediatric visits which include immunisations, appear endless, one week, two weeks,
one month, two, four, six, nine, 12 months, but doctors need to check on babies:
o feeding patterns, either breast or bottle
o growth on weight, height and head circumference
o physical examination on normal development, including eyesight and hearing.
o parents on answering their questions and to offer advice.
· Check with your doctor before starting solid food with babies.
Safety & Security
Safety
· Handle babies gently especially the head and never shake them vigorously.
· Babies should sleep on their back at first until they are able to roll over by themselves.
· Do not leave them alone in the bathtub, with a child or a pet and use a small baby
bathtub with water.
· Always keep emergency numbers on hand plus knowledge on infant first aid or
CPR will be an advantage.
Security
· Keep one hand on baby if they sleep on your bed and have clothes and diaper
change within easy reach.
· A rear-facing infant car seat must be properly-installed when transporting babies in cars.
· Baby-proof your home once babies can move around, plug outlet covers, lock drawers
and toilets, install corner guards, keep small objects out of reach, and use baby gates for
the stairs.
· Babies will try to walk or take their first steps by 12 months and sometimes earlier or later.
1-2 Years
· By at least 2 years, babies will be walking alone, pulling and pushing toys.
· They will start to run, kick a ball and stand on tiptoe.
· Climbing up or down stairs and on huge objects will excite babies as they test their
limits to become independent.
Self Esteem, Education and Socialisation
Self Esteem
- Give babies lots of love and attention.
- Children who feel loved and secure will form a strong bond with their parents which will make them feel more safe to explore the world around them.
Education
- As the months go by babies will start to become observant and curious but will track everything around them including different colours.
- Make sure you keep small objects away from babies mouth to avoid choking.
- Both curious and communicative these are early signs of babies physical including language needs that requires stimulation.
Socialisation
- Little ones will show signs of communication by smiling, cooing, giggling and laughing.
- Respond to all their needs, talk, play, read and sing to them.
- Babies will also start to understand several words around 12 months.
1-2 Years
· Between 1-2 years, babies will start using short phrases and follow simple instructions.
· Children will understand what common household objects are and point to objects
when they are named.
· You will find that babies will love to scribble or colour on paper or just about anywhere.
· Your baby will be able to sort objects by colour or shape and they will also love to
copy the behaviour of others.
· Toddlers will enjoy the company of other children and enjoy activities like building blocks, etc.
The best way to reminisce is to take lots of snapshots and make sure you video every special moment.
Help your child learn through play and be patient while you supervise their independence.
Remember that every child develops at their own pace.
Children may reach their milestones earlier or later but f you are concerned about your child’s growth or development, speak to your doctor.
