What to expect in your newborn's behavior

Caring for your infant can be difficult and frustrating at times. Infants are usually easy to please, and like to be fed and kept clean and dry. Crying is the way your infant communicates, but sometimes it may seem like she cries for no reason. Infants are fragile and vulnerable, and you need to be gentle and patient with them. They can be fun, too. Your infant is growing and changing every day, and there are many ways you can communicate and play with her.

Activities to do with your infant

·  Baby talk. Your infant loves to hear your voice, so talk, sing, and babble to him. You can even have a ‘conversation’ with him by answering when he makes a sound or babbles. Pay attention to him when he is talking to you, as this will encourage his speech development.

·  Sights and sounds. Infants have the ability to follow things with her eyes, even though at first they can only see certain colors. Your infant likes contrast, and brightly colored mobiles or soft, oversized books are things she might like to look at. Infants prefer human faces to anything else, and shortly after your infant is born she will get used to your voice and begin to focus on your face. As your infant gets older, she will become more interactive and love new sounds. She will like toys like rattles. You can make your own musical instrument by filling a small, plastic container with dried beans. Close and seal it securely with strong tape and let your infant play with it.

·  Bond with your baby. Infants like to be touched and feel comforted when they are held. Do not be afraid of spoiling your infant by picking him up when he is crying. Massaging your infant is a great way to bond with him. Placing your infant on his back, massage in circular movements starting with his arms and hands, then legs and feet, and then his belly. Turn him over, and massage his back and buttocks with the same motions. Be sure to use a light, gentle motion.

·  Tummy time. When your baby is between three and six months of age, it is important to give her some time on her stomach to exercise her neck muscles and let him begin reaching. Place him on a soft surface, like a blanket, carpet, or mat. Put toys in front of him, and let him try to reach for them.

·  Be sensitive. Your infant is fragile, so be sure to support her head and neck when you hold her or lay her down. Be careful when you play with her, because shaking her vigorously can hurt her. Sometimes infants need their time and space. Too much light or too many sounds may scare or over stimulate your infant at times and make her cry. She may need a break from playing, and may just want to be held.