Baby

Some parents are eager for their baby to walk. They think that a baby walker will help the process along. In fact, walkers make learning to walk a slower process. They strengthen muscles in the lower leg. But they don’t help develop muscles in the upper leg and hip—the muscles most needed in walking. Walkers also make getting around too easy. They don’t help babies … [Read more...] about Baby Walkers

Your baby wants to be with you. You are the person your baby knows and loves best. He knows when you are not with him. This creates a fear that you will not return. This distress is called “separation anxiety.” It is an important part of growing up. Help your baby separate from you. Avoid leaving when he is hungry, tired or sick. Ask the caregiver or baby-sitter to … [Read more...] about Separation Anxiety

Your baby has a temperament. Temperament can make a person behave in a certain way. For example, one baby may cry and hide at the sight of a large animal. Another baby may be cautious and interested. And a third may be fearless and try to play with the animal right away. The first temperament is sometimes called “slow-to-warm-up.” You may hear the second … [Read more...] about Discovering Your Baby’s Temperament

Help your baby develop his brain with these activities: Support and respect your baby’s unique personality. Hold, rock and touch your baby. Stroke your baby’s skin to increase brain activity. Respond to your baby’s likes and dislikes. You will be able to understand his body language long before he talks. Talk, read and sing to your … [Read more...] about Helping Babies Build Brains

Just before their first birthdays, babies learn the meaning of “no.” They spend lots of time shaking their heads “no”—even when they mean“yes!” This may be frustrating for you. But it means your baby is growing up. He is becoming independent. He feels secure enough that he’s sometimes able to risk your disapproval. He’s beginning to learn right … [Read more...] about Welcome to “NO!”