Enjoying Your Baby, from Day One to Year One

Around three months, I noticed that Noah showed a sudden awareness of the world, as if he was starting to understand what I was saying. I too was more alert as he began to sleep longer stretches. Take advantage of this curiosity and level of interest.

• If your baby hasn't liked the stroller until now, three months is a good time to try again. His new comfort can make outings to the zoo or the park much easier, and he will drink in the different sights.
  
  
• Ask for a booth at a restaurant and put the infant seat next to you or your spouse. You may be daunted by eating out at this point, but it will seem easy in retrospect once your baby starts to move.
  
  
• Perform an impromptu puppet show among stuffed animals—witty dialogue not necessary.
  
  
• Give your baby a tour of the house: light switches, photographs, cabinet hinges. Right now he is a willing audience for just about anything.