Your Baby's 2nd Month

Motor Skills

Watch what happens when Baby is on his back and you dangle an irresistible toy above him. Compared to last month, his movements are now becoming more fluid. He may stretch to reach an interesting object and try to bat at it. If you offer baby a rattle he may be able to hold it for a short amount of time in his small fist. Give it a little shake. Babies respond to such stimulation differently. Some may watch and listen in wonder. Others may find it too stimulating and begin to cry. Babies are unique and process information in their own individual ways.

Smile!

By the end of the second month, Baby may be giving you an adorable, toothless smile in response to your own. If it hasn't happened yet, it will surely come soon. Watch how your baby's whole face lights up when you smile at him. At the same time, he may move his arms, lift his brows, or coo. Finally, after weeks of taking care of your precious baby at all times during the day, Baby rewards you with this momentous milestone. Keep smiling and talking to your baby; he loves to watch your face and talk to you through his expressions.

Tummy Time

Putting Baby to sleep on his back is a very important discovery towards the prevention of SIDS. When your baby is awake and interested in playing, spending time on his tummy is still important for development. Becoming comfortable on tummy will help baby develop strong neck muscles to hold up that heavy head.

By the end of this month, your baby will probably be strong enough to hold up his head for moments to scan the room. Development works like steps. By building a strong neck, Baby can hold up his head. Then while lying on his tummy, he will start to push up with arms, building a strong upper body and back. This will help him one day to sit. These muscles will also help him learn to move and eventually pull up to a stand.

You can spend time with your baby on his tummy by lying down next to him. Talk to him so he knows you are there and supporting his development. Also, putting him on mats with interesting textures, bright colors or ones that play different sounds will make lying on his tummy even more intriguing.

Some babies are not comfortable on their stomachs and may fuss. Respond to your baby as you think is appropriate. You are the expert concerning your child. The sound of your voice alone may be a comfort. Others need the connection of a parent's warm arms.