Getting to Know Your Baby: Baby's Second Month Guide
Time has flown. Your little bundle of joy has been a part of
your home for more than four weeks now. The new dad and mum are
now more relaxed, confident, and really enjoy their new
responsibilities (at least most of the time). Here are a few
pointers on what to expect in baby's second month.
Semblance of order
Baby is no longer attached to mom's breast all the time. A feed
every 2-3 hours usually keeps her satisfied.
Spitting of milk after a feed is normal. Make sure you burp your
baby after every feed.
Your two month-old baby most probably now sleeps 3-4 hours
between nighttime feedings. She has definite waking hours during
the day, which means mom and dad too can work out a routine.
She knows you!
In baby's second month, she focuses her eyes better, and can
follow an object in an arc about six to eight inches from her
face. She does not actually recognize your face, but definitely
knows your touch, scent and voice. When you coo to her or talk
in gentle soothing tones, she starts to make babbling sounds in
response.
She enjoys smiling faces, smiles in return, and has a whole
range of facial expressions.
I am a big(ger) girl now!
Baby has lost some of her early reflexes and has more control
over her movements now. When placed on her stomach she can lift
her head for brief periods. If your baby sucks her fists and
fingers, let her enjoy the activity. It is too early to picture
your two month-old walking to school with her thumb in her mouth.
Bath time can be playtime for your two-month old baby. Trimming
baby's nails is best done after a bath (with tiny
scissors/infant nail clippers).
To use or not to use
If you plan to introduce the bottle, baby's second month is the
perfect time. Breast may be best. But if you have milk supply
issues or have to go back to work, bottle-feeding might be
necessary. A combination of both can work well too.
Whether to use a dummy or pacifier is a tough choice to make.
Make sure baby's nursing patterns are well established before
you do use one.
Hello Doctor
A regular well-baby check-up is scheduled in baby's second
month. Your doctor will allay any doubts you have and discuss
safety issues like placing baby on her back to sleep, the need
for an infant car seat and all the other questions you have.
Your baby will get oral polio drops and some shots this month,
most probably a combination of the triple antigen, Influenza and
Hepatitis B. These shots usually cause a little fever, which can
make some babies cranky. Your doctor will prescribe a fever
medication for your baby.
Daddy's girl too!
Dads can involve themselves in every aspect of childcare though
they tend to do most things differently. Dad holds baby in his
own way, perhaps a little too firmly, but she loves it!
Baby's second month sees her turning from a cute unresponsive
newborn into a tiny interactive person. Watch your little bundle
of joy grow and learn a host of things along the way.