http://www.babiestoday.com/articles/guiding-babys-development/brain-builders-2800/
This site has some great ideas for fun things to do with baby to stimulate his learning process. I had fun reading about the different things to do. Hope you do too!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Saturday, March 28, 2009
12 Weeks Old!
What's the real reason why Baby is so calm with Mom and so fussy with Dad? She smells like food—and comfort. Read what dads can do to gain favor in week 12.
Baby's Brain in Week 12He may never make a peep about it, but by now, Dad might feel that Baby prefers Mom—and that may bum him out. When he holds Baby, she may squirm and look around for Mom. And when passed to Mom, Baby may quiet almost instantly.
The big secret? The only real preference that Baby has for Mommy is that she, if nursing, is Baby's sole source for food, which she knows she needs to survive. Even when not nursing, a breastfeeding mom's scent provides comfort as her child associates it with breast milk. Ultimately, Baby may seem more relaxed with Mom over Dad because she knows, instinctively, that Mom equals food.
Yet other than nursing, dads are fully capable of all caregiving tasks: feeding from a bottle, burping, rocking, comforting, playing, and changing diapers. We now know that the messier the task he undertakes, the better Dad's chances are of having Baby cozy up to him.
What the Research ShowsResearchers wanted to know the difference between the dads whose children readily turned to them and those who didn't. They conducted a study that involved counting the diapers that the dads changed. For the daddies who took the time and got beyond the ick factor, changing diapers seemed to secure the child's attachment to Dad as well as to Mom: The more diapers dads changed, the more babies turned to their fathers for comfort when distressed—even when mom was in the vicinity.
Week 12 Brain BoosterReally, there's nothing magical about diapering when it comes to solidifying the father-infant bond—the research doesn't suggest that men necessarily have a better technique or strategy that babies like better. What diapering does provide, however, is an interactive time for the child and diaperer to get well-acquainted. It's an intimate social time that familiarizes Baby with the person in charge of the task, thereby building her trust in that person.
And chances are, if Dad's changing lots of diapers, he's likely doing other things to care for his child as well, which leads to a stronger attachment. In about six months or so, Baby will identify a "primary attachment figure" (or figures)—someone she'll demand when she's distressed or needs care. For some children this person is definitely Mom; for others, it's either Mom or Dad.
So every solid effort Dad makes right now to care for Baby helps her feel safe with him. As she gets older, she will approach him for all sorts of needs, further developing their relationship. And not only that, but children are also more likely to reach their potential when they know Dad really cares.
Read More @ http://www.babyzone.com/baby/nurturing/baby_week_by_week/article/week-12-baby
Baby's Brain in Week 12He may never make a peep about it, but by now, Dad might feel that Baby prefers Mom—and that may bum him out. When he holds Baby, she may squirm and look around for Mom. And when passed to Mom, Baby may quiet almost instantly.
The big secret? The only real preference that Baby has for Mommy is that she, if nursing, is Baby's sole source for food, which she knows she needs to survive. Even when not nursing, a breastfeeding mom's scent provides comfort as her child associates it with breast milk. Ultimately, Baby may seem more relaxed with Mom over Dad because she knows, instinctively, that Mom equals food.
Yet other than nursing, dads are fully capable of all caregiving tasks: feeding from a bottle, burping, rocking, comforting, playing, and changing diapers. We now know that the messier the task he undertakes, the better Dad's chances are of having Baby cozy up to him.
What the Research ShowsResearchers wanted to know the difference between the dads whose children readily turned to them and those who didn't. They conducted a study that involved counting the diapers that the dads changed. For the daddies who took the time and got beyond the ick factor, changing diapers seemed to secure the child's attachment to Dad as well as to Mom: The more diapers dads changed, the more babies turned to their fathers for comfort when distressed—even when mom was in the vicinity.
Week 12 Brain BoosterReally, there's nothing magical about diapering when it comes to solidifying the father-infant bond—the research doesn't suggest that men necessarily have a better technique or strategy that babies like better. What diapering does provide, however, is an interactive time for the child and diaperer to get well-acquainted. It's an intimate social time that familiarizes Baby with the person in charge of the task, thereby building her trust in that person.
And chances are, if Dad's changing lots of diapers, he's likely doing other things to care for his child as well, which leads to a stronger attachment. In about six months or so, Baby will identify a "primary attachment figure" (or figures)—someone she'll demand when she's distressed or needs care. For some children this person is definitely Mom; for others, it's either Mom or Dad.
So every solid effort Dad makes right now to care for Baby helps her feel safe with him. As she gets older, she will approach him for all sorts of needs, further developing their relationship. And not only that, but children are also more likely to reach their potential when they know Dad really cares.
Read More @ http://www.babyzone.com/baby/nurturing/baby_week_by_week/article/week-12-baby
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Why does the Baby Cry?
Seven reasons babies cry and how to soothe them
Babies cry. There's no way to avoid it — it's one way they communicate.
Since your baby can't flat out tell you, you may worry, "How will I know what she wants?"
It can be difficult at first, but a large part of parenting is trial and error and you'll soon learn to anticipate her needs, read her cues, and wipe away her tears. Here are the most common reasons babies cry. If your little one is wailing, work your way down the list and chances are you'll find something that helps.
How can I tell why my baby is crying?
She's hungry
Once you learn to recognize the signs that your baby wants to eat — she'll fuss, make noises, and root around for your breast if you pick her up — you'll get pretty good at feeding her before she starts to really cry. Until then, checking to see if she's hungry is a good first step when your baby cries. Food might not stop her crying right away, but let her keep eating if she wants to. She'll stop once her stomach is full.
She needs a fresh diaper
Some babies let you know right away when they need to be changed. Others don't mind when their diapers are soiled — it's warm and comfortable to them. (Parents are often surprised when they pick up their infant and find she's been sitting in a dirty diaper and never made a sound.) Either way, this one is easy to check and simple to remedy.
She's too cold or hot
Newborns like to be bundled up and kept warm. (As a rule, they need to be wearing one more layer than you need to be comfortable.) So when your baby feels cold, like when you remove her clothes to change her, she'll express her discomfort by crying. You'll learn how to quickly change a diaper and wrap your baby back up. Be careful that you don't overdress her, since she's less likely to complain about being too warm than about being too cold and won't cry about it as vigorously.
She wants to be held
Babies need a lot of cuddling. They like to see their parents' faces, hear their voices, and listen to their heartbeats, and can even detect their unique smell (especially Mom's milk). After being fed, burped, and changed, many babies simply want to be held. You may wonder if you'll "spoil" your child by holding her so much, but during the first few months of life that isn't possible. Infants vary a lot in how much they want to be held. Some demand a lot of attention, while others can spend long periods of time sitting calmly by themselves. If your baby likes the attention, pick her up, wear her in a front carrier or sling, or place her next to you.
She can't take it anymore
While newborns often thrive on attention, they can easily become overstimulated and have a meltdown. You may find that your baby cries longer than usual after spending a holiday with many adoring family members or has periods at the end of each day when she seems to cry for no reason. Newborns have difficulty processing all the stimulation they receive — the lights, the noise, being passed from hand to hand — and can become overwhelmed by too much activity. Crying is their way of saying, "I've had enough." This usually happens when your baby is tired. Take her somewhere calm and quiet and let her vent for a while, and then see if you can get her to sleep.
She doesn't feel good
If you've just fed your baby and checked that she's comfortable (she can be troubled by something as subtle as a hair wrapped around her toe or a clothing tag that's poking her), but she's still crying, consider checking her temperature to make sure she isn't ill. The cry of a sick baby tends to be distinct from the hunger or frustration cry, and you'll soon learn when your baby's cries "just don't sound right" and she needs to be taken to the doctor.
None of the above
Sometimes you might not be able to figure out what's wrong. Many newborns develop periods of fussiness when they're not easily soothed. These fussy periods can range from a few minutes of crying to full-blown colic. Colic is defined as inconsolable crying for at least three hours a day and at least three days a week. Even if your baby isn't crying this much, these episodes may be difficult for you. When all else fails, try the tips below.
Wrap her up and hold her closeNewborns like to feel as warm and secure as they did in the womb, so try swaddling your baby in a blanket, wearing her, or holding her against your shoulder. But be aware that some babies find swaddling or cuddling too constrictive and respond better to other forms of comfort such as rhythmic movement or sucking a pacifier.
Let her hear the rhythm
Babies are used to the sound of your heartbeat; that's another reason they love to be held close. You can also try playing soft music, singing a lullaby, or even putting her close to the rhythm of an electric fan or the white noise of a vacuum cleaner.
Put her in motion
Sometimes just the motion of carrying your baby will be enough to calm her. Other times, it may help to rock her gently in a rocking chair or swing, set her in her bouncy seat, or place her in her car seat on top of the dryer while it's on (the dryer's vibrations can cause her seat to move enough to fall off, so make sure you stay by her side while you do this!). You could also push her around outside in her stroller or take her for a ride in the car.
Massage her
Most babies love to be touched, so a massage might be just the thing to soothe your baby. Don't worry about not knowing the perfect movements — as long as they're gentle and slow, they should bring comfort. Also, try rubbing your baby's back or belly. This will help if she's having gas pains — which may be the problem with some colicky babies.
Let her suck on something
Even when she's not hungry, sucking can steady an infant's heart rate, relax her stomach, and calm her flailing limbs. Give her a pacifier or a finger to clamp onto and let her go to town.
Take care of yourself
No baby ever cried herself to death, but a crying baby can be very stressful for new parents. You're chronically sleep-deprived and may already be unsure about how to care for this baby. Mom's emotions are all over the place due to the hormonal changes she's going through. Dad may not be sure what role he should play in caring for the newborn or whether he'll ever get Mom's attention again. Add a crying baby to this scenario and many parents can become overwhelmed with feelings of incompetence.
If you know your baby's needs have been met and you've tried to calm her but she's still crying, it's time to take care of yourself so you don't get too exasperated:
• Put your baby down in a safe place and let her cry for a while.
• Call a friend or relative and ask for advice.
• Give yourself a break and let someone else take over.
• Put on quiet music to distract yourself.
• Take deep breaths.
• Remind yourself that nothing is wrong with your baby and crying won't hurt her — she may just need the release.
• Repeat to yourself, "She will outgrow this phase."
• Whatever you do, don't take your frustration out on your baby by shaking her.
Fortunately, babies (and their parents) are resilient and somehow manage to get through even the most difficult crying episodes.
From BabyCenter http://www.babycenter.com/0_seven-reasons-babies-cry-and-how-to-soothe-them_9790.bc?showAll=true
Babies cry. There's no way to avoid it — it's one way they communicate.
Since your baby can't flat out tell you, you may worry, "How will I know what she wants?"
It can be difficult at first, but a large part of parenting is trial and error and you'll soon learn to anticipate her needs, read her cues, and wipe away her tears. Here are the most common reasons babies cry. If your little one is wailing, work your way down the list and chances are you'll find something that helps.
How can I tell why my baby is crying?
She's hungry
Once you learn to recognize the signs that your baby wants to eat — she'll fuss, make noises, and root around for your breast if you pick her up — you'll get pretty good at feeding her before she starts to really cry. Until then, checking to see if she's hungry is a good first step when your baby cries. Food might not stop her crying right away, but let her keep eating if she wants to. She'll stop once her stomach is full.
She needs a fresh diaper
Some babies let you know right away when they need to be changed. Others don't mind when their diapers are soiled — it's warm and comfortable to them. (Parents are often surprised when they pick up their infant and find she's been sitting in a dirty diaper and never made a sound.) Either way, this one is easy to check and simple to remedy.
She's too cold or hot
Newborns like to be bundled up and kept warm. (As a rule, they need to be wearing one more layer than you need to be comfortable.) So when your baby feels cold, like when you remove her clothes to change her, she'll express her discomfort by crying. You'll learn how to quickly change a diaper and wrap your baby back up. Be careful that you don't overdress her, since she's less likely to complain about being too warm than about being too cold and won't cry about it as vigorously.
She wants to be held
Babies need a lot of cuddling. They like to see their parents' faces, hear their voices, and listen to their heartbeats, and can even detect their unique smell (especially Mom's milk). After being fed, burped, and changed, many babies simply want to be held. You may wonder if you'll "spoil" your child by holding her so much, but during the first few months of life that isn't possible. Infants vary a lot in how much they want to be held. Some demand a lot of attention, while others can spend long periods of time sitting calmly by themselves. If your baby likes the attention, pick her up, wear her in a front carrier or sling, or place her next to you.
She can't take it anymore
While newborns often thrive on attention, they can easily become overstimulated and have a meltdown. You may find that your baby cries longer than usual after spending a holiday with many adoring family members or has periods at the end of each day when she seems to cry for no reason. Newborns have difficulty processing all the stimulation they receive — the lights, the noise, being passed from hand to hand — and can become overwhelmed by too much activity. Crying is their way of saying, "I've had enough." This usually happens when your baby is tired. Take her somewhere calm and quiet and let her vent for a while, and then see if you can get her to sleep.
She doesn't feel good
If you've just fed your baby and checked that she's comfortable (she can be troubled by something as subtle as a hair wrapped around her toe or a clothing tag that's poking her), but she's still crying, consider checking her temperature to make sure she isn't ill. The cry of a sick baby tends to be distinct from the hunger or frustration cry, and you'll soon learn when your baby's cries "just don't sound right" and she needs to be taken to the doctor.
None of the above
Sometimes you might not be able to figure out what's wrong. Many newborns develop periods of fussiness when they're not easily soothed. These fussy periods can range from a few minutes of crying to full-blown colic. Colic is defined as inconsolable crying for at least three hours a day and at least three days a week. Even if your baby isn't crying this much, these episodes may be difficult for you. When all else fails, try the tips below.
Wrap her up and hold her closeNewborns like to feel as warm and secure as they did in the womb, so try swaddling your baby in a blanket, wearing her, or holding her against your shoulder. But be aware that some babies find swaddling or cuddling too constrictive and respond better to other forms of comfort such as rhythmic movement or sucking a pacifier.
Let her hear the rhythm
Babies are used to the sound of your heartbeat; that's another reason they love to be held close. You can also try playing soft music, singing a lullaby, or even putting her close to the rhythm of an electric fan or the white noise of a vacuum cleaner.
Put her in motion
Sometimes just the motion of carrying your baby will be enough to calm her. Other times, it may help to rock her gently in a rocking chair or swing, set her in her bouncy seat, or place her in her car seat on top of the dryer while it's on (the dryer's vibrations can cause her seat to move enough to fall off, so make sure you stay by her side while you do this!). You could also push her around outside in her stroller or take her for a ride in the car.
Massage her
Most babies love to be touched, so a massage might be just the thing to soothe your baby. Don't worry about not knowing the perfect movements — as long as they're gentle and slow, they should bring comfort. Also, try rubbing your baby's back or belly. This will help if she's having gas pains — which may be the problem with some colicky babies.
Let her suck on something
Even when she's not hungry, sucking can steady an infant's heart rate, relax her stomach, and calm her flailing limbs. Give her a pacifier or a finger to clamp onto and let her go to town.
Take care of yourself
No baby ever cried herself to death, but a crying baby can be very stressful for new parents. You're chronically sleep-deprived and may already be unsure about how to care for this baby. Mom's emotions are all over the place due to the hormonal changes she's going through. Dad may not be sure what role he should play in caring for the newborn or whether he'll ever get Mom's attention again. Add a crying baby to this scenario and many parents can become overwhelmed with feelings of incompetence.
If you know your baby's needs have been met and you've tried to calm her but she's still crying, it's time to take care of yourself so you don't get too exasperated:
• Put your baby down in a safe place and let her cry for a while.
• Call a friend or relative and ask for advice.
• Give yourself a break and let someone else take over.
• Put on quiet music to distract yourself.
• Take deep breaths.
• Remind yourself that nothing is wrong with your baby and crying won't hurt her — she may just need the release.
• Repeat to yourself, "She will outgrow this phase."
• Whatever you do, don't take your frustration out on your baby by shaking her.
Fortunately, babies (and their parents) are resilient and somehow manage to get through even the most difficult crying episodes.
From BabyCenter http://www.babycenter.com/0_seven-reasons-babies-cry-and-how-to-soothe-them_9790.bc?showAll=true
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Bath Time!
BATH TIME!
Big Sister helps with bath time
Today Big Sister got to help with the baby's bath. She sure was proud of being big enough to help.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Immunization Update
Allen had his appointment today~
He is still gaining an average of an ounce a day. Gettng to be a big boy~ his weight is right around the 50th percintile and his height just a bit above average. Everything looks good for him growth and development wise. 10 pounds 11 ounces and 23 1/2 inches long :)
So after all that it was shot time. He actually did really good with them. He cried for just a few seconds after each shot. This afternoon he seems to have a lot of tenderness in his legs and he is a bit fussy. I just gave him another dose of tylenol and I am hoping that it helps his fussiness and he can relax and get some rest...
He doesn't have to go back to the doctor for 2 months unless he gets sick. YAY! After all the doctor visits during the pregnancy and after he was born this is going to be nice.
He is still gaining an average of an ounce a day. Gettng to be a big boy~ his weight is right around the 50th percintile and his height just a bit above average. Everything looks good for him growth and development wise. 10 pounds 11 ounces and 23 1/2 inches long :)
So after all that it was shot time. He actually did really good with them. He cried for just a few seconds after each shot. This afternoon he seems to have a lot of tenderness in his legs and he is a bit fussy. I just gave him another dose of tylenol and I am hoping that it helps his fussiness and he can relax and get some rest...
He doesn't have to go back to the doctor for 2 months unless he gets sick. YAY! After all the doctor visits during the pregnancy and after he was born this is going to be nice.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Preparing for Baby's First Immunization
Tomorrow is Allen's first immunizations~ I had wanted to do a delayed immunization schedule, but have decided to do the traditional schedule. Although there is still a part of me that would rather go with a delayed schedule, I want to make sure my son is protected, especially as we are out and about in the community often, not just at home.
Anyway, I took a look at some things to help with this first set of shots for my little guy. Found this bit of advice...
Step1
Call your baby's pediatrician and ask if you can give your baby infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen before the vaccinations to ease the pain of the injections.
Step2
Create your list of questions to ask your baby's pediatrician and go over them before the vaccinations are given. That way, once the shots are over, you can dress your baby and take her home immediately.
Step3
Bring a favorite toy or rattle to the appointment. Distract the baby with it while the vaccinations are administered.
Step4
Ask your pediatrician if you can breastfeed or bottlefeed your baby immediately before or during the first vaccinations to comfort the baby during the shots.
Step5
Hold your baby in your arms during the vaccinations and gently stroke her head and face while her doctor administers the shots.
Step6
Expect that your baby will likely cry quite a bit following the first vaccinations and those that are in her future. Remember that the pain is short-lived, but that the positive effects of the shots will protect her for a lifetime.
For a list of the baby's immunization schedule go to http://www.cispimmunize.org/IZSchedule_Childhood.pdf
I will update tomorrow after his appointment~
Anyway, I took a look at some things to help with this first set of shots for my little guy. Found this bit of advice...
Step1
Call your baby's pediatrician and ask if you can give your baby infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen before the vaccinations to ease the pain of the injections.
Step2
Create your list of questions to ask your baby's pediatrician and go over them before the vaccinations are given. That way, once the shots are over, you can dress your baby and take her home immediately.
Step3
Bring a favorite toy or rattle to the appointment. Distract the baby with it while the vaccinations are administered.
Step4
Ask your pediatrician if you can breastfeed or bottlefeed your baby immediately before or during the first vaccinations to comfort the baby during the shots.
Step5
Hold your baby in your arms during the vaccinations and gently stroke her head and face while her doctor administers the shots.
Step6
Expect that your baby will likely cry quite a bit following the first vaccinations and those that are in her future. Remember that the pain is short-lived, but that the positive effects of the shots will protect her for a lifetime.
For a list of the baby's immunization schedule go to http://www.cispimmunize.org/IZSchedule_Childhood.pdf
I will update tomorrow after his appointment~
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Allen is hitting those developmental milestones~ rolling over, smiling on purpose, and holding up his head. I am excited about all this happening. Last night he was laying on his tummy on the sofa. He was cooing and chatting to me, holding his little head up and looking around and I looked at him and said "Mommy loves you Allen" and he got the biggest grin on his little face and his eyes lit up and it was one of those hold in your heart moments.
I find myself a little sad that his Daddy is missing some of these moments. Life really is not fair for parents or children when the parents are no longer together. A parent misses moments like these, the child misses the other parent being there and being excited about baby learning all these things. It makes me sad to know that one parents decisions can rob another parent and the child of so much together...
Well hopefully sharing baby's development stuff here will help to connect Daddy and Baby. Because one thing I know, Daddy loves Baby and Baby loves Daddy.
I find myself a little sad that his Daddy is missing some of these moments. Life really is not fair for parents or children when the parents are no longer together. A parent misses moments like these, the child misses the other parent being there and being excited about baby learning all these things. It makes me sad to know that one parents decisions can rob another parent and the child of so much together...
Well hopefully sharing baby's development stuff here will help to connect Daddy and Baby. Because one thing I know, Daddy loves Baby and Baby loves Daddy.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Two Month Old
YOUR COOING TWO-MONTH-OLDYour 2-month-old is now starting to pay more attention to her world. Most of all, baby loves the sound of your voice and follows it around the room with real concentration. Your different tones of voice fascinate her; she'll respond to your high-pitched, singsong tone just as readily as to your calm, soothing voice. Better yet, baby's already talking back with a variety of sweetly-pitched coos. But when baby isn't calm and cooing, she might be fussy. Ah, the mixed blessings of a 2-month-old!
Milestones this month*
Your baby can follow an object as it's passed over her face, looking in an arc about six inches from her face.
She steadily holds up her head.
Baby rolls over in one direction.
She can raise her chest using her arms for support while lying on her stomach.
Baby smiles when you smile at her.
She responds to loud sounds by becoming completely silent, crying, or acting startled.
Baby coos.
She focuses on very small objects, like raisins.
Baby may laugh out loud. She may even squeal.
*All babies have their own internal developmental timetable. If your 2-month-old hasn't yet reached these milestones, rest assured that she will in time. If you have concerns about your baby's development, discuss them with her doctor. Four ways you can help sharpen your baby's senses
Your baby may coo even more when you stimulate her senses by doing the following:
Add color Hang a brightly colored mobile over baby's bed.
Play music Introduce more upbeat, bouncy music during playtime. If baby grows anxious, end the music and soothe her in a calm voice.
Pay attention Watch your baby to see what attracts her and what frightens her. Try different tones of voice and songs.
Cuddle Don't worry about "teaching" her a thing or measuring her every millimeter of growth. All she really needs now is your loving attention.
Four reasons why your baby may be fussy
Colic Affecting 10 to 20 percent of babies, colic causes babies to have periods of intense crying -- which can occur several times per week and last for several hours. You'll know it when you hear it: Colic elicits sharp cries and screams that aren't relieved by a dry diaper or another bottle. Colic often shows up more frequently during the late afternoon and evening.
Constipation Your baby's bowel movements should be soft; if they're hard and dry and resemble little pebbles and are infrequent, your baby may be constipated. Ask your doctor if small feedings of water can help soften the stools.
Intestinal gas One good way to avoid intestinal gas in formula-fed babies is to fill the bottle with one fluid ounce of formula more than you'll feed your baby. That way, she won't end up sucking on an empty bottle and allowing air to enter her intestines. Also, keep the bottle tilted at a 45-degree angle to reduce air.
Formula intolerance Your fussy baby may be having difficulty tolerating her formula. Babies are born with immature digestive systems that continue to develop and mature during the first 4 to 6 months of life. If she exhibits any unusual behavior after feeding (such as crying or fussiness), speak with your doctor. If you do decide to switch formulas, do so gradually.
Milestones this month*
Your baby can follow an object as it's passed over her face, looking in an arc about six inches from her face.
She steadily holds up her head.
Baby rolls over in one direction.
She can raise her chest using her arms for support while lying on her stomach.
Baby smiles when you smile at her.
She responds to loud sounds by becoming completely silent, crying, or acting startled.
Baby coos.
She focuses on very small objects, like raisins.
Baby may laugh out loud. She may even squeal.
*All babies have their own internal developmental timetable. If your 2-month-old hasn't yet reached these milestones, rest assured that she will in time. If you have concerns about your baby's development, discuss them with her doctor. Four ways you can help sharpen your baby's senses
Your baby may coo even more when you stimulate her senses by doing the following:
Add color Hang a brightly colored mobile over baby's bed.
Play music Introduce more upbeat, bouncy music during playtime. If baby grows anxious, end the music and soothe her in a calm voice.
Pay attention Watch your baby to see what attracts her and what frightens her. Try different tones of voice and songs.
Cuddle Don't worry about "teaching" her a thing or measuring her every millimeter of growth. All she really needs now is your loving attention.
Four reasons why your baby may be fussy
Colic Affecting 10 to 20 percent of babies, colic causes babies to have periods of intense crying -- which can occur several times per week and last for several hours. You'll know it when you hear it: Colic elicits sharp cries and screams that aren't relieved by a dry diaper or another bottle. Colic often shows up more frequently during the late afternoon and evening.
Constipation Your baby's bowel movements should be soft; if they're hard and dry and resemble little pebbles and are infrequent, your baby may be constipated. Ask your doctor if small feedings of water can help soften the stools.
Intestinal gas One good way to avoid intestinal gas in formula-fed babies is to fill the bottle with one fluid ounce of formula more than you'll feed your baby. That way, she won't end up sucking on an empty bottle and allowing air to enter her intestines. Also, keep the bottle tilted at a 45-degree angle to reduce air.
Formula intolerance Your fussy baby may be having difficulty tolerating her formula. Babies are born with immature digestive systems that continue to develop and mature during the first 4 to 6 months of life. If she exhibits any unusual behavior after feeding (such as crying or fussiness), speak with your doctor. If you do decide to switch formulas, do so gradually.
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