During the first year of life, babies tend to develop speedily. They undergo developmental milestones, things that most of them learn how to do at a certain age in terms of behaving, speaking, moving, and playing. However, no babies are exactly the same as they develop at their own pace which may vary from age to age. Although most of them reach certain developmental milestones at a particular period of time, it is not unusual for some to fall behind a little.
Basic Types of Developmental Milestones
- Physical Development
During the first three months of a newborn baby, you will note that changes can happen more quickly than expected. However, their size can depend largely on the build and environment of their parents, how long their mother carried them to term, and their nutrition. In fact, according to studies, babies can lose as much as 10% of their birth weight during their first week. The original weight may nevertheless return during their second week, which, from there, can likely grow for about an ounce a day.
- Social Development
Babies are naturally social. From their first months, they begin to connect with people, imitating their facial expressions, cooing, smiling, and responding to rhythms in communication. Until their first year, babies will often learn from immersing in a dyad of communication, which researcher Erik Erikson referred to as the stage of Basic Trust vs. Mistrust.
According to Erikson’s theory, psychosocial development can happen from birth until a child is around 18 months old. This stage can shape their personality, along with their overall view of the world as they build early patterns of trust that are crucial for their social and emotional development.
- Cognitive Development
Cognitive development refers to the process by which babies learn the process of language, memory, thinking, and reasoning. According to Piaget’s theory of the sensorimotor stage of cognitive development, they even utilize their basic senses and motor movements to learn about themselves and the world around them. These basic senses include sight, smell, taste, hearing, and touch, which are then combined with their physical capabilities that constantly develop as they grow, such as grasping and touching.
As they interact through these, their cognition grows, allowing them to communicate more with their environment and the people around them. This stage can last until they are about two years of age.
Parental Tip
Constant communication can help your newborn baby grow and develop. Use gentle touch, hugs, and kisses to stimulate and comfort him/her while giving a loving attention. According to experts, this can enhance many areas of development, allowing infants to reach their developmental milestones more easily.
Although it is normal for parents to face difficulties during this stage of development, it is far more beneficial to consult experts in babycare in Dubai to ensure that you help your baby develop while allowing yourself to seek affirmation as you trust your parental intuition.
Reach out to Alleanza for Dubai homecare and babycare.
