Dealing with your 3 months old

Is anything better than watching your baby growing and changing every day? Your 3-month-old is working on strengthening his hand muscles, and in five to six months, he should be able to pick up toys. To help him along, put a rattle in his hand and gently tug on the big end. This can also help him strengthen his muscles.

You might not realize it, but your 3-month-old is becoming aware of his surroundings. Help familiarize him in some simple ways:

• Prop him up so he can watch what goes on around him.
• Look in mirrors. Put a non-breakable metal or plastic baby mirror in the crib or playpen. Show him the mirrors around your home.
• Rock him in a rocking chair or porch swing. As you hold him, talk softly and look into his eyes.
• Have quiet times. Your baby needs some quiet time to babble, play, and explore his world, so turn off the radio, TV, or stereo.
• Give him different textures to feel, such as stuffed animals, plastic toys, or pieces of terry cloth or rubber. (Be sure that the pieces are not too small and that they cannot be torn off and swallowed.)
• Sing quietly to him before bed.

Make adorable photos with your little one, upload to the App. Write how you deal with the little one.