Physical Development

During the third month, your baby will become noticeably stronger and more coordinated. Here are some changes you might observe:

• Neck and Head Control: Your baby’s neck muscles are developing, allowing them to hold their head up more steadily. During tummy time, they may lift their head and even push up on their arms.

• Increased Movement: Those jerky, newborn reflexes are starting to give way to smoother, more intentional movements. Your baby might kick, wiggle, and wave their arms with greater control.

• Exploring Hands: Babies often discover their hands around this time. They may start bringing their hands to their mouth or attempt to grab nearby objects.

Tip: Offer safe, soft toys for your baby to grasp and explore. This helps develop their fine motor skills.

Cognitive and Emotional Growth

Your baby’s brain is growing rapidly, and you’ll notice more engagement with the world around them.

• Smiling and Social Interaction: Those first social smiles are becoming more frequent. Your baby will smile in response to your voice, expressions, and gestures, creating heartwarming moments.

• Babbling: While not quite talking yet, your baby might start cooing and babbling as they experiment with making sounds.

• Curiosity: Your baby will begin to notice and track objects with their eyes, especially bright or colorful ones.

• Tip: Talk, sing, and read to your baby often. These activities encourage language development and strengthen your bond.

Sleep Patterns

By the third month, your baby might start developing more regular sleep patterns.

• Longer Nighttime Sleep: While every baby is different, many start sleeping for longer stretches at night—up to 5–6 hours at a time.

• Daytime Naps: Expect about 3–4 naps during the day, varying in length.

Tip: Establishing a consistent bedtime routine now can help your baby feel secure and ease transitions to sleep. A warm bath, gentle massage, or lullaby can signal it’s time for bed.

Feeding

Whether breastfeeding or formula-feeding, your baby’s appetite is growing.

• More Efficient Feedings: Feeding sessions might become shorter as your baby gets better at sucking and swallowing.

• Growth Spurts: Be prepared for a growth spurt around 3 months. Your baby may want to eat more frequently for a few days.

Tip: Follow your baby’s hunger cues, such as rooting, sucking on their hands, or fussiness, to ensure they’re getting enough to eat.

Bonding and Playtime

Play is an essential part of your baby’s development and a great way to bond.

• Tummy Time: This continues to be crucial for strengthening neck and shoulder muscles.

• Interactive Play: Your baby will love games like peek-a-boo or hearing you make silly noises.

• Mirror Time: Babies enjoy looking at themselves in a mirror, even if they don’t yet recognize their reflection.

Tip: Keep play sessions short and follow your baby’s cues. If they seem overstimulated or tired, it’s time for a break.

When to Call the Pediatrician

While every baby develops at their own pace, you should consult your pediatrician if you notice:

• Difficulty lifting their head or a lack of head control.

• Minimal interest in engaging with sounds, faces, or objects.

• Unusual fussiness or inconsolable crying that doesn’t improve over time.

Take Care of Yourself, Too

Parenting a 3-month-old is rewarding but also demanding. Remember to prioritize your own well-being:

• Ask for Help: Whether from a partner, friend, or family member, don’t hesitate to seek support when you need it.

• Sleep When You Can: Rest during your baby’s naps to recharge.

• Connect with Other Parents: Join a parenting group or online community to share experiences and advice.