Birth to 4 Months - You and Your Baby

 

Pregnancy and Beyond

Each baby is an individual with a unique personality, temperament, and group of talents. Every baby needs affection and encouragement from his family. Your baby is no exception!

The following helpful ideas about babies come from parents like you. These ideas can make your life, and your baby's, easier and happier, now and in the future.

  • Start a baby book! Records of well-child care visits, immunizations, and development can all be kept in a health record or a baby book.
  • Setting aside time to rest is important. Set aside some private time for yourself and don't feel guilty about it. Ask friends and family to help with meals, laundry and housework while you and your baby rest.
  • "Baby Blues" - feeling discouraged, tired, overwhelmed - can happen after any big change (happy or sad) in life. If time, extra rest, and patience don't seem to help, ask your health care provider for guidance. Counseling with a professional, or just talking it out with a trusted friend, can help you understand your feelings and gain self-confidence. Don't be afraid to "reach out" and ask for help from family, friends or professionals. You may call the Parental Stress Helpline at 1-800-367-2543 is you need to talk with someone immediately.
  • It may be hard to find time for everyone. If you have other children, they also need your love, care, and attention. Try to give them some special time with you. Let them know that their feelings and needs are important to you.

Your baby depends on you as a source of joy and understanding in his world. For information on child development and parenting, you may contact Parents as Teachers (PAT) by calling your local school district or visit the PAT website. You may also call ParentLink at 1-800-552-8522.

Remember that your baby is, above all, a baby - yours to love and enjoy. He depends on you as a source of joy and understanding in his world.