12 weeks new born baby

Congratulations on the arrival of your new baby!

At 12 weeks old, your baby is growing and developing rapidly. Here are some exciting milestones and fun facts about your little one:

Physical Development:

• Weight: Around 13-15 pounds (6-7 kg)
• Length: Approximately 24-26 inches (61-66 cm)
• Head circumference: About 16-17 inches (40-43 cm)
• Your baby's skin is still very sensitive, so be gentle when handling them.

Cognitive Development:

• Your baby is starting to recognize familiar faces and objects.
• They're beginning to understand cause-and-effect relationships, like shaking a toy to make a sound.
• Your baby's brain is developing rapidly, and they're learning to process new information.

Language and Communication:

• Your baby is making cooing sounds and babbling, which is a precursor to language development.
• They're starting to respond to their name and may even say "mama" or "dada" (although it might not be clear what they mean).
• Your baby is also learning to associate sounds with meanings.

Social and Emotional Development:

• Your baby is becoming more curious and playful, enjoying games like peek-a-boo and pat-a-cake.
• They're starting to develop a sense of trust and security, knowing that you're always there to comfort them.
• Your baby may exhibit separation anxiety, which is normal at this age.

Sleep and Feeding:

• Your baby is still sleeping a lot, with most babies this age sleeping 16-20 hours a day.
• They may still be waking up for nighttime feedings, but you can start to establish a consistent bedtime routine to help them learn to self-soothe.
• Breast milk or formula is still the primary source of nutrition, and your baby may be eating every 2-3 hours.

Tips and Reminders:

• Continue to prioritize skin-to-skin contact and cuddling to promote bonding and emotional development.
• Start introducing solid foods, like pureed fruits and vegetables, in small amounts (about 1-2 teaspoons) to help with digestion and nutrient intake.
• Be patient with your baby's language development, as it may take time for them to master the sounds and words.
• Don't hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician if you have any concerns or questions about your baby's development.

Remember, every baby is unique, and some may develop at a slightly different pace. If you have any concerns or questions, always consult with your pediatrician.