If you check “No” to any of the following questions, contact your Public Health Nurse at 250-850-2110. It’s never too soon to make sure your child is on track.
| NO | ||
| Stop crying when comforted by you? | ||
| Enjoy being touched and cuddled? | ||
| Have different cries? (For example, tired, hungry) | ||
| Suck well on the nipple/bottle? | ||
| Feed every 2-4 hours during the day? | ||
| Move arms and legs? | ||
| Spend longer times with eyes open? | ||
| Watch a face moving from side to side? | ||
| Smile and coo in response to you? | ||
| Look into your eyes when awake and being held? | ||
| Startle to loud noises? | ||
| Lift head up when lying face down on tummy? * | ||
| Hold hands open? | ||
| Hold a toy or rattle briefly if it is placed in his/her hand? | ||
| Recognize familiar faces and voices? | ||
* Starred items may not be common to children in all cultures. Please click here for a discussion of what this star might mean for Aboriginal children.
Activities to Encourage Development:
- Respond to your baby’s cries. You cannot spoil your baby; she may be hungry or uncomfortable or need comfort and soothing.
- Provide playtime in a variety of positions: on back, on tummy (when awake) and on side. Some time on tummy each day will encourage strength in neck, arms and shoulders which is necessary for future development.
- Hold your child close and talk to her. Repeat sounds that she makes.
- Gently rub and touch her. Massage arms, back, legs, tummy and face.
- Present objects or even your own face within 6-8 inches of your baby’s face.