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All babies have their own timetable, but you can watch for certain developments in your 3-month-old. Celebrate with your baby as he reaches or nears these milestones.

Cognitive

  • Still nearsighted but better able to see objects at a distance
  • Sees detailed patterns and begins to better discern colors
  • Notices what you’re looking at and may try to follow your gaze (shared attention)
  • Recognizes you from across the room
  • May cry or fuss if bored
  • Has improved memory; better able to make a connection between repeated behaviors and the reactions they elicit

Motor

  • Holds head steady for longer periods of time
  • Better able to keep head aligned with body when in a sitting position
  • On stomach, rests on arms and hands to look around
  • Grasps a rattle; may shake or even bring it to his mouth
  • Brings hands and fingers together; looks at and plays with them
  • Attempts to bring hands to mouth
  • Begins to use mouth to explore objects
  • Reaches for a toy and tries to bat it with legs
  • Straightens legs and kicks
  • Makes smoother, more coordinated movements
  • May roll over from front to side
  • Bears weight on legs when held upright

Communication

  • Colic-related crying begins to subside
  • Turns head toward sounds
  • May try to imitate sounds
  • Prefers the sound of human voices, especially mother’s
  • Communicates needs (hunger, sleepiness) in his own consistent way
  • Squeals, growls, and may even giggle

Social

  • Distinguishes familiar people from strangers
  • Smiles socially and in response to your smile
  • Smiles to attract attention
  • Imitates some of your expressions and movements
  • Enjoys playing with others
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