Being a new parent. It’s so difficult to know what’s going on. How long should they sleep for, and how long should they be awake? What sort of food should you feed them? Are they developing normally? It’s all so nerve-wracking. You want to do your best, but it’s hard to know what that is. It would be great if the little dudes just came with instruction manuals. You know that’s never going to happen, but here’s the next best thing: a bunch of infographics that cover the essentials. With these in hand you won’t be one of the new parents left worrying, you’ll have all the information you need!
1. Early Cues
You know your little one is nearly ready for a feed, but sometimes you need to push them a little; like when you’re out grabbing some much-needed groceries, having a medical check-up, or getting a short sanity break with other new parents. Here’s how to know when your baby is hungry, really hungry, or getting agitated (and needs calming before feeding.) Below: Chart from the official website of the Government of Western Australia’s Department of Health.
2. Sleep / Wake Cycles
How much sleep does your baby need? How long should they sleep for, and how long should they be awake? Knowing this stuff is critical because it helps you plan your day in a way that works for both of you. You can work out how much you can achieve (or how much sleep you can catch up on) while your baby is asleep. You can plan outings for the time that they’re awake- and you can work out if they’re about to reduce the number of naps they take each day. Below: Chart from She Knows.
3. Healthy Eating
Solids. That’s a minefield isn’t it? Everyone has different opinions on when to introduce solids and what to feed babies of specific ages. You can spend ages yourself researching all the different foods appropriate for each age group, or just use this indispensable infographic. Below: Image from New Born Baby Zone.
4. Motor Skills
You know your baby is an amazing, talented, wonder child. But how can you be sure? What exactly should they be able to do at this age? Worry not, we’ve got you covered in this department as well. This infographic shows what your child should be capable of doing at what age, when to be concerned and how to promote gross motor skills at home. (It covers kids from birth to six years). Below: Infographic from North Shore Pediatric Therapy.
5. Language Milestones
Maybe you think you don’t need to be worried about language. Most kids start talking when they’re about a year old, right? Well, yes. But babies actually start communicating and preparing to talk almost as soon as they’re born. Infants prepare to talk by imitating sounds and learning about communication. So how do you know if your child is on track to call out “Mamma”? Just refer to this handy chart that tells you milestones for each age, when to worry, and where to look for help. Below: Chart from North Shore Pediatric Therapy.
Featured photo credit: Baby Sleep Guidelines / SheKnows Australia via sheknows.com
