Your Baby at Three Months

Congratulations—your baby is now a quarter of a year old and no longer considered a newborn! It’s amazing how quickly time flies. As you all continue to adjust to your little family, things should start to settle down a bit, and you might find that sleep is improving. Here’s what to expect at this stage and how to make the most of these precious months.

Sleep

If you feel ready, now might be a good time to start introducing a bedtime routine. A consistent routine helps your baby understand that sleep is approaching and can be a lovely way to wind down from your day. Each baby and family is different, so find what works best for you. Common elements of a bedtime routine might include a relaxing bath, changing into pyjamas, a feed, reading a bedtime story, dimming the lights, cuddles, and maybe even singing a lullaby.

A well-established bedtime routine can help signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep and can make the transition to bedtime smoother. It also provides an opportunity for bonding and helps create a sense of security for your little one.

Communication

At three months, your baby will start to interact more with you and others around them. You’re likely to see some delightful smiles and, if you’re lucky, you may even start hearing some giggles. As your baby becomes more communicative, they may also cry less frequently as they begin to use vowel sounds and cooing to express themselves.

To foster their language development, try talking through your actions as you go about your day. For example, describe what you’re doing while making lunch or completing household tasks. Playing games like peek-a-boo can also be a fun way to engage with your baby and support their social development.

Movement

By now, your baby should be able to lift their head to a 90-degree angle during tummy time. If this isn’t happening yet, try incorporating more tummy time throughout the day to strengthen their neck muscles. You might also notice that your baby is becoming more mobile, possibly starting to roll over and reach out for toys.

Encourage these new skills by providing a safe space for exploration and offering toys that are easy for them to grasp. This helps support their physical development and keeps them engaged.

Feeding

Your baby will still be on a milk-only diet, with the frequency of feeds varying depending on whether you are breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. As your baby grows, you might find that there’s a bit more time between feeds, allowing you a brief break for yourself.

If you haven’t tried expressing milk yet, this might be a good time to consider it. Expressing milk can give you some flexibility and allow your partner or a family member to feed the baby, giving you a chance to have a little time off.

You – Three Months Postpartum

As your baby grows, finding time for yourself becomes more achievable. If you’re comfortable, consider leaving the baby with a family member so you and your partner can enjoy a coffee out, have a relaxing bath, or catch up with a friend. This time for yourself is important for maintaining your well-being.

You might also be thinking about resuming sexual activity or feeling uncertain about it. It’s important to communicate openly with your partner about your thoughts and feelings so that you both understand each other’s perspectives and can decide what’s right for you as a couple.

Remember, every stage of your baby’s development brings new joys and challenges. Embrace these moments and make sure to take care of yourself along the way.

This article has been written using the latest guidance and information from trusted sources, primarily the NHS. This information should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your personal health and circumstances.