What's New For Infants

Baby massage is one of the newest and fastest growing trends, but why and how should you do it? Massaging babies started with preemies as a way to help them to gain strength and become more responsive. It has recently been discovered that for older babies and children massaging can also help with muscle development, teething problems, and colic.

If you are thinking about massaging your baby, make it enjoyable for both of you. Do it during the day at a time when it is quiet and relaxing for both of you. Trying to massage your baby when he is tired or cranky may not get the best results. Keep it happy by adding some light relaxing music in the background. Also, try adding some baby oil or lotion to the mix and massage in into your baby's skin. Just make sure you are watching your baby for cues and clues to when it is enough, or if he dislikes a particular pattern you are using.

Developmental Milestones*

Your baby might be screaming and crying when you take a toy away from him at this point. He is starting to understand what is going on around him, and he has very little options for when he disapproves of something. Objecting vocally is one of the only ways your baby has to communicate at this point.

What Might Concern You at 16 Weeks

Is it too early to start propping your baby up with pillows in the house or in the stroller while you walk around the mall? Your grandmother might say yes, but in reality it probably is not. Many babies at this point want to be propped up. They want to see what is going on in the world around them. Ultimately, your baby will decide if he is ready or not, and when enough is enough. If your baby can not sit propped up and slumps down or slides to one side, then his muscles probably are not strong enough to attempt this. For babies who can sit propped up, have no fear. They will tell you when they are tired of sitting up by slumping over or complaining. As always, keep a close, watchful eye on your infant.

This time last year...

You were 4 Weeks Pregnant!   Can you believe it? Time flies too fast! Be sure you start chronicling these infant memories now by creating your free baby journal today!

Discover Fun Facts About Your Little One's Birthday

Want to know what your baby's birth stone and flower is? How about when you'll be attending high school graduation ceremonies? Fill out this form to find out!