Developing a Routine

Try to do some things at the same time each day so that your baby can come to expect what is going to happen. Activities that could be done at nearly the same time each day are: bathing, dressing, playing, going on outings, and going to sleep.

Your baby will let you know when he is sleepy or when he wants to eat. After a while, you will recognize a pattern in his eating and sleeping.

When you have tasks that need doing, such as preparing a meal, find something fun for your baby to do. This might include enjoying some time in the infant swing or playing with the crib gym. Just remember to keep your baby in a safe place where you can see what he is doing.

Try to save such activities for the times when you are busy. If your baby does them too often, he will get bored with them.

Babies do get bored. At 3 months, infants need more activity. When babies are bored they may get fussy, think they are hungry, or want to go to sleep (and keep a schedule that may be difficult for parents).

To keep your baby from getting bored, show him the pictures in children's books or play the learning games in this newsletter.

Keeping Your Relationship Strong

It’s time for a parenting break! New moms and dads need to make time for each other and to be with other people. After some time away from your baby, you can return refreshed to face the challenges of parenting.

Well-adjusted babies tend to have dads and moms who show that they enjoy and love each other. Are there ways you can make your partner feel special each day?

Try to show your love for your partner and your baby on a daily basis. Hugs and kisses are great ways to show you care, as is helping with household and child care chores.

Each day, tell your children and partner why you love them.

Preparing a Sitter

Ask someone you trust to care for your baby. The first time you have a sitter, ask the person to come 30 minutes before you leave so you can show the sitter around your house and tell her about your baby's routine.

Write down the following information about your baby and put it in a folder for the sitter:

• What usually happens at the time of day the sitter is present?
• What are your baby's favorite toys and activities?
• How does your baby tell you that she is hungry, sleepy, and wet?
• What do you do to calm your baby?
• How do you feed, burp, diaper, and place your baby in the crib? (You always place your baby in the crib on her back with no pillows or toys.)
• Where are all the things that the sitter will need for a diaper change, for warming a bottle, and for changing clothes?

Show the sitter around the house and where the following items are located:

• Telephones
• Flashlight
• Smoke detectors and fire escapes
• Emergency phone numbers
• Outside doors
• First aid kit

Provide the sitter these phone numbers:

• Where you can be reached
• Your baby's doctor
• Neighbors or nearby family members
• 911 or emergency response system (fire and police)
• Poison Control Center (800-222-1222); locate your nearest Poison Control Center at http://www.aapcc.org/findyour.htm
• Your house address
• Address of nearest emergency room
• A signed consent form authorizing medical care within certain limits if you cannot be reached.