Congratulations! You made it through the first few weeks, and the time has come for the 6 week visit. Although it might be an overstatement to say that things are running “like clockwork”, you are probably getting into a groove and feeling a little more comfortable. Do not be concerned if life still feels hectic. A new baby is a big change for even the most prepared of parents, and the sleep deprivation that you are experiencing may make it more difficult to cope. Regardless, pat yourself on the back! Reaching this point is a major accomplishment!
Although you may not have had a lot of time to think about your own needs these past few weeks, it is important to take a moment to check in with yourself. How are your spirits? Does mom have any signs of the baby blues? Does Dad feel included even though many of baby’s needs may only be satisfied by mom (i.e. in the case of breastfeeding)? Have family members been helpful, or do you need a break and some time to yourself? These are only a few questions to make yourself stop and think about your own needs, as they are just as important as your baby’s.
Your baby has done a lot of growing since birth. At each visit, we will follow your child’s growth via his specific growth chart. We will also check on your child’s development, by asking you certain questions about what she is doing. If you have concerns or questions, please bring them up.
What should you expect of your child now that he is nearing 2 months old? Most babies this age start to coo and vocalize with baby sounds. You should even see your baby smile! Your baby should be attentive to sounds and certain things she sees. Babies should show some pleasure when interacting with their parents. When your baby is lying tummy-side-down, she should be attempting to lift her head and neck more.
Another important change that is beginning in your child is that his circadian rhythm (or natural night and day cycle) is starting to develop. Up until this point, you have been showing your baby whether it is night or day by giving certain cues (i.e. light noise vs quiet and dark). Now that baby is starting to develop her own sense of night and day, she will start to go bed earlier in the evening and sleep a longer stretch up front. Please ask your pediatrician about to help your baby with this transition.
A few safety tips to still consider…….
- Is baby on his back to sleep?
- Is baby in a backwards facing car seat in the back seat of the car?
- Do you have a rectal thermometer with which you can check your baby’s temperature? (if 100.4 degrees or higher, your baby should see a doctor immediately)
- Is your baby always attended to on a changing table, couch, bath, or bed?
We will see you and your baby at 8 weeks of age for the next well child visit. We look forward to it!