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Gross Motor Skills 0 - 1 m
Dominant Reflexes
During the first month, babies mimic their movements in the womb. Hence, they are curled up in the fetal position, with the head leaning toward the side. With essentially no control over the body, babies make no voluntary movements; all movements, even feeding, are controlled by reflexes, and are random and spasmodic. Babies' bones are soft and their muscles are weak, which is why babies need you to support their head.
Head and Shoulders
As the first month progresses, babies begin to raise the head while prone, and then even move it from side to side – practice that strengthens the neck and shoulder girdle. Trying to move the head from side to side against the forces of gravity is a difficult feat. Still, babies instinctively know that the results are worth the effort, and so are driven to try again and again; within just a few months, these muscles will be strong enough to hold the head steady. When babies spasmodically move their limbs when lying on their back, they strengthen the limbs – a precursor to exerting voluntary control.
- Lay our baby on his stomach for short periods so that he becomes used to this position
- Lay your baby in a prone position on a soft blanket, at least two or three times a day, to help him strengthen his neck muscles.
Tummy Time: Head Lifting
