3-month-old neurological development?

With your first baby, everything is new and full of wonder — I really understand that feeling. In a 3-month-old, neurological development shows itself in ways you can observe in your daily interactions.

At this stage, your baby:

• Controls their head better: When placed face down, they can lift their head briefly and turn side to side.
• Develops visual tracking: They begin to follow a moving object or your face with their eyes. They especially show interest in high-contrast (black and white) patterns and bright colors.
• Responds to sounds: They turn toward familiar sounds, startle at sudden noise, and turn toward your calming voice.
• Shows social smiling: Now it's not just reflexive — they can give you a special smile when looking at your face.
• Explores their hands: They start to put their hands together with more awareness and deliberately bring them to their mouth. This is the first step in hand-eye coordination.

Remember, these skills develop at each baby's own pace. If by the end of the 3rd month your baby still isn't responding to sounds, making eye contact, or if you notice unusual stiffness or looseness in their arms or legs, it's good to talk to your pediatrician.

Is there another area of development you're curious about? Like sleep routines or feeding during play?