Abbott A Abbott Mama Singapore Abbott: A Promise for Life
Not a resident of Singapore? Click here.

Childhood Development

Milestones Ahead

From the first moments after the birth of your child, you know your life will never be the same. Your child will change from week to week-even from day to day-as he begins to notice the world around him, and to interact with it. Get a head start, and know what to expect as your baby matures.

"I really celebrated when my baby could stay awake to play."- Mother of 3

Laugh Out Loud

It's month four, and your baby may be getting to be a real comedian

By the end of the month, he may even be laughing and giggling. This month, learn about:

Making sense of the babble – helping baby develop language skills

Your baby is making sounds for a reason, even if you don't know what that reason is. One way to help him develop language skills is to imitate his noises, as if the two of you are having an intelligent conversation that only you can understand.

  • Talking to your baby often as you dress, feed, or bathe him
  • Providing quiet time (turning off the radio and TV)
  • Encouraging your baby to turn his head toward sounds
  • Repeating sounds often and trying to get your baby to mimic them back to you

Keeping baby healthy – the importance of vaccinations.

Well-baby visits to the pediatrician are probably part of your monthly routine by now. Doctor visits are an opportunity for you to make sure your baby is growing and developing properly, and to ask any questions you may have. It is also the time when your baby will get the immunizations he needs (and make up any that he may have missed).

Regular vaccinations are still the only way to protect your baby - now and for years to come - so be sure to get your child immunized to help keep him healthy.


Rest for success

You've probably been told many times that babies should sleep on their backs. But now that your baby is rolling over, you can't control his sleeping position.

It's probably OK to let him sleep in whatever position he finds most comfortable. Once a baby can roll over on his own, generally between 4 and 7 months of age, the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) is usually reduced.

Keep thick blankets, comforters, pillows, and large, soft, stuffed toys out of your baby's crib.