BabyCenter talks alot about physical development this week, as baby movements are getting a bit more coordinated. The jerky arm and leg movements of newborn days are becoming smoother, more circular motions (especially when they're watching people). 11-week-old babies need space to stretch and move their arms and legs and should be allowed opporunity to move as they please. These movements can help baby strengthen and tone developing muscles.
Reflexes that were present at birth are now voluntary actions. The big example is sucking. Babies suck to soothe themselves, to learn about the objects they place in their mouths and for pure pleasure. In the past 2 weeks Brooke cannot get enough of her hands. First it was the left only, now she seems to have realized that she has two hands! Between staring, licking and sucking ... those hands have become full-time companions to Brooke.
Parents.com talks about social development. Babies at this age have less of a need for nighttime feedings due toncreased stomach capacity. However, this doesn't mean they stop waking up. As social development continues babies now discover a new reason to cry in the night--it brings a sleepy but loving parent to their side.
Brooke is getting a bit better at entertaining herself. Lots of that involves her hands, which she just stares at and snacks on. But she is also sitting for longer durations in the bouncy seat. I put her in it each day and pull her out before she has a huge fit, just to get her used to it. Today she sat in it for a good 10 minutes - enough for me to make my coffee and pull a few things together. She genuinely seemed to like it today and has realized that the dangling toys are within her reach. Now if only I could convince her to nap by herself versus on my lap ...
