Infants
Babies from 1 month to 12 months of age are called infants. This is a crucial period in both the growth and development of the baby. These babies are ideally exclusively breastfed till 6 months. After 6 months, complementary food is gradually introduced. The aim is to have the baby eating family meals by 1 year of age. Here are a few FAQs about infants.
1) My 2-month-old baby keeps sucking on her fingers all the time. Is the feeding not enough for her?
This is a normal developmental phase when the baby puts her hands in her mouth. Gradually, she will put toys and even her toes in her mouth. This does not mean the baby is constantly hungry.
2) My baby was putting on good weight till 3 months of age. Then it reduced, and now it is very low. I am worried.
Babies grow rapidly for the first 3 months. Then the growth rate slows down every 3 months. It is important to track the infant’s growth on appropriate growth charts. Regular check-ups with your pediatrician should ease your anxiety.
3) When is the ideal time to introduce food for the infant?
WHO guidelines suggest exclusive breastfeeding till 6 months of age. After 6 months, gradually introduce simple, nutrient-dense, easy-to-digest foods. Discuss complementary feeding options with your pediatrician.
4) Can I divert my baby with screens (YouTube videos and songs) so that he eats his food?
It is best to avoid screen time for infants. Diversion is not needed for the baby to eat. The more involved the baby is with their food, the better their eating habits will develop.
5) Can I let my infant self-feed?
Infants develop the pincer grasp (thumb and forefinger) by 9-10 months and can pick up small, soft foods. Encourage self-feeding under supervision, but be prepared to assist with most of the meal.
6) What toys can I give my infant?
Infants enjoy bright, colorful toys that are smooth and easy to clean, like blocks, rings, and links. Smaller infants also enjoy overhead mobiles. Avoid battery-operated toys with flashing lights.
7) Should I get a walker for my 9-month-old?
Walkers are not recommended. They give mobility before the baby is developmentally ready, increasing accident risks. Walkers can also hinder crawling, cruising, and walking development.
8) My baby is teething and is very cranky. What can I do to relieve teething troubles?
Irritation of gums can start as early as the third month. When the baby is cranky, gently massage the gums with a clean finger or use a soft finger brush. A soft silicone teether, chilled briefly in the fridge, can also soothe the gums.
9) When should I give solids to the baby?
The baby’s first foods should be smooth and liquid. Gradually thicken to a purée consistency, and coarsen the texture over time. Use a blender until around 9 months, then offer hand-mashed foods. By 1 year, the baby should be eating family meals.
10) My infant wakes up 4-5 times at night to breastfeed. Is it normal?
Frequent night feedings may indicate hunger. If the baby has an early dinner, offer a calorie-dense bedtime snack about 2-2.5 hours later to reduce the likelihood of nighttime hunger. Discuss snack options with your pediatrician.
11) My infant screams a lot playfully. Is it normal?
Most babies start cooing by the third month and babbling by 7-9 months. They experiment with their voices, so playful screaming is normal and part of their development.