Your Baby Week 16
A typical trip to the doctor will include weighing and measuring to help chart your baby’s growth. Most babies have growth spurts at different times, and just as parents come in different sizes, so do infants! Remember, the rate at which your baby is growing is more important than the size of your baby. Children are considered as failing to thrive when their rate of growth does not meet the expected growth rate for a child their age.
It has probably been almost two months since your last pediatrician’s appointment, so you may want to bring a list of questions with you to make the most efficient use of your allotted time. Pediatricians tend to be very busy, so bringing a list of questions is a great way to make sure you don’t forget to ask something important. Then, you can leave the office knowing all of your concerns were addressed.
During this visit, your child’s pediatrician may suggest that you start your baby on some solids and cereal. Also, your baby will most likely be receiving another round of immunizations this visit.
I object!
As you may have noticed, your little one is becoming more and more vocal each week. In fact, you may be very familiar with your baby expressing their objections vocally and loudly! This may take the form of screaming or crying when something happens that he or she does not like, for instance, if you were to take their favorite toy away. If your child has begun to do this, don’t worry, you don’t have a “bad” baby. Right now, crying is one of the only ways that your baby can express discontentment to you and it is a healthy and natural thing to do.
Car seats
One thing your baby may be very vocal about is disliking his car seat. If this is the case try these tips...
- Are they in the shade? It may not be the car seat so much as the constant squinting that is bothering your baby. Try purchasing inexpensive secure shade to place in the window. This will shield their eyes from any sunlight, making them more comfortable.
- Music! Does your baby have a favorite CD already? Familiar sounds may just be the answer. If not, create a soothing environment to help them relax and bring some tranquil music for your car trips. Be careful that this doesn’t lull you to sleep as well!
- Maybe they just need some company. It can get pretty lonely in the car seat, especially because they can’t see much from that position. Having some company may provide a great distraction and help to remind them that they are not alone.
