- May sleep about six hours at night before waking (total sleep typically 14 to 17 hours)
- Rolls over (usually stomach to back is first)
- Sits with support
- Lifts head up 90 degrees
- Can follow a moving object for a 180-degree arc
- Babbles and amuses self with new noises
- Responds to all colors and shades
- Explores objects with his mouth
- Recognizes a bottle or breast
- Communicates pain, fear, loneliness and discomfort through crying
- Responds to a rattle or bell
Your Baby's 14th Week
Your little one will enjoy experimenting with his voice. He's probably developing quite the "vocabulary" lately. He'll say vowel sounds like "ooh" and "aah" and has learned that he can change the sound at will by simply changing he shape of his mouth. In addition to these vowel sounds he'll continue gurgling and making throaty sounds. He may also enjoy blowing bubbles.
Watch his legs continue to strengthen as he stands with your support, bearing his own weight. Depending on his strength he may even be able to sit (propped up) very soon though most babies are in their sixth month before they're able to sit without assistance.
His mind is hard at work as well. He's starting to develop mental images of the things that will happen when he "asks" for assistance. He's able to envision certain cause and effect relationships. (Chewing on his fist = nursing.)
Your Baby's 15th Week
Big personalities come in small packages! Watch as your little one reaches out for her favorite toys and turn from those she doesn't like as well! Don't expect her to make contact the first few times she grabs at an item. She's still developing her hand-eye coordination. Watch out! She may also protest when it's time to put her precious items away for a little while.
Despite her amazing "big girl" likes and dislikes she's still a little baby at heart. Take care to keep her head supported when needed. You may notice his neck muscles still wobble a bit especially if you try to pull her into a sitting position when she's been lying on her back.
In addition to favorite toys, she'll continue to occupy herself with her hands. And, she'll surely enjoy cuddling and snuggling as she nurses or winds down for the evening's rest.
Your Baby's 16th Week
You may not be able to see the wheels turning inside that adorable little head, but you'll surely notice the results. He's learning that every object has a label. Though it'll be some time before you'll hear true words, he'll being to understand that the furry animal he loves to watch is called a dog (or a cat) and that every other object has a specific name.
Keep a close eye on him now as he's probably able to roll over (usually from tummy to side first). Be careful to keep him properly restrained and within arms reach whenever he's lifted off the ground.
By now you've probably discovered most of his cues. You know when he's hungry, wet or tired. He's learned how to make different cries and sounds to signal a variety of needs. It will become increasingly easy to tailor your responses appropriately. Continue exclusive nursing and let him set the schedule (or lack thereof).
Your Baby's 17th Week
Look out! Your little one is now able to accurately track objects with his eyes and grasp them with both hands. His eyes are maturing and he'll begin to have improved depth perception and generally clearer vision. He'll delight in pulling dangling objects. Favorite items are sure to include your hair, jewelry and clothing.
Keep your ears tuned in as he learns to laugh. Great big belly laughs are wonderful to hear. Elicit a few by tickling him and watching him squirm and giggle.
You'll notice him turn toward a voice when someone speaks to him. It will be increasingly easy for him to do this as he props himself up on his arms when he's placed on his tummy. He may even be able to rest on his elbows. Be sure to supervise him closely when he's on his tummy and remove pillows and soft bedding from his reach.
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