- Your little 3 month old will have formed a strong attachment to you, responding with heartwarming smiles.
- They're gaining better control of their head movements, showing progress in holding their head up while sitting.
- During tummy time, you might observe delightful moments like rolling from front to back, lifting their head, or pushing up their chest with their hands.
- Around the 3 month mark, your baby's posterior fontanelle, the soft spot at the back of their head, should have naturally closed.
- Some babies will sleep for a 5 to 6 hour stretch at night but don’t worry if your baby is not there yet.
Your Baby's 3 Month Developmental Milestones
Key points
Three whole months have passed since giving birth and you and your baby have changed so much during this time. These changes may be subtle, or they may be as obvious as having to go up another nappy size after a bad explosive incident!
Take the time to pause and reflect on the last three months. Make sure to congratulate yourself on all that you have done, and learned, during this period.
Our comprehensive guide covers the developmental milestones your baby may encounter as they reach 3 months. You’ll know what to expect and how to prepare for the big changes on your little one’s horizon.
Your baby will probably be bursting out of their newborn clothes and into the next size by the time they hit 3 months of age. This is helped by their increased appetite and maturing breastfeeding skills.
A feeding pattern may be starting to emerge at this age but don’t panic if you're not into a routine, this will come with time. Some babies may be already settling into their own feeding routine so watch for any patterns that may predict when your baby will be hungry.
Unrestricted feeding, both day and night, is still encouraged at this age. Babies know how much food and nutrients they need, so let their hunger cues guide your feeding schedule.
You can be sure that they are eating enough if you are frequently changing wet nappies, you notice your baby's weight has increased, or they have periods of contentment.
By now, most babies are significantly heavier than their birth weight, and you may have started to feel it!
At three months of age, their life has begun to develop more structure as they stay awake for longer stretches and begin to interact with the world around them.
It is important, however, not to immediately jump into a strict schedule. This can create a lot of pressure for you and those around you to 'succeed' in following a schedule. This is near impossible as a baby's growth is not linear, and one day of good sleep may be followed by another day of restlessness. Babies are unpredictable, so go with the flow and follow their sleeping cues as they arise.
Their sleep pattern may now include deeper periods of sleep, leaving them to peacefully dream for around 5 to 6 hours a night.
Even if your little one is not exactly sleeping according to a schedule, it is perfectly normal. Every baby is different, and all babies develop their own sleeping preferences as time goes on. It's important to respond to their individual needs.
Settling your 3 month old baby
Even when your baby begins to sleep for longer periods, you will likely need to step in to help them settle. Whether it is for a nap, before bed, or in the middle of the night, you can try some of the following:
● Remove any distractions. Make sure their needs are met such as changing their dirty nappy or feeding them if they are hungry.
● Try to relax them with a baby massage or a warm bath. Doing this every night before putting them to bed will help let your baby know it's time to sleep.
● Soothe them with repetitive motions. Try rocking or gentle patting, with an accompanying song. Babies enjoy the sound of your voice as by this age they can recognise you as their parent.
● Try a change of scenery. Going on a walk, not suggested at night, or a drive in the car can help send your baby off to sleep.
Soothe your baby if they are making sounds or crying insistently when they should be sleeping. They will enjoy your presence and will usually feel safe enough to eventually drop off to sleep.
If your baby continues to cry without seemingly any cause, this could be a sign of colic. If you believe your baby is experiencing colic, reach out to your GP or child health or Well Child nurse for professional advice.
Your child's development is something that any parent is incredibly interested in tracking. All of the new head movements, facial expressions, and sounds are precious milestones to celebrate. You can look forward to a range of new developments during the 3 month old stage, including physical, cognitive, and social progressions.
Physical
Once a baby reaches the 3 month mark, they have started to physically progress beyond their reflexive newborn movements. Now, they are beginning to show signs of having voluntary control over their actions and the strength to back it up.
You may notice during this stage that your baby has begun to develop these physical skills:
● Increase in the baby's neck strength, allowing them to hold their head up.
● During tummy time, they can begin to support their upper body. With sufficient upper body strength, they can begin lifting their chest alongside their head.
● Your baby's hands have more control and may start to grasp toys intentionally. They can now open and shut their hands voluntarily.
● Your baby will instinctively swipe at hanging toys, showing interest in playtime.
● Their hand-eye coordination allows them to place their hands to their mouth consistently.
● Legs stretch out and kick when placed on their back or stomach.
● When feet are placed on a firm surface, your baby may start to press down on their legs.
Cognitive
When it comes to cognitive development, the 3 month stage is where things start to get really exciting! Most babies will start to recognise the world around them, including the people in it; aka, you!
You can enjoy a range of new developments at this age, they may:
● Start laughing and showing signs of joy.
● Begin to follow moving objects.
● Turn their head towards the direction of sound.
● Offer the beginnings of eye contact as they recognise people and objects more reliably, and even at a greater distance.
● Use their hand-eye coordination to more accurately show interest or a preference for people or objects.
● Begin to mimic sounds and babble.
● Your baby may smile at the sound of your voice.
Social
Along with your baby beginning to recognise the world around them, they have enough dexterity at 3 months of age to begin showing preference. You can now begin to determine at this age what your baby loves and what they don't like, based on their social reactions.
You can enjoy new social developments such as:
● Your baby beginning to develop a social smile, indicating to others that they are enjoying themselves.
● They may imitate facial expressions or even some movements.
● Your baby beginning to recognise the concept of playtime and crying when it ends. At this age, they can also enjoy playing with others, such as trying to hold objects offered or make vowel sounds in response to words.
● By 3 months of age, your baby will begin to communicate with others through their face and body. You can enjoy brand-new expressions and responses to your actions.
Milestones to monitor
It's important to recognise that each baby follows their own unique developmental path, and there's a broad range of what's considered normal. However, in some cases, it's important to be mindful of potential delays in your baby's milestones.
At three months old, most babies typically start displaying the skills outlined in this article. If you observe that your little one's progress seems significantly behind, it may be beneficial to have a compassionate conversation with your paediatrician.
Here are some common signs that could indicate a potential delay in your baby's development:
● Limited reaction to sounds or movement.
● Absence of smiling, including social smiles.
● Challenges with proper feeding.
● Uneven strength in their body, with one side appearing stronger than the other.
● Limited control over their hands, which may remain closed, stiff, or limp, with no sign of grasping objects.
● Difficulty in settling down or finding comfort, even when picked up and reassured.
If you notice any of these signs, consider discussing your concerns with your GP or child health or Well Child nurse, who can provide guidance and support tailored to your baby's unique needs. Remember, early intervention and open communication can make a positive difference in your child's development.
Welcoming a three month old into your life is an exciting journey filled with discovery and joy. While they might not be rolling over or sitting up just yet, engaging play and interaction are crucial for their development. Here are some light and playful activities to enhance the bond with your little one.
Activities to enjoy include:
● Mirror magic. Introduce your baby to their own reflection in a baby-safe mirror. It not only captures their attention but also aids in visual development.
● High-contrast toys. Opt for simple objects with clear shapes and toys with bold patterns and high-contrast colours to stimulate their developing eyesight.
● Soft toy sensory play. Explore different textures with soft, plush toys. Let your baby feel the various surfaces, fostering sensory development and tactile exploration.
● Gentle tummy time. Short sessions of tummy time daily help strengthen neck and upper body muscles, preparing them for future milestones.
● Sing-alongs. Gentle tunes and nursery rhymes lay the foundations for language development and your voice soothes and comforts your baby.
● Face play. Make funny faces and exaggerated expressions make a simple yet delightful interaction that brings connection and joy.
Remember, these activities are not just about play; they contribute to your baby's growth and create beautiful bonding moments between the two of you.
Parenting a 3 month old baby and juggling all your responsibilities can be a real challenge. Often we consider self-care a luxury, however, taking time for yourself is vital.
Self-care tips for parents
From the moment you become a parent, your world naturally revolves around nurturing your precious little one. However, it is essential to carve out even a small moment for self-care. Especially during these hectic times when it feels like there's barely a second to spare for yourself.
A few kind thoughts and some practical help may allow you to truly enjoy this time with your baby.
Ideas that may help you create balance:
· Put your mental wellbeing first.
· Prioritise tasks with self-care at the top of the list.
· Let go of the notion of perfection.
· Seek help, it’s always OK to ask for support.
· Share your feelings with those you trust.
· Take breaks to meditate, rest, listen to music.
Remember, doing your best is always enough.
This period can be overwhelming. If you and/or your partner are struggling and need someone to talk to, there are support services available.
· Your registered midwife
· Child health nurse or Well Child nurse
· General practitioner (GP)
· PANDA helpline: 1300 726 306 (AUS)
· Lifeline: 0800 543 354 (NZ)
Safety
Ensuring the safety of your 3 month old baby is paramount. This topline guide is designed to provide you with information on how to keep your baby safe.
Sleep environment:
○ Place your baby on their back to sleep.
○ Use a firm and flat mattress in the crib.
○ Avoid soft bedding, toys, or loose blankets in the crib.
Temperature regulation:
○ Dress your baby in layers to maintain a comfortable temperature.
○ Keep the room at a moderate temperature, not too hot or too cold.
Feeding practices:
○ Follow safe breastfeeding techniques.
○ If using formula, follow preparation instruction.
○ Improper use can affect baby’s health.
Immunisations:
○ Stay current with recommended vaccinations to protect your baby from preventable illnesses.
Supervision and handling:
○ Always support your baby's head and neck during handling.
○ Never leave your baby unattended on elevated surfaces.
Hygiene practices:
○ Wash your hands before handling the baby.
○ Keep the baby's environment clean and germ-free.
Cord care:
○ Keep the umbilical cord clean and dry.
○ Follow any specific care instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
Recognising signs of illness:
○ Be attentive to changes in your baby's behavior or health.
○ Consult your healthcare provider promptly if you have any concerns.
Car safety:
○ Use a properly installed car seat for every car ride.
○ Ensure the seat is appropriate for your baby's age and size.
Regular check-ups:
○ Attend scheduled well-baby check-ups with your healthcare provider.
○ Remember, providing a safe and nurturing environment for your baby is a joyous responsibility.
If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to consult with your GP, child health nurse or Well Child nurse for personalised advice.
Vaccinations
In Australia, the National Immunisation Program Schedule provides the childhood immunisations recommended for all children, free of charge. It is common for babies in Australia to receive their second dose of the following vaccinations at 4 months. So, book in your appointment now for:
Diphtheria tetanus whooping cough polio hepatitis B hib vaccine
1 injection, second dose at 4 months and third dose at 6 months.
Liquid drops, second dose at 4 months.
1 injection, second dose at 4 months and third dose at 12 months.
1 injection, second dose at 4 months and third dose at 12 months.
Speak to your child health nurse, doctor or healthcare professional with any questions you may have about immunisations.
In Aotearoa New Zealand, the National Immunisation Schedule sets out the free vaccines offered to babies, Tamariki, teenagers and adults. It is common for babies in New Zealand to receive the second dose of these vaccinations at 3 months.
Diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, hepatitis B, and hib vaccine
1 injection at 3 months and third dose at 5 months.
Liquid drops, last dose at 3 months.
1 injection at 5 months and third dose at 12 months.
Speak to your Well Child Tamariki Ora nurse or your doctor with any questions you may have about immunisations.
Baby health check
In Australia, your GP or child health nurse will see your baby at regular times so they can check your little one’s health, growth and development to make sure your baby is getting the right support to meet their developmental milestones.
In New Zealand, by the 3 month stage, your midwife will have discharged you into the care of your GP and your baby is seen by a Well Child provider. Your Well Child or Plunket nurse will also check your baby’s health, growth and development.
We’re here to help
Our team of nutritionists, dietitians and midwives at Careline are healthcare professionals with big hearts. Specialising in infant and child health, they offer parents and carers, free nutrition, feeding and product advice and lots of moral support. Contact our Careline Experts by phone, LiveChat or email.
Always consult your doctor, midwife or healthcare professional for advice about feeding your baby.
Every feeding journey is unique
Not every parent can breastfeed. Not every parent can produce breast milk. No matter what choice you make, we will support your unique feeding journey.
We at Nutricia believe in providing the best nutrition for babies, which is why we recognise breast milk as uniquely superior for babies, it provides many benefits. It is important that mums have a healthy diet to support breastfeeding. A decision not to breastfeed, or partial bottle feed, may reduce breast milk supply making it difficult to reverse. The cost and social implications of using feeding methods should be considered. Always seek professional for advice about feeding your baby. Ensure formula is used as directed as improper use can affect baby’s health.
Please note: These articles are meant to give you a general sense of the growth and development of your newborn baby. However, it’s important to remember that every baby grows and develops at their own pace.
Healthy Children Organisation. Developmental Milestones at 3 months [Internet]. [Cited 2023 Dec 15]. Available from: www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/Pages/Developmental-Milestones-3-Months.aspx
Raising Children. Baby’s growth and development at 3-4 months old [Internet]. [Cited 2023 Dec 15]. Available from: raisingchildren.net.au/babies/development/development-tracker-3-12-months/3-4-months
Pregnancy, Birth and Baby. Your baby's growth and development at 3 months old [Internet]. [Cited 2023 Dec 15]. Available from: www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/babys-growth-and-development-3-months-old
Pregnancy, Birth and Baby. Sleep patterns for babies [Internet]. [Cited 2023 Dec 15]. Available from: www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/sleep-patterns-for-babies
Tresillian. Baby self settling techniques [Internet]. [Cited 2023 Dec 15]. Available from: www.tresillian.org.au/advice-tips/settling/3-6-months/
UNICEF. How to reduce stress – parents [Internet]. [Cited 2023 Dec 15]. Available from: www.unicef.org/parenting/mental-health/how-reduce-stress-parents
Queensland Government. Keeping your baby safe [Internet]. [Cited 2023 Dec 15]. Available from: www.qld.gov.au/health/condition/child-health/babies-and-toddlers/keeping-your-baby-safe
Positive Psychology. How to Practice Self-Compassion [Internet]. [Cited 2023 Dec 15]. Available at: How to Practice Self-Compassion: 8 Techniques and Tips (positivepsychology.com)
Get in touch with our Careline experts
When your little one is unhappy or unwell you want reliable support from a trusted source. Our Careline team of nutritionists, dietitians and midwives specialise in infant and child health, offering free nutrition, feeding and product information.
