Recognizes the Smell of Mama's Milk
Type of Milestone: Cognitive
Practice with Baby: If you are breastfeeding, place a breast pad near Baby's head. Even babies who are just a few hours old will turn their heads toward the familiar scent.

Mama Must-Know: When babies are met with a choice between their mother's breast pad and a breast pad with a different mother's milk on it, not only do they recognize their mom's smell, they prefer it.

Brings Hands Toward Eyes & Mouth
Type of Milestone: Physical
Practice with Baby: Touching your baby prompts her to move the parts of her body you touch. Kiss her hands and feet, stroke her arms and legs, and gently tickle her face.

Mama Must-Know: For the first several weeks, Baby's hands might remain in tight fists. Her tight, ball-like body position mimics the way she fit in your tummy.

Prefers Human Faces
Type of Milestone: Cognitive
Practice with Baby: When you are holding or feeding your baby, keep your face within his range of vision. Smile, sing, and talk to Baby to keep his attention.

Mama Must-Know: While live faces are best, babies prefer even pictures of faces over other patterns.

Turns Toward Familiar Sounds & Voices
Type of Milestone: Cognitive
Practice with Baby: Sing or talk to your baby in a high-pitched "baby talk" voice from across the room. See if she turns her head to find you. Also see if her arms and legs are moving or kicking in time with the rhythm of your speech.

Mama Must-Know: Most babies receive a hearing screening before they leave the hospital. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends you ask your pediatrician to share the results.

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