Building Blocks

This booklet describes typical development, activities and appropriate toys that will enhance development. Red flags, things to be concerned about, are listed at each age. For premature babies, remember to use their adjusted age when referencing this booklet (ex. If born three months early, subtract three months from age to compare development.) SAFETY Keep your baby safe at all times. Follow instructions for equipment like car seats, strollers, etc. Limit time spent in seats, walkers and swings to 10 minutes 1-2 times per day. Do NOT use rolling walkers or jumpers. TV - SCREEN TIME “Screen time” includes time spent watching TV and playing with electronic devices like computers and iPAds. You should limit having TV on when children are playing and turn off TV when no one is watching. Watch adult programming only when children are NOT present. For toddlers and older children make screen time interactive; talking about what they are seeing and encouraging them to use their minds and bodies to learn.

RED FLAGS FOR DEVELOPMENTAL PROBLEMS AT ANY AGE: t Unusual or excessive behaviors such as head banging or rocking self t Hurting others t Making unusual finger movements near face t Sometimes appears to be deaf t Bumping into or tripping over objects/furniture a lot t Frequently has difficulty sleeping or eating

REFERENCES Alabama Early Intervention Never Too Early AL Home Page | Alabama’s Early Intervention System Zero to Three http://www.zerotothree.org/ American Academy of Pediatrics www.healthychildren.org American Physical Therapy Association www.pediatricapta.org American Occupational Therapy Association www.aota.org American Speech and Hearing Association www.asha.org Tummy Time Tummy Time Tips | What You Need to Know About Tummy Time (pathways.org)

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