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Infant Health & Development

Many factors affect the health and development of an infant. Optimal growth and development depend upon loving parenting, responsive care-giving, appropriate medical care, good nutrition, healthy sleep habits and a safe, nurturing environment. Parents, caregivers, family members and health care professionals all contribute in some way to the development of a healthy infant.

  1. General Health

    • Proper nutrition, rest and care-giving are essential to an infant's health. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests women breastfeed their infants for the first 12 months. Breast milk provides essential nutrients that promote an infant's growth, health and brain development. The AAP recommends placing babies on their backs during naps and at night to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). A consistent bedtime routine encourages healthy sleep patterns, which supports healthy growth and development.

    Safety

    • Infants need proper supervision to keep them safe from potential dangers. Childproof the nursery and other areas where the infant will be present. Keep medications, cleaning supplies, toxic substances, choking hazards and sharp objects out of reach to prevent accidental poisoning or choking. Prevent falls and drowning by using appropriate safety devices in homes and around pools. Do not place soft bedding in a crib or bassinet, because it could lead to infant suffocation. Properly install outlet protectors, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors throughout the home.

    Medical Care

    • The March of Dimes Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health of babies, recommends regular checkups (also called well-baby or preventive care visits) to monitor an infant's health, growth and development. Generally, well-baby visits are scheduled every two months until a baby reaches 6 months of age, and every three months thereafter until 18 months of age. Regular medical care can check that a baby is receiving proper nutrition, is current with immunizations and reaches normal developmental milestones. Potential health conditions and childhood illness can be diagnosed and treated before they become severe.

    Development

    • Every baby develops at a different rate. Parents and caregivers can encourage infant development by providing a nurturing environment that stimulates the senses. Infants who are frequently engaged in conversation and reading with their caregivers have more advanced language skills, according to Zero to Three, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the health and development of infants and toddlers. Zero to Three states that talking and listening to infants is one of the best ways to boost their brain development.

    Considerations

    • Infant health and development are linked to each other. Medical conditions can cause developmental delays and disorders. On the other hand, a child with developmental problems might have a greater risk of medical complications, according to the AAP. Regular developmental surveillance and screening can identify developmental strengths and weaknesses, as well as related health issues.

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