Each baby grows and develops at his or her own rate. Some babies seem to be born talkers while others are the movers. Some babies develop slowly in all areas. By respecting what is special, parents can help children develop at their own pace. If you are concerned that your baby may be developing too slowly in some area, talk with your doctor. Use a checklist to see how your baby is developing. You can get one from your doctor. Is your baby doing anything now that he wasn’t doing last month? Look for your baby’s growth in each area, and gently help him to learn new things. Use your baby’s due date, rather than the birth date, for keeping track of how your baby is developing. Ask a friend who knows what infants are like to come and watch with you to decide if your baby really is or is not doing the activities listed. Take notes and date them. In a few days, ask another person who knows what infants are like to watch what your baby does. Again, keep notes. Compare the notes. Write down your concerns. Show your doctor the list of concerns and the notes you took while watching your baby. Ask the doctor's office to make a copy of this information and add it to your child's file. Keep your set of notes where you keep your child's other health information.

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