One of the most important things that parents can do for their children is to teach them how to be healthy. One way to stay healthy is to learn how much to eat, learn how it feels to be full, and how to be physically active. Your baby uses signals to “talk” with you. Learn to “read” his signals so he can depend on you. When you respond, he will learn to trust. It helps a lot for you to be there for your baby when he needs you. When your baby is hungry, he may: Begin to move his mouth Rapidly move his eyes in his sleep Try to suck on his hand or tongue, your shoulder or anything he can touch. Bob his head and search around. Be fussy, squirm, stretch, clench his fists or toes. When your baby has had enough food, he may: Push away the bottle or breast Turn his head away Put his hands in front of his mouth Cry and fuss Forcefully move his entire body away from you Smile and relax his body Fall asleep with the nipple in his mouth. Help your baby learn to enjoy moving. With your baby on his back, hold his ankles and gently move his legs as if he is pedaling a bicycle. Sing a song and keep rhythm with the movements. Lift his arms gently up and down over his head — and then in and out. With your baby on his back, hold a toy above his body. Encourage him to try to reach for it. Give your baby a gentle massage after his bath. Touching him helps you bond.

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