Social Development in Babies
Parents of young children are often concerned about their social development, especially in light of rising autism rates. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, about 1 in 150 children are diagnosed with a disorder on the autism spectrum.
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Milestones
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Babies begin to smile, coo and briefly hold someone’s gaze by three months. Babies smile by five months and show affection, play peekaboo and babble by eight months. Children usually say "mama" and "dada" by 12 months.
Warnings
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Parents should pay special attention to their child's social development. If you have any concerns about your baby's social development, you should speak to your pediatrician.
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Stimulation
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You can stimulate your babies by talking during daily activities, singing and reading. Introducing babies to other children and parents and playing with a baby on the floor every day are also activities that aid social development.
Considerations
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Parents should keep in mind their own child's personality. Having a shy child is not necessarily a reason to worry. A milestone is only a guideline. Every child is different and works at his own pace.
Theories/Speculation
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Some parents feel there is a link between autism and vaccines, but there hasn't been scientific evidence as of September 2009 to support that claim.
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References
- American Academy of Pediatrics
- The Complete and Authoritative Guide: Caring for Your Baby and Young Child Birth to Age Five; Steven P. Shelov, M.D., M.S.; 2005
