Your baby can tell the difference between familiar voices and other sounds, and is becoming a better listener. You may even notice your baby looking around to see where certain noises are coming from.

An ongoing conversation (although seemingly one-sided) will help your baby develop his or her sense of language. Your little one may even watch your mouth as you talk, fascinated by how it all works. And you may be amazed by your baby's ability to communicate with a growing repertory of coos (musical, vowel-like sounds), smiles, and unique cries to express different needs.

Into complex designs

At this point, your baby will begin to move beyond his or her early preferences for bright or two-toned objects toward more detailed and complicated designs, colors, and shapes. Show your baby – and let him or her touch – a wider variety of objects. Good choices include plastic cookie cutters, soft balls, and stuffed animals.

A helping hand

The chaotic first months are over and your baby's schedule is probably becoming more predictable. If you're raising your baby with a partner, it's important that both of you get a chance to care for and bond with your little one. Make sure each parent has regular baby-and-me time for bathing, changing, and just getting tuned in to your baby's needs.

If you're a single parent, try to find another adult, such as a grandparent or an aunt, to spend time with your baby. This will give your child an opportunity to bond with other loving adults and give you a welcome break from the hard work of parenting a newborn.

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