The Stars - Week 16

Last night, Mommy D and I were browsing over Theo's photos since he was born 16 weeks ago and we can't help but be amazed at how rapidly and dramatically he has changed these past few months. (You may review the archives to see this for yourself.)

By this time, he can already proficiently support his head and back when he is placed in a sitting position. He can also deliberately reach out and manipulate the mobile toys dangling from his crib. He can also track voices and faces with his ears and eyes, respectively. He can also respond very excitedly to conversation by smiling, cooing and babbling intentionally. Sometimes he would make the same repetitive sounds as if trying to express a thought or emotion. In other words, in terms of social, mental, motor and language development, he is very much on the right path.

I think much of it has to do with the tremendous amount of time and attention that we spend on him. One of the books that I'm reading says why this is important:

"Perhaps the most striking finding is the extent to which developmental progress during the first six months appears to be influenced by maternal stimulation. The amount and quality of stimulation are highly related to I.Q. These data suggest that mothers who give much and intense stimulation and encouragement to practice developmental skills tend to be successful in producing infants who make rapid developmental progress. The appropriateness of the stimulation to the child's individual and developmental characteristics as well as gratification of his needs and mother's affectional exchange, also help mental development."

To that, we say "Amen." Indeed, the first years last forever!

(Now you know why we are avidly maintaining this blog.)