Spread their arms out as if they’re trying to fly
This is a defensive strategy babies developed back in the day, when they didn’t have slings to keep them safely strapped to their mums. Experts call it the Moro reflex, and it happens when you baby gets the sensation that he’s falling (even if he’s not). They fling their arms out at either side, because years ago it would help them hang onto their mothers. This reflex usually subsides after about three months, but it’s a good sign that their nervous system is developing properly.
Jitterbug
Your baby may be fine one minute, and all jittery the next. This can be a blip in their nervous system as they’re not very good at regulating their movement. Of course, if your baby is shaking a lot, you should visit your GP.
Touching themselves
If you’ve noticed your baby touching himself down below, don’t worry. Babies are curious creatures and are just learning as much as they can. When you think about it, they’re always playing with their hands and feet, we just don’t notice because it seems like a normal thing to do.
They can’t sit down
The first time your baby stands up is a momentous occasion, but whether or not they can sit back down again is another story. Sitting down takes a lot of practice and coordination – he’ll get there in time!
Fake coughing
If you’ve ever seen your baby fake coughing, it’s because they’ve realised that when other people cough, they get some attention. It usually starts about six months and is a good sign that they’re becoming more socially aware.
They can’t stop hiccupping
We all get hiccups, but babies seem to get them much worse than adults. The reason is that their swallowing and breathing abilities aren’t fully synchronised, so they could be trying to swallow at the same time as taking a breath, and this will start off the hiccups again.
