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This Issue's  Highlight

Cherishing Life's new issue deals with emotional and psychological growth and development of babies since birth.The factors that effect the emotional and psychological well-being of kids depends on better communication ,play time with parents and better sleeping patterns.These issues are discussed according to the age of babies.

Communication with your kids             

Play to Teach                  

Sleeping Guide for Parents         

Learn more about the Flu and Preventatives.                                      

Developmental  milestones  for   first   two   years                   

Training    kids:  walking,  speaking,  potty   training, reading  &writing                  

Growing    Up

Proper and quality communication with your baby since the time of birth not only is necessary for the emotional and psychological development but also , it strenghtens the bond between mother and baby and provides him emtional support.

Communication with your 1 -2 Years old            

Communication with your 2-3 years old           

Communication with your 4-5 years old

Language development really takes off during this time, especially as your baby approaches the second birthday.

Kids this age can better able to comprehend what is said to them and express what they want. They take joy in their ability to understand more complex directions — and won't hesitate to give directions of their own.

How Babies Communicate

Most babies say their first words in the beginning of this period, though some start even sooner and others don't start until they're nearly 2 years old. A baby who is preoccupied with learning to walk may push talking to the back burner; it's not unusual and is nothing to be alarmed about.

Babies this age might have learned fragments of dozens of words that probably won't be recognizable yet. When they get around to talking, though, they'll probably progress quickly and soon be able to point at something familiar and say its name, and recognize names of familiar people, objects, and body parts.

By 2 years old, babies may use phrases and even two- to four-word sentences, although your doctor will only expect to hear that your child is putting two words together.

No matter when babies say their first words, it's a sure bet they already understanding much of what is said to them before that. Your child should be able to respond to commands ("Roll the ball to Mommy") and should be fully aware of the names of familiar objects and family members.

You might find yourself struggling with your toddler to do as you say, only to have him or her ignore you or scream in protest. Toddlers like testing limits and their degree of control. By 18 months, most have mastered saying "no" with authority, and by age 2 may throw a tantrum when they're unwilling to do something. They'll also show signs of possessiveness — expect to hear "mine" or see tears if something is taken away or you show attention to someone else.

Language development really takes off during this time, especially as your baby approaches the second birthday.

Kids this age can better able to comprehend what is said to them and express what they want. They take joy in their ability to understand more complex directions — and won't hesitate to give directions of their own.

How Babies Communicate

Most babies say their first words in the beginning of this period, though some start even sooner and others don't start until they're nearly 2 years old. A baby who is preoccupied with learning to walk may push talking to the back burner; it's not unusual and is nothing to be alarmed about.

Babies this age might have learned fragments of dozens of words that probably won't be recognizable yet. When they get around to talking, though, they'll probably progress quickly and soon be able to point at something familiar and say its name, and recognize names of familiar people, objects, and body parts.

By 2 years old, babies may use phrases and even two- to four-word sentences, although your doctor will only expect to hear that your child is putting two words together.

No matter when babies say their first words, it's a sure bet they already understanding much of what is said to them before that. Your child should be able to respond to commands ("Roll the ball to Mommy") and should be fully aware of the names of familiar objects and family members.

You might find yourself struggling with your toddler to do as you say, only to have him or her ignore you or scream in protest. Toddlers like testing limits and their degree of control. By 18 months, most have mastered saying "no" with authority, and by age 2 may throw a tantrum when they're unwilling to do something. They'll also show signs of possessiveness — expect to hear "mine" or see tears if something is taken away or you show attention to someone else.

What Should I Do?

Your baby is listening to everything you say, and storing it away at an incredible rate. Instead of using "baby" words, teach your child the correct names for people, places, and things. Speak slowly and clearly, and keep it simple.

Your baby may still be communicating with gestures such as pointing to something he or she wants. Gestures are OK, but you should use a running commentary such as, "Do you want a drink?" (when he or she points to the refrigerator), then wait for a response. Then say, "What do you want? Milk? OK, let's get some milk." Such behavior encourages your baby to respond and participate in conversations. But don't frustrate your baby by withholding food or drink waiting for a response.

Between 15 and 18 months, your baby will probably begin to enjoy language games that ask him or her to identify things, such as: "Where's your ear?" and "Where is Mommy?" Your child's vocabulary will grow quickly, but pronunciation isn't likely to keep pace. Resist the temptation to correct your baby's pronunciation; most babies mispronounce their words. Instead, emphasize the correct pronunciation in your response.

Should I Be Concerned?

Some babies don't talk until their second birthday and choose instead to get by with the use of gestures and sounds. Vocabulary varies widely at this age, too; some babies say dozens of words, others only a few.

Most babies this age have these communication milestones in common:

• speak about 15 words by 18 months
• put two words together to form a sentence by age 2
• follow simple directions by age 2

Hearing problems may become more apparent during this stage because of the emergence of speech. Don't hesitate to report any concerns you have to your doctor immediately, especially if you feel your child is not babbling or responding to your speech patterns. Sometimes chronic ear infections can leave kids with excessive fluid buildup that can interfere with normal hearing. Special tests can check for hearing loss.

Some parents worry that a toddler who is not speaking may have autism. Children with autism and related conditions may have delayed speech or other problems with communication, but poor social interactions, and limited or restricted interests or patterns of behavior are also hallmarks of the disorder. If you have any questions or concerns about your child's development, talk with your doctor.

Your GMAT Score and Score Report

Communicating with a child, from infancy onward, is one of the most pleasurable and rewarding experiences for both parent and child. Children learn by absorbing information through daily interactions and experiences with other kids, adults, and the world.

Communicating With Your Child

The more interactive conversation and play kids are involved in, the more they learn. Reading books, singing, playing word games, and simply talking to kids will increase their vocabulary while providing increased listening opportunities.

Here are a few suggestions to help improve your child's communication skills:

• Talk to your toddler about what he or she did during the day or plans to do tomorrow. "I think it's going to rain this afternoon. What shall we do?" Or discuss the day's events at bedtime.
• Play make-believe games.
• Read favorite books over and over and encourage your child to join in with words he or she knows. Encourage "pretend" reading (letting your child "read" a book to you).

Vocabulary and Communication Patterns

Between the ages of 2 and 3, kids experience a tremendous growth spurt in language skills. By age 2, most kids can follow simple directions and speak about 50 to 200 words. Many kids also begin to echo what they hear and start combining words in short phrases.

Kids this age usually can follow additional instructions, such as "Come to Daddy." A 3-year-old's vocabulary typically is between 200 and 300 words, and many kids begin to string words together in short sentences.

Kids at this stage of language development start to understand more and speak more clearly, and they're usually able to use language to engage in a simple question-and-answer format.

By age 3, kids should be using language freely, experimenting with sounds, and beginning to use language to solve problems and learn concepts. They can also count three objects correctly and will know their age. However, although they use and understand many words, only about 75% of what they say will be understandable to others.

If You Suspect a Problem

If you suspect your child is having trouble with hearing, language acquisition, or speech clarity, call your doctor. A hearing test may be one of the first steps in determining if your child has a hearing problem. Two years of age is not too young for a referral for a speech/language evaluation, particularly if your child is not following directions or answering "yes" or "no" to simple questions.

A speech-language pathologist (an expert who evaluates and treats speech and language disorders) may recommend:

• direct therapy
• referral to a developmental pediatrician if there is suspicion of a global developmental delay (delays in more than one area of development, including gross motor, fine motor, problem-solving, language, and social skills)
• early intervention services
• a follow-up assessment to see if your child will catch up over time

Typical Communication Problems

Communication problems for 2- to 3-year-olds include:

• hearing difficulties
• problems following directions
• poor vocabulary acquisition
• speech dysfluencies (difficulty initiating or sustaining sounds)
• delayed acquisition of phrasing skills
• unclear speech

Problems — such as stuttering — may be a developmental process that some kids will outgrow. For others, more intensive therapy may be needed. Medical professionals, such as speech pathologists, therapists, or your doctor, can help your child overcome these communication problems.

Some parents worry that a toddler who is not speaking may have autism. Children with autism and related conditions may have delayed speech or other problems with communication, but poor social interactions, and limited or restricted interests or patterns of behavior are also hallmarks of this disorder.

 The more interactive conversation and play kids are involved in, the more they learn. Reading books, singing, playing word games, and simply talking to kids will increase their vocabulary while providing increased opportunities to develop listening skills.

Here are a few suggestions to improve your child's communication skills:

• Help your child relate to books by selecting stories that mirror families like yours or people from your cultural or ethnic group.
• Keep books, magazines, and other reading material where kids can reach them without help.
• Help kids create their own "This Is Me" or "This Is Our Family" album with photographs or mementos.
• Talk with your child about books or TV programs and videos that you watch together.
• Let your child see you reading and enjoying books.

Vocabulary and Communication Patterns

As kids gain mastery over language skills, they become more sophisticated in their conversational abilities. Kids ages 4 to 5 years can follow complex directions and enthusiastically talk about things they do. They can make up stories, listen attentively to stories, and retell stories.

At this age, kids usually are able to understand that letters and numbers are symbols of real things and ideas, and that they can be used to tell stories and offer information.

Sentence structures now incorporate up to eight words, and vocabulary is between 1,000 and 2,000 words. Most kids this age should have intelligible speech, although there may be some developmental sound errors and stuttering, particularly among boys.

Preschoolers generally are able to make comments and requests and give directions. They should know the names and gender of family members and other personal information. They often play with words and make up silly words and stories.

If You Suspect a Problem

If you suspect your child has a problem with hearing, language acquisition, or speech clarity, talk to your doctor. A hearing test may be one of the first steps to determine if your child has a hearing problem. If a specific communication deficit or delay is suspected, the doctor may recommend a speech-language evaluation. A child who also appears to be delayed in other areas of development may be referred to a developmental pediatrician or psychologist.

A speech-language pathologist (an expert who evaluates and treats speech and language disorders) may:

• recommend direct therapy or preschool special education services
• make a referral to an audiologist (hearing specialist), developmental pediatrician, or psychologist

Typical Communication Problems

Communication problems among kids in this age group include:

• hearing difficulties
• problems following complex directions
• difficulty with conversational interaction
• poor vocabulary acquisition
• difficulty learning preschool concepts, such as colors and counting
• stuttering
• difficulties with grammar and syntax
• unclear speech

Some kids will outgrow these problems. For others, more intensive therapy may be needed. Medical professionals, such as speech pathologists, therapists, or your doctor, can help your child overcome communication problems.

Playing with your baby or toddler is not only the most pleasurable time for your baby but also, you can convert it into quality time and can teach them lots of things.

Play to Teach your 8-12 months old               

Play to Teach your 1-2 years old

What Kids Are Learning                                 

Kids transition from babies to toddlers during the second year of life, as tentative first steps give way to confident walking. As your toddler starts exploring, be sure to childproof your home to prevent household accidents.

Language. Kids this age also make major strides in understanding language and figuring out how to communicate. At 12 months, most say their first word and start to use hand gestures and point to things. Gradually, their vocabulary will grow from one or two words to 50 words or more.

Your child will learn about language through interaction with you and other caregivers. During year two, a toddler's vocabulary increases slowly over the first 6 months and then expands quickly during the second 6 months, when many start to use simple two-word sentences. By the second birthday, you'll probably lose count of the number of words your toddler can say!

Understanding of language also improves — most toddlers understand much more than they can express.

Playing. Hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity will also improve. Toddlers gain better control over fingers and hands and can explore toys and surroundings more than before. Look for toys that encourage this, as mastering age-appropriate toys and games gives toddlers a sense of satisfaction and encourages them to move on to more challenging tasks.

How kids play also changes. As an infant, your child may have "played" with toys by shaking, banging, or throwing them. Your toddler now is aware of the function of objects, so is more likely to stack blocks, listen or talk into a toy phone, or push a toy car. In addition, the concept of pretend play starts to emerge. Your little one may pretend to drink from an empty cup, use a banana as a phone, or imagine a block is a car.

Emotions at Play

Play Dates.  Many parents introduce play dates now. Toddlers enjoy having other kids around, but don't expect them to "play" cooperatively with each other or to be enthusiastic about sharing toys. Have plenty of toys for everyone and be prepared to intervene when they don't want to share. Older siblings can serve as role models when it comes to teaching, sharing, and taking turns.

Emotions. Tantrums are more common during the toddler years, so expect your child to get frustrated from time to time. If you see a tantrum coming on, try to create a distraction with a book or interesting toy. Avoid letting your child get too tired or hungry, particularly while trying to master new tasks, as this can set the stage for tantrums.

While learning to walk during the second year of life, kids will also start becoming increasingly independent. But expect your child to fluctuate between wanting freedom and clinging to you for comfort and reassurance. Allow the freedom to explore but be there when you're needed.

If it hasn't come up yet, your child may develop separation anxiety, crying and clinging to you when you try to leave and resisting attention from others.

The onset of separation anxiety — and how long it lasts — varies widely from child to child. It often starts around 9 months of age, but can begin later. It improves as kids master the language and social skills to cope with strange situations and start to learn that the separation is not permanent.

Toddlers are increasingly aware of their surroundings, so distractions might disrupt them at bedtime. Their growing imaginations can start to interrupt sleep, too. Now more than ever, a simple and consistent bedtime routine is a parent's best bet for getting a sleepy toddler snugly into bed.

Toddlers and Sleep

You're the best judge of how much sleep your child needs. Most toddlers between the ages of 1 and 2 require about 10-13 hours of sleep a day. Whether all these hours are slept at night or split up between nighttime sleeping and daytime naps is up to you.

Some parents find that their kids need that sleep during the day. Others find that daytime napping interferes with a good night's sleep and that a rest period (quiet playing or reading) works better. If this occurs, you may want to combine two short naps into one or do away with naps altogether. That's OK— kids don't need to nap every single day.

It may take several weeks of experimenting until you find the right combination of sleep and naps. Just make sure your toddler is getting enough rest. It can mean the difference between a happy, sunny disposition and a cranky, hard-to-manage child. Try to get in tune with your little one's needs and personality.

Where and How Should a Toddler Sleep?

Most likely your 1- to 2-year-old will still be sleeping in a safe, secure crib. Remember not to put any extra-large soft toys or stuffed animals in the crib, and look out for items with ties or strings that could wind up around your toddler's neck. Also, be on constant lookout for nearby objects your child might be able to reach from a standing position in the crib: curtains, window blind pulls, pictures, or wall hangings are all possibilities.

Your curious toddler may be looking for ways to climb over the crib railing in an effort to "break out" of the crib. Don't leave a lot of toys to pile up and climb, and if you haven't taken down those bumper pads, do it now so that your child doesn't try to use them as a step.

If you have an active climber who is getting out of the crib and suddenly appearing in the living room, you might want to consider moving him or her to a bed. It will be difficult at first to keep your toddler in it, but at least you'll know your child won't be hurt climbing out of a crib.

Your toddler also may begin waking up at night, for several reasons. Sometimes it's discomfort, such as teething pain or illness. Sometimes it's mild separation anxiety: "Where's Mommy? Where's Daddy?" Dreams and nightmares can begin to affect toddlers, who have a difficult time distinguishing these from reality. Be mindful of any videos or books he or she sees just before bedtime, and keep the content mild.

Look around for an environmental cause for your toddler's nighttime awakenings. Toddlers are notorious for not staying covered at night, so in the colder months you might want to dress your child in heavy pajamas for warmth.

Is there too much noise coming from an adjoining room? Toddlers will learn to sleep with some noise, but a loud TV or too much conversation close by can be disrupting.

Check out your child's room from your perspective. Make it someplace you would sleep soundly and chances are you'll make it more comfortable for your toddler.

Helping Your Child Sleep

By now you've probably found the right combination — like a warm bath and a bedtime story — that helps relax your child. Stay with it and don't let it get overly long. The backrub that seems like a treat now may not be so appealing when it's demanded night after night for longer and longer periods. Decide how many drinks of water you'll allow and how many times you'll retrieve the toy that's thrown out of the crib in defiance of bedtime.

Get used to setting the rules and sticking to them. This not only helps your child get more sleep now, but also helps you later if other, more serious discipline problems arise.

If your toddler awakens in the middle of the night, just as when he or she was younger, you'll want to quietly and quickly provide reassurance that everything is OK and you are close by. But too much interaction can backfire, so keep your nighttime "visits" brief and boring for your toddler.

If you have an early riser, you can help keep sunlight from waking your toddler by keeping curtains or blinds closed. Also try putting a few safe toys in the crib — they may keep your child busy in the morning.

When to Call the Doctor

Sleep problems that seem severe to you, such as recurring nightmares, should be discussed with your doctor.

Sleeping properly is one of the main causes of good growth and development,but making your baby /toddler to have good sleep is often the most difficult part of parenting.

Sleep and your 1-3 months old       

Sleep and your 4-7 months old          

Sleep and your 8-12 months old            

Sleep and your 1-2 years old

Your baby's sleep phases are much the same as your own: drowsiness, REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, light sleep, deep sleep, and very deep sleep. Your baby might start sleeping through the night now — but the definition of "sleeping through the night" at this age is a stretch of only 5 hours!

How Long Will My Baby Sleep?

Since babies are more alert and aware of their immediate surroundings during the daylight hours, they're more inclined to sleep during the night, especially if parents fight the urge to play or talk to their baby during nighttime feedings or diaper changes.

Your baby is adapting to the sleep-wake cycle that parents favor, and the baby's stomach is growing and holding more breast milk or formula. At 3 months of age your baby will likely sleep about 15 hours out of each 24-hour period, and two thirds of that sleep will take place during the night.

Most babies will have settled into a daily sleep routine of two or three sleep periods during the day, followed by "sleeping through the night" for 6 to 7 hours after a late-night feeding.

If your baby is sleeping a lot when you want him or her awake — or vice versa — encourage wakefulness during the day while also allowing your baby to have distinct sleeping periods. You also can rouse your baby for the late-night feeding at a time that suits your sleep schedule. For instance, if your baby gets sleepy after the 7 p.m. feeding and sleeps until 2 a.m. before feeding again, wake the baby to feed at 11 p.m. and then put him or her down to sleep until an early-morning feeding at 5 or 6 a.m. It may take a few nights to establish this routine, but it will happen if you're consistent.

If your baby wakes during the period that you want him or her to be sleeping, keep activity to a minimum. Change or feed your baby in the dark, and don't play with the baby. Your little one will start to get the message that you're a bore during the night, so he or she might as well just go back to sleep.

Again, not all infants keep to the same timetable. If you have questions or concerns, check with your doctor.

Where and How Should My Baby Sleep?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that healthy infants be placed on their backs to sleep, not on their stomachs. The incidence of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) has decreased by more than 40% since this recommendation was first made in 1992. It is now also recommended that premature infants sleep only on their backs.

It is thought that some babies sleeping on their stomachs may have a greater tendency toward sleep obstruction and rebreathing their own carbon dioxide because they're less likely to rouse themselves to change head positions. Another possibility is that they may suffocate on softer bedding if they're lying face-down.

Once your child is rolling over on his or her own, around 5 to 6 months of age, you no longer need to worry about sleep positioning. If you have difficulty getting your baby to sleep on his or her back before this age, though, talk to your doctor.

Always keep sleep safety in mind. Make sure your crib meets current safety standards. Don't put anything in the crib that can interfere with your baby's breathing — stuffed animals, blankets, or soft pillows can fall on a baby's face and become a problem.

Always keep sleep safety in mind. Do not place anything in the crib or bassinet that may interfere with your baby's breathing; this includes plush toys, pillows, and blankets. Although bumper pads are widely used, their safety has been questioned. One study from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission found a number of accidental deaths appeared to be related to the use of bumper pads in cribs and bassinets. The Canadian Pediatric Society has recommended against the use of bumper pads since 2004. If you do use bumpers, it’s best to use the kind that secure at the top and bottom. 

Also, avoid items with ties or ribbons that can wrap around a baby's neck, and objects with any kind of sharp edge or corner.

Many cultures endorse cosleeping. But studies indicate that there is a greater incidence of SIDS in households where the infant slept in the bed with the parents. Use of substances that decrease the parents' awareness, such as alcohol, also may allow a parent to roll over onto the baby.

Encouraging Sleep

If you haven't already, try establishing a bedtime routine that will be familiar and relaxing for your baby. Bathing, reading, and singing can be soothing for parents and babies and signal an end to the day. Be consistent, and your baby will soon associate these steps with sleeping.

Remember: if part of your bedtime routine is to rock your baby for half an hour, then whenever waking during the night your baby is going to expect and need that step to get back to sleep. Ideally, your baby should be put into a crib or bassinet while drowsy but still awake. This way your baby will learn to fall asleep on his or her own.

Although it may be hard at first, some experts suggest this is also the age to start letting your baby fuss for a few minutes when he or she wakes during the night. Your baby may simply be in a phase of light slumber, even though you think your baby is totally awake. Some babies squirm, whine, and even cry in their sleep before putting themselves back to sleep.

Unless you suspect that your baby is hungry or ill, try to see what happens if you leave your baby alone. It will help you all in the long run if your baby can develop the skill of going back to sleep without your help.

By this age, your baby should be well on the way toward an established sleep pattern. Most likely the pattern includes at least two naps a day, plus at least 7 or 8 hours of nighttime sleep.

During these months, your baby will learn to roll over and position himself or herself for sleep. Toward the end of this period, your little one may be able to stay awake or be kept awake by surroundings, so this is the time to instill good sleep habits by sticking to a bedtime routine.

How Long Will My Baby Sleep?

While the average number of hours slept per day at this age is 14, the range of normal is quite wide, with some babies sleeping only 9 hours and others sleeping as much as 18.

The average amount of daytime sleep now is 3-4 hours. Some babies will nap 20 minutes, others will sleep much longer than average.

Remember that your baby would rather be with you than anywhere else. So your tot may need more sleep, but wakes after a 20-minute nap because he or she would just rather be playing with you than sleeping. As your baby becomes a toddler and starts resisting naps, it's still a good idea to have a period of quiet time, for both of you.

Naps usually help prevent a baby from becoming too cranky to sleep well at night, allowing your baby (and you) to enjoy the waking hours more. Most babies this age like to nap once in the morning, then again sometime after lunch.

If you feel the naps are interfering with your baby's bedtime, you can wake the baby from an afternoon nap a little earlier. But if your baby is overly tired, he or she will not sleep well at night.

How and Where Should My Baby Sleep?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that healthy infants be placed on their backs to sleep, not on their stomachs. The incidence of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) has decreased by more than 40% since this recommendation was first made in 1992. It's now also recommended that premature infants sleep only on their backs.

Until your baby is rolling over unaided and picking a position for sleep, place your little one on his or her back to sleep. It is thought that some babies sleeping on their stomachs may have a greater tendency toward sleep obstruction and rebreathing their own carbon dioxide because they're less likely to rouse themselves to change head positions. Another possibility is that they may suffocate on softer bedding if they are lying face-down.

Many cultures endorse cosleeping. But studies indicate that there is a greater incidence of SIDS in households where the infant slept in the bed with the parents. Use of substances that decrease the parents' awareness, such as alcohol, also may allow a parent to roll over onto the baby.

Always keep safety in mind. Make sure your crib meets current safety standards. Don't put anything in the crib that can interfere with your baby's breathing — stuffed animals, blankets, or soft pillows can fall on a baby's face and block breathing. Although bumper pads are widely used, their safety has been questioned. One study from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission found a number of accidental deaths appeared to be related to the use of bumper pads in cribs and bassinets. The Canadian Pediatric Society has recommended against the use of bumper pads since 2004. If you do use bumpers, it’s best to use the kind that secure at the top and bottom. Also, avoid items with ties or ribbons that can wrap around a baby's neck, and objects with any kind of sharp edge or corner.

If you do use bumpers, remove them once your baby is pulling up using the sides of the crib. Bumpers can give your baby a dangerous "leg up" for climbing out of the crib and falling. Babies can also get tangled in hanging mobiles, so remove them as well. Don't forget to look around for the things that your baby can touch from a standing position in the crib. Wall hangings, pictures, draperies, and window blind cords are potentially harmful if left within your baby's reach.

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Though your baby is beginning to develop in so many positive ways, certain sleep problems may start to crop up near the first birthday. These are often due to your baby's increased awareness of "separateness" from you. Stranger anxiety and separation anxiety are two normal stages of development that can occur during this time, and they can interfere with much-needed nighttime sleep for you and your baby.

This may mean tears and tantrums when you try to leave your child in the crib at night — and more sleep interruption when your baby wakes up and looks around for some sign that you're near. This is also the age when night terrors can appear. These can be more "terrifying" for the parent than the baby if you're not sure what is happening.

It can be difficult to respond to your 8- to 12-month-old's nighttime needs with the right balance of concern and consistency, but remember: This is the time to set the stage for future restful nights for the whole family. The important thing now is to try to keep the sleep experience a positive one for your baby and to be consistent with your response to wakefulness at night.

How Long Will My Baby Sleep?

While the average amount of sleep per day at this age is 13 to 14 hours, the range of normal is still quite wide at this stage.

Your baby is probably still taking two naps a day — one in the morning and another sometime after lunch. The average length of a nap now is about 1 hour. Some babies will nap 20 minutes, others a few hours. Naps help prevent your baby from becoming too cranky to sleep well at night, so it is important that they be long enough.

This is the age when your baby may start resisting taking naps because he or she doesn't want to be away from you, but naps will help your little one (and you) enjoy the waking hours more. The key is to be as consistent as possible with nap times and your approach to putting your child in the crib.

Where and How Should My Baby Sleep?

By this age, most babies are rolling over and picking a comfortable position for sleep. Your baby will move around a lot during the course of a night's rest!

Night terrors can begin at this age, so don't be surprised if your baby starts screaming and crying in the middle of the night and nothing you do seems to help. Night terrors are different from nightmares. Night terrors occur during the deep part of sleep and although they may seem worrisome to you, your baby is actually still asleep — even if your baby's eyes are open — and has no idea that he or she is crying. Make sure that your baby is safe and he or she will eventually quiet down. Nightmares usually start around 3 to 4 years of age and children wake up from them feeling scared.

When your baby wakes up in the night and cries for you, remember not to reward this behavior or it may continue for a long time. Reassure your baby quietly that you're there, but then send the message that he or she needs to go back to sleep. The best bet may be a soothing pat on the back, a repositioning of the blanket, and a quick exit. If you are firm and consistent about requiring your baby to put herself or himself back to sleep, this stage should pass pretty quickly.

Of course, during these middle-of-the-night "visits" with your baby you'll want to rule out illness or a very soiled diaper. If you do need to change your baby, remember not to turn on too many lights and to keep interaction to a minimum.

Always keep safety in mind. Make sure your crib meets current safety standards. Don't put anything in the crib that can interfere with your baby's breathing — stuffed animals, blankets, or soft pillows can fall on a baby's face and block breathing. Although bumper pads are widely used, their safety has been questioned. One study from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission found a number of accidental deaths appeared to be related to the use of bumper pads in cribs and bassinets. The Canadian Pediatric Society has recommended against the use of bumper pads since 2004. If you do use bumpers, it’s best to use the kind that secure at the top and bottom. Also, avoid items with ties or ribbons that can wrap around a baby's neck, and objects with any kind of sharp edge or corner.

If you use bumpers, remove them once your baby is pulling up using the sides of the crib. Bumpers can give your baby a dangerous "leg up" for climbing out of the crib and falling. Babies can also get tangled in hanging mobiles, so remove them as well. Don't forget to look around for the things that your baby can touch from a standing position in the crib. Wall hangings, pictures, draperies, and window blind cords are potentially harmful if left within your baby's reach.

Encouraging Sleep

Your child is attached to you and doesn't like to be away from you, but try to handle nighttime "detachment" the same way you manage separation anxiety during the day (for example, when you leave your child with a babysitter). Follow your usual bedtime routine with an extra hug and kiss, let your baby know that you will see him or her soon, and make a quick exit.

If your baby has a favorite toy or blanket that you feel is safe to have in the crib, it can be left for comfort. This is when "transitional" objects become important to babies. They help your baby transition from being with you most of the time to having some time away from you and becoming more independent.

Try leaving your baby's door open so he or she can hear your activity in the next room. This may help your little one feel less alone. If your child keeps on crying and calling for you, a few words of reassurance from the bedroom door ("Mommy's right here but it's time for you to go to sleep now") and another quick exit may do the trick. Try to lengthen the time between these personal appearances until — at long last — your baby is asleep.

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