44 Week Old Baby Milestones 👶
Week forty-four is here, and curiosity is in full force! Have you noticed that you can’t turn your eye—even for a second—without your little one getting into your drawers, closets, pantry… you name it?! It’s been an amazing journey for him thus far, perfecting his ability to not only move, but to manipulate items around the house with his fine motor skills.
To keep baby stimulated, try:
- Rotating toys. Babies need variety and excitement—just like adults. Be sure to rotate toys, so that they don’t get sick of the same old, same old.
- Finding substitutes. Does baby really want your phone? Does she eye the scissors when you’re using them? At this stage, babies are very observant and learn by mimicking your actions. But obviously some items are not safe for a baby to play with. If baby shows interests in items you don't want them to have, see if you can find play alternatives.
- Using real life stuff. Little ones like to feel engaged. See if you can come up with creative ways to include baby in whatever task you're working on. If you’re cooking, give her a few wooden spoons or measuring cups to play with. If you're gardening, let her gnaw on a clean gardening glove. If you're styling your hair, give baby a small comb and show her how to comb her own hair.
These simple strategies will not only keep baby occupied, but will also help her continue to learn about the world around her.
44 week old baby Mama Natural Baby Tracker
You at 44 Weeks Postpartum 👩
With your little one getting closer and closer to that one year mark, has the thought of trying for a second popped into your head? Some mamas find that baby fever strikes around this time; others aren’t quite in that place—and that’s okay, too! There are many factors to think about when deciding if or when you’re ready to have a second child:
- Maternal age: Some mamas find that age plays a big role in helping them decide whether or not to make the leap into a second pregnancy or not. For me, this played a role in my third pregnancy.
- Age gap of children: How close or how far apart in age they your children be from each other? I personally decided to wait a little longer (three years) before my second pregnancy—here's why!
- Ability to conceive naturally: Let’s be honest, getting pregnant isn’t easy for all women. Some mamas try for years before falling pregnant, while others may need medical intervention. And still other mamas have trouble sustaining a pregnancy. (Read about my experience here.) All of this can play a huge role in the decision to try for a second.
- One and done: Maybe you’ve decided that you’re totally satisfied with just one baby. More power to ya!
Whatever you decide to do, you know that you’re doing what’s best for you and your family. And remember, if you do decide to get it on and try for a second pregnancy, remember to check out our Mama Natural Week-By-Week Guide to Childbirth and Pregnancy! But if you’re not quite ready, check out these natural birth control options.