In these early months, newborns are learning to feel comfortable in the outside world. They are working on regulating their eating and sleeping cycles and even their body temperature. What's most important for babies during this time is that they feel comfortable, safe, and secure. When they do, they are not only better learners, they're also better able to connect with their loved ones. All the skills newborns are developing help them achieve these two critical goals.

Babies show an eagerness to learn about the things around them by turning toward sounds and looking at and tracking interesting sights. They learn to roll in order to get closer to you or a desired object. To communicate with you, they babble. They show their pleasure at seeing their favorite people by looking up and smiling, making sounds, and using gestures such as happily moving their arms and legs.