Glossary

A to Z Glossary of Terms for Newborn Parents (Ages 0-2)

B

Baby Monitor

A device used to remotely listen to or watch a baby while they are sleeping or playing in another room, often used for safety and peace of mind.

Babywearing

The practice of carrying a baby using a sling or carrier, keeping them close to the parent’s body while allowing for hands-free movement.

Bottle-feeding

Feeding a baby using a bottle, often containing expressed breast milk or formula as a substitute for direct breastfeeding.

Bowel Movements

A term used to describe the frequency, consistency, and color of a baby’s stool, often an indicator of their digestive health.

Breastfeeding

The process of feeding a baby directly from the mother’s breast, providing essential nutrients and antibodies that support healthy growth and immunity.

C

Cluster Feeding

A pattern where a baby feeds more frequently than usual, often in short intervals, usually during growth spurts or periods of increased hunger.

Colic

A condition where an otherwise healthy baby cries excessively and is difficult to soothe, typically lasting for more than three hours a day, more than three days a week, for at least three weeks.

Co-Sleeping

The practice of sleeping in close proximity to a baby, either in the same bed (bed-sharing) or in a separate sleeping space (room-sharing) to enhance bonding and nighttime care.

Cradle Cap

A common condition in newborns where patches of the scalp develop yellow, scaly, or crusty skin due to overproduction of oil.

D

Diaper Rash

A form of skin irritation that occurs in the diaper area due to prolonged exposure to moisture, bacteria, and friction.

Developmental Toys

Toys designed to promote early learning, fine motor skills, cognitive development, and sensory exploration, such as stacking rings, rattles, and soft books.

F

Formula

A manufactured food designed to feed babies, providing essential nutrients as an alternative to breast milk when breastfeeding is not an option.

G

Growth Spurts

Periods when a baby experiences rapid physical growth, often accompanied by increased feeding, fussiness, and sleep changes.

H

High Chair

A tall chair with a tray, used to safely seat a baby or toddler during mealtime as they begin to eat solid foods.

I

Immunization Schedule

A timeline recommended by health authorities outlining the vaccines babies should receive to protect against serious diseases during the first two years of life.

Infant Car Seat

A specially designed seat for safely transporting infants in a vehicle, typically rear-facing to protect the baby in case of accidents.

L

Lactation Consultant

A healthcare professional specialized in helping mothers with breastfeeding challenges, including latch issues, milk supply, and feeding techniques.

M

Milestones

Key physical, emotional, and cognitive skills that babies typically achieve at various ages, such as sitting up, crawling, walking, and first words.

P

Pacifier

A small, rubber or plastic object that a baby can suck on to soothe themselves and help with self-calming, especially during sleep.

Pediatrician

A medical doctor specializing in the health, growth, and development of babies, children, and adolescents.

Postpartum Depression

A form of depression that can affect new mothers, typically within the first year after childbirth, often characterized by sadness, fatigue, anxiety, and difficulty bonding with the baby.

S

Separation Anxiety

A developmental phase where a baby or toddler becomes distressed when separated from their primary caregiver, usually beginning around 8-12 months of age.

SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)

The sudden and unexplained death of a seemingly healthy baby, often during sleep, which can be reduced by practicing safe sleep habits.

Sleep Regression

A temporary disruption in a baby’s sleep pattern, often occurring around certain developmental milestones, such as 4 months, 8 months, and 18 months.

Sleep Sack

A wearable blanket designed to keep a baby warm and safe while sleeping, reducing the risk of suffocation compared to loose blankets.

Sleep Training

Methods used by parents to help a baby learn to fall asleep and stay asleep independently, often involving routines and specific sleep strategies.

Solid Foods

Food introduced to a baby’s diet, typically starting around 6 months, to complement breast milk or formula and provide additional nutrients for growth.

Swaddling

A technique of wrapping a baby snugly in a blanket to help them feel secure, reduce their startle reflex, and promote better sleep.

T

Teething

The process where a baby’s first set of teeth (primary teeth) begins to emerge through the gums, often causing discomfort, drooling, and irritability.

Tummy Time

Supervised playtime where babies are placed on their stomachs to help develop their neck, shoulder, and arm muscles, which are critical for motor development.