3. Fresh air and sunshine, Nature’s great disinfectants and vitalizers
4. Gradual, moderate changes in temperatures, clothing, food, régime
5. Quiet, because the brain and nervous system are yet incomplete in their development, and are very sensitive; the maximum of sleep, with little stimulation while awake. The brain grows as much during the first year as during all the rest of life.
6. Gentleness in handling, to prevent any curvature or misshaping of the soft bones, or shocks to the nerves
7. Moderate warmth, which avoids either chilling or coddling
8. Freedom of movement, for only thus can body and mind normally develop
9. Training in self-control, which can begin the first day and needs daily attention
10. Mothering, cuddling, fondling, regularly every day, before feeding, at bath or dressing times, an hour previous to bedtime
11. Holding and Lifting. The whole length of the spine and the weight of the head must be well supported until the baby is strong enough, at six or seven months of age, to support these himself. In lifting a young baby, the left hand and arm are slipped under the head, neck, and upper back, the right hand under the lower back. He may be carried in one arm by supporting the head in the crook of the elbow and supporting the entire length of the back with the forearm, wrist, and hand. If held in an upright position at this early age, the wobbly head should always be supported. Never lift a baby or little child by his arms.
Daily Régime. The following schedule is in general typical for the first year. It will vary somewhat with the age of the baby, the climate and season. In varying from this schedule, note that the following factors are important and to be observed strictly: