hildren. It should be remembered that the following figures
represent averages only, and that healthy children may vary from them
considerably without giving cause for alarm.

AVERAGE SIZE.--The average weight of a baby at birth is from 7 to 7-1/2
lbs. and the average length is about 20 inches, but it is not unusual
for a child to weigh anywhere from 5 to 10 pounds at birth and to
measure from 16 to 22 inches in length. During the first week of life a
baby loses slightly in weight. After the first week a healthy baby
should gain from 4 to 8 ounces a week until he is six months old; after
that time the weekly gain is less. The weight at birth will usually
double during the first five months, and treble during the first year.
Consequently, a baby weighing 7 pounds at birth may be expected to weigh
14 pounds when five months old, and 21 pounds when a year old. Weight is
one of the most important indications of a baby's condition. He should
be weighed every week during the first 6 months, once in two weeks
during the second 6 months, and once a month throughout the 2nd year.

MUSCULAR DEVELOPMENT.--A baby at birth is helpless, and during the first
few months he has little muscular control. During the third month he
ordinarily begins to lift his head, and he can usually hold it up
without support by the time he is 3 months old; when 7 to 8 months old
he sits erect and begins to play with toys. From this time a baby makes
rapid progress; he attempts to stand on his feet, begins to creep, and
by the time he is 14 months old he is usually able to stand alone, or
even to walk a few steps. He is usually running about without difficulty
when fifteen or sixteen months old.

Babies should never be urged to walk or to bear their weight on their
feet. If healthy they are generally eager to go about unaided, and like
to investigate their surroundings without assistance. If walking is
unusually delayed, a physician should be consulted.

DEVELOPMENT OF SPECIAL SENSES.--A new-born baby is unable to
distinguish objects, but the eyes are sensitive to light and need
careful protection. Hearing, although undeveloped at birth, soon becomes
acute; consequently the child should stay in a quiet room. When six or
eight weeks old he notices objects, and at three months old he welcomes
his mother when he is hungry. A month or two later he begins to
distinguish between familiar and unfamiliar faces, and to show approval
or disapproval.

DEVELOPM