Baby Bill of Rights
TALK TO ME
Sing, hum, babble, or even read the funnies to me! I don't know
exactly what you're saying, but I need to hear you. And I do know
what you mean, even if I may not know the words. Like your voice
tones mean, "I love you." Or when you yell, I hear, "You're a pest!"
Unless you communicate with me, how can I learn?
I learn from you.
HOLD ME
Everything is so big and new to me. I don't understand where I am.
Or who I am. And I get scared. But when you hold me, I feel better.
Your warmth warms me. Your breath and heartbeat make me feel I
belong. Belong here. Belong to you.
ANSWER MY CRY
I don't cry to get you upset. Or to get you mad. I cry because I can't
tell you how I feel any other way. Maybe I'm cold... or wet... or
hungry... or scared and lonley. Answer my cries. You'll soon know what
each one means. You won't spoil me. you'll hlep me to be a better baby...
and to make you happier, too.
LOVE ME
Like me. Love me just as I am. Don't expect me to do what I can't do.
Like being toilet-trained. My muscles aren't ready yet. I know I'm messy.
But I'm growing. Overlook my baby weaknesses. You're the most impor-
tant person in my world. I can't make it without you. So get to know me.
have fun with me. And love me... just as I am.
from "Nine Months to Get Ready...You
Can Make A Difference" -
March of Dimes
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