Infant in 2020: COVID isolation · 436

Mild drooling and gum irritation yes; high fever usually has another cause and needs medical review. When can infants sleep through the night? Some sleep longer stretches by 6–9 months; many still wake for feeds or comfort — biologically normal. Daily supervised tummy time builds neck and shoulder strength for crawling and reduces flat head spots.

Often peaks 8–10 months as attachment to primary caregivers solidifies — not shyness to "fix". AAP discourages infant walkers due to fall and stair injury risk; stationary activity centres are safer. A few words or consistent gestures are typical; range is wide and bilingual infants may later on both languages.

Infanthood became a distinct developmental stage as child psychology separated from generic "childhood" in the twentieth century. From behaviourism's scheduled feeding to attachment parenting, advice oscillated between clock and cue. Modern infant care integrates developmental milestones as guides — not deadlines — with safety regulation on sleep and nutrition.