Imeväisen

Imeväisen is a Finnish term that translates to "infant" or "baby" in English. It refers to a human child from birth up to approximately one year of age. This period is characterized by rapid physical, cognitive, and social development. Infants are entirely dependent on caregivers for their basic needs, including feeding, hygiene, and protection.

Key developmental milestones during infancy include the development of motor skills, such as holding their head up, sitting, crawling, and eventually walking. Communication skills also emerge, starting with cooing and babbling, progressing to understanding simple words and eventually speaking their first words. Socially, infants begin to recognize familiar faces, show preferences for certain individuals, and engage in early forms of interaction.

The health and well-being of an imeväinen are paramount. This stage involves regular medical check-ups, vaccinations, and attention to nutrition, typically through breastfeeding or formula feeding. The environment and care provided by parents and caregivers play a crucial role in shaping the infant's future development and overall health trajectory. The term imeväinen encompasses the entire spectrum of this formative period in human life.