Spedbarn

Spedbarn is a term used in Scandinavian languages to denote an infant, typically a child from birth to about one year of age. The word is commonly found in medical, childcare, and parental contexts. It covers the earliest stage of human development when rapid physical growth, brain development, and the acquisition of basic motor skills occur.

In the first year, infants usually gain weight rapidly and grow in length. Many babies double or triple their birth weight by their first birthday. Motor development follows a general sequence but with individual variation: head control improves in the first few months; many infants roll over by 4–6 months; sit with support by around 6–8 months and may sit alone by 7–9 months; crawling or scooting often appears between 6–12 months; and some begin to stand or take steps with assistance toward the end of the first year.

The primary source of nutrition is breast milk or infant formula. Exclusive breastfeeding is commonly recommended for about the first six months, after which complementary foods are introduced as development and local guidelines allow. By the end of the first year, many infants eat a variety of soft family foods alongside milk feeds.

Infants require regular pediatric checkups, immunizations, and monitoring of growth and development. Safe sleep practices, such as placing the infant on their back on a firm surface without loose bedding, reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Care also involves responsive feeding, hygiene, comfort, and safeguarding from injuries.