Third Trimester 1^stTrimester     2^ndTrimester

The toes are often grabbed by the baby's hand and may even be brought up to her mouth.

Hand coordination is improving and your baby often brings her hands to her face, and especially her mouth.

At 26 weeks the average crown to heel length is 11.8 in (30 cm) and the average weight is 1.3 lb (600 g).

Your baby's body is very flexible and she can double herself up with ease. As she gets bigger, her movements become stronger.

All the nerve cells that make up the outer surface of the brain are in place. They will gradually branch out to form neural connections.

You're in the last lap and, although your belly is probably big, you've still got a lot more expanding to do. Your baby will be moving around quite vigorously and may even respond to loud noises and music. Nerve cells in her brain are beginning to connect and her coordination is improving. Keep your own brain stimulated by going to prenatal classes for fun, company, and information.

Excerpted from Pregnancy Day by Day.
Copyright © 2009 Dorling Kindersley Limited.
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