You Should KnowBabies start to hear sounds around 16 weeks of pregnancy. By 24 weeks, research has shown babies turning their heads in response to voices and noises. The clearest voice they hear is mom’s voice, of course, because it reverberates through her body. Other voices are more muffled because they have to travel through the uterus to be heard, but they’re still heard. So go ahead and talk, sing and read to your baby bump, especially in the 3rd trimester. It’s a great way to bond with your unborn baby and stimulate their hearing at the same time. Dad can do it too! Here’s another reason to be glad you’re raising your family in Texas! Growing up in a warm climate makes people friendlier, one study says. So does spending time outside in the sun. In fact, the more time people spent outside at a young age, the happier and nicer they were throughout the rest of their lives. Getting the nursery ready for a newborn is tons of fun. Just be wise if your prep includes painting. While there are no studies documenting the effects of painting while pregnant, it is recommended to avoid exposure to oil-based paints, lead, and mercury. Lead-based paints were commonly used prior to the 1970s so do not scrape or sand old paint due to the risk of lead exposure. Also, when you paint, wear protective clothing, open windows, take fresh air breaks, and keep food and drinks away from the area. Cuddling is an effective way to fight off feelings of depression, research shows, because when you cuddle, your brain releases oxytocin - the “love hormone” associated with physical contact. Oxytocin plays a huge role during childbirth, breastfeeding and the bonding process between mom and baby. Now we know it can help tackle the blues too. And it doesn’t matter if you cuddle with your spouse, your kids, or even your pet.