Baby's Development At One Month
As small and fragile as your baby may seem, he is already learning to do things for himself and is taking in everything around him. Although you might not notice it your baby has already come a long way since birth.
Baby`s sight: Your baby is able to focus on objects up to 15 inches away. He prefers to look at the human face, focusing on the eyes or mouth. Bold shapes and bold black-and-white patterns attract his attention. He can turn his head from side to side to follow movement.
Tip: Hold up bright coloured blocks or other colourful objects for your baby to focus on.
Baby`s hearing: Your baby already recognizes your voice and will respond with his eyes, opening his move or fidget when you speak to him.
Tip: Talk to your baby when changing, bathing, feeding him. Read to him, sing him songs. Your words are his first tools of communication. The more you talk to your baby the more he is able to learn. Baby`s also respond well to music and will often help him to settle.
Body movement: When your baby is held upright with his feet touching a firm surface, he will make little stepping movements forward. If your baby is lied on his back he will his head slightly of the floor and hold it for a few seconds.
Baby`s natural reflexes:
Startle reflex: When baby's position is quickly changed or he hears a sudden loud noise, he extends both arms with open hands, then brings his arms to his chest with an embracing movement. He may also cry out at the time.
Grasp: His little hand will grip your finger when you stroke his palm.
Rooting: When you rub the corner of your baby's mouth, he'll immediately turn toward your finger. This rooting instinct is what helps him to latch onto your nipple for feeding.
Sucking: Your baby is ready and willing to suck for feeding; sucking also comforts him.
Walking: If you support your baby upright in a standing position, you'll see him naturally try to step out.
Adjusts body posture to cuddle into person holding him.
Your baby will sleep up to 15+ hours per day for the first few weeks, usually short naps. Your baby will probably wake 3 or more times during the night until he settles into a pattern (usually at 3 months).
Your baby will want feeding every 2 to 3 hours but may sleep for up to 4 hours in between feeds at night. There will be no regular pattern of sleeping or eating in the first few weeks/months so you should take this time to get as much rest as you can and remember to let others around you help.
Check out these other articles in the Parenting category:
Baby Shower for Mom and the Ladies
A Surprise Baby Shower Can Be the Perfect Way to Celebrate
Third Trimester
Keeping Your Children Safe
Baby Shower Games to Make Your Baby Shower Exciting
Take Note!