Congratulations on the birth of your baby and welcome to the new adventure of being a parent!
After your baby is born, it seems like he just eats, sleeps, cries and fills his diaper. Don’t worry, in about a month you’ll start feeling small differences. As time elapses, you will notice that your baby is more alert, listens to your voice when you talk and stares at you curiously. His coordination will improve and he will bring his hands close to his mouth and eyes while his hands are usually clenched to a fist. Your baby will be able to move his head from side to side when lying on his tummy.
It is important to put your baby on his tummy when he is awake and under your supervision, even if it is only for a few minutes every time. This will help your baby’s motor development in the future. Remember that although he grows up every day that passes by, he is still too young to hold his head on his own and needs your support when you hold him.
Hearing - After about a month, your baby’s hearing is fully developed, and he will start recognizing familiar sounds. He might react to the sound of familiar voices, mostly yours, his parents.
Sight - Your baby can focus on objects at a distance of 20-30 cm and will usually prefer objects that are black and white or other contrasting colors. He will generally be more interested in watching your faces than staring at various objects.
Smell - Naturally, your baby prefers sweet smells over sour smells. He also recognizes the smell of his mother’s milk, if you have decided to breastfeed.
It is important to remember that although your baby is young, it is never too early to pay attention and stay alert. If you notice one of the following warning signs, it is recommended that you consult your pediatrician:
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If your baby is unable to suck while eating from a bottle or breastfeeding and eating very slowly.
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Doesn’t blink as a response to bright light.
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At the age of six weeks, is unable to focus on close objects and follow their movement from side to side.
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Doesn’t react to loud sounds.
Remember that every baby is unique and develops at his own pace. Pay attention to the aforementioned warning signs, but enjoy learning and discovering new worlds with your baby as he develops.
Last updated: May 2017
Authors - Tamar Sudry BA MED, Dr. Yair Sadaka MD Ph.D., pediatrician, פediatric neurologist
Sources:
The Israeli ministry of health