Milestones: Month 1

Happy 1 month to your baby and happy 1 month of being a mommy! Hasn't this month flown by?? Your baby will be doing a lot more than just eating, pooping, and sleeping this month! Here are the major milestones for your 1 month old baby.

1) Mobiles and high contrast patterns should start to catch your baby's attention more. You can help with this milestone by having a mobile or a play gym/mat like this for them to play on. They can look at hanging toys, kick toys,swipe at toys, etc. They helps them listen and watch things. They won't begin grabbing yet, but you can pass things in front of their eyes to help them develop following objects.

2) Your baby will start to discover their extremities. They should discover their hands and feet. You can help with this milestone by playing with their hands and feet and showing them to your baby. However, make sure you keep these extremities warm when you are not playing because they can get cold easily.

3) Your baby should start to make "baby talk" or noises. They will likely coo, maybe laugh, grunt, gurgle, etc. When they do make these noises, make them back at them and "baby talk".

4)  Your baby should raise their head and chest when lying on their stomach (about week 5). You can help them accomplish this milestone by doing tummy time with them. Tummy time can be just a few minutes at a time.

5) Your baby should start sleeping for lengthier times now. About 5/6 weeks of age, you can let them sleep for 4-6 hour stretches. AMEN!! Get some sleep sister!

6) Your baby should be staying awake a little longer during the day now. During this time, play with them and that includes music. Play lullabies, play your music, sing to them, whatever you like. They will likely practice moving their arms and legs during this and practice "baby talk". If they seem agitated at all, take a break from music. They do not need it all of the time.

7) Your baby should start showing you more facial expressions! They will likely move their eyebrows, smile, purse their lips, etc. They should also start smiling at the sound of your voice. Talk about melt your heart!

8) Your baby should have their hands almost all the way open by now. Your baby cannot quite reach out for object just yet. However, they may bat at objects. They should also be able to hold an object if you place it in their hands.

9) If your baby is just quite and alert, its okay. They are learning and exploring a new world! Their brain will grow about 5 centimeters in the first 3 months of life. Use these opportunities to talk to your baby and let them explore new things. Use other opportunities like bath time, tummy time, etc. to let them look around and take it all in.

10) By about week 7, your baby should be able to track things with their eyes. Pass objects in front of your baby's eyes, and they should be able to track it somewhat. However, it won't be smooth yet.


Remember, every baby is different. They may be ahead of a milestone or a little behind and that is okay. These are general milestones put out there. If you are concerned, consult your pediatrician and they can assess your baby to see if it is an issue or not.

Thanks for reading and until next time!