The First Smile!
Around 4–6 weeks it happens — the first real smile. Not just a reflex, but a conscious response to your face.
Development
- First social smile — your baby smiles back at you intentionally
- Follows objects with their eyes from side to side
- Briefly lifts their head during tummy time
- Sounds: Begins making "ooh" and "aah" sounds
- Mental leap (week 5): Senses become stronger, and your baby may be fussier for a few days
Growth
- Boys: Average 9.9 lbs / 21.7 in (4.5 kg / 55 cm)
- Girls: Average 9.3 lbs / 21.3 in (4.2 kg / 54 cm)
- Gaining approximately 5–7 oz (150–200 g) per week
Sleep
- 14–16 hours per day, still in short stretches
- Longer awake periods during the day — baby is becoming more alert
- May sleep 3–4 hours in a row at night
Feeding
- 7–9 nursing or feeding sessions per day — sessions become a little shorter and more efficient
- Growth spurts are common — your baby may suddenly want to feed much more often for a few days
- Vitamin D: Continue with 400 IU (10 micrograms) daily
Good to Know
- 6-week well-baby visit: Weight check, measurements, conversation, and first vaccinations per your local schedule
- Eye contact lasts longer — your baby studies your face intently
- Grasps around your finger, but this is still a reflex
- Your baby turns toward your voice and recognizes you by scent
Activity Tips
Lie down face to face with your baby on the floor. Make big facial expressions and speak calmly — your face is the most exciting thing in the world right now.
Explore on Babysential
- Sleep Tracker — Follow your baby's sleep pattern
- Milestones — Log that first smile!
- Baby — All baby guides and tools
Tip: Don't worry about routines yet. Follow your baby's cues — it all falls into place gradually.