They are such tiny little things, but newborns are processing all sorts of information. And while newborns do a lot of sleeping, eating and dirtying diapers, they are very engaged in their environment and begin learning from day one.
This begins a predictable pattern of learning and growing that you and your child’s pediatrician should follow closely. At each well-baby checkup, your baby’s development will be assessed to see if he or she is on track.
To help keep track of your baby’s development, below is a list of typical emotional, physical and cognitive milestones most 1-month-olds are able to accomplish. However, it is important to realize that not all babies develop at the same pace. Try not to compare your baby’s growth to that of a friend’s or even your other children. Only your physician can help you determine if your child needs additional evaluation or developmental support.
Emotional
- Calmed down when picked up
- Recognize parents’ voices and show interest and comfort in these sounds
- Look at parents’ faces when close up and prefer to look at faces over many other objects
- Smile while sleeping
- Make gurgling sounds when content
- Cry frequently, often is reflexive and not an expression of sadness, but may be used to communicate need
Physical
- Move both arms and both legs spontaneously, often jerky and uncoordinated
- Move hands to face
- Turn head toward your hand when you stroke cheek
- Grasp an object or your finger placed in hand
- Hold hands closed most of the time
- Try to lift head up when lying on stomach
Cognitive
- Startle when hearing loud sounds
- Follow a moving light back and forth with eyes
- Turn toward sounds
- Focus on objects about 1 foot from face
- Prefers black and white or strong patterns
If you have any concerns about your child’s development, speak with your pediatrician at your child’s next well-baby appointment.
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Posted In Children's, Health Information
