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Your 1 week old Baby’s Development

Mum holding newborn to head
 
Dr Shauna Fannin
Medically reviewed by
14th Sep 2021

This week may feel a little overwhelming, but don’t panic, take things slow – you’ve got this!

What to expect from your 1 week old baby

As your little one is in their very first week you can expect to see them attempt to lift their head a little – but make sure you’re supporting their head too.

Oh and don’t panic if your new bundle of joy looks a little wrinkled and squashed – they have been living in liquid for a good while – this will all change as the days and weeks pass.

You may also notice your baby’s legs and arms are staying in the same position, this is because of the position they were in whilst in your womb. They will soon straighten out over the next few weeks.

How your 1 week old baby’s brain is developing 

At one week old, your baby has what is known as “instinctive brain function” where they know how to breathe, feed, sleep and poo. They won’t be able to fully think properly, remember things, or understand language – this will all come! 

Your 1 week old baby and sleep...

Don’t be worried if you feel your baby is only sleeping and feeding – this is totally normal! Newborn babies sleep up to 16 or 17 hours a day. Unfortunately, it’s not all at once, and probably won’t be when you want it either! Your new baby will typically sleep for two to four hours at a time throughout the day and night, meaning your schedule will be incredibly irregular. Don’t be surprised if you’re up a lot throughout the night comforting or feeding your little one, this is really normal during the first few weeks.

Everything can seem a little daunting during the first few weeks, but try to stay calm and take things as they come. You’re doing great!

If your baby hasn’t already, they may lose their umbilical stump on their belly button over the next week or so. During this time it’s important to keep this area dry until the cord has completely fallen off.

What activities and baby games will help my 1-week-old develop?

  • Talk to your baby about what’s going on around them for example: Are you hungry? Let’s change your nappy. Do you want some milk?>
  • Make baby noises together to encourage your little one to listen and learn about turn-taking conversations<
  • Make faces and maintain lots of eye contact.
  • Give your baby some tummy time every day by placing them to lie on their front for a few short minutes. Not all babies like this at first so maybe lie with them and talk, sing or wiggle a bright toy – just a minute or two daily helps to strengthen their back and shoulder muscles.

 

Approved by healthcare team

 

This content is sponsored by MAM

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