Growth and Development
It might not seem that a lot happens in your baby's growth and development this first month. After all, babies at this age don't pick up any big milestones, such as sitting up, rolling over, or walking. And instead of doubling or tripling their birth weight, as they will later this year, they actually lose weight that first week!
However, you can expect that your baby:
Regains his birth weight by about two weeks of age
Continues to gain about one-half to one ounce each day
Grows about one and one-half inches in length
Briefly focuses on your face or other objects that are about eight to twelve inches away from him
Follows objects moved in front of his face, from the side toward his nose
Moves his arms and legs equally well, although his movements will likely be quite jerky
Lifts his head briefly
Responds to a bell or loud noise and recognizes and turns toward some familiar sounds
Makes a variety of noises, including cries and grunts
Has a variety of reflexes, including the Moro (startle reflex), stepping (a reflexive up and down movement of a baby's legs), rooting, and grasp reflex (see Chapter 4)
Keep in mind that there is usually a range of weeks to months for the average baby to reach his milestones, so try not to compare babies of the same age. Talk to your pediatrician if you are concerned that your baby isn't meeting his milestones, though.
The highest risk period for SIDS isn't until an infant is about two to four months old, but it is never too early to begin protecting your baby. The most important thing you can do to reduce his risk of SIDS is to always put him to sleep on his back. (See Chapter 6 for other ways to protect your baby.)
