AGE: 1 MONTH

Growth (weight, height, physical)

Are you currently breastfeeding your baby? If you answered yes, your kid may gain 0.1 to 0.2kg per week for the first several months. Formula-fed newborns, on the other hand, are likely to grow less weight. The average weight of a one-month-old newborn, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), is 4.2kg for girls and 4.5kg for boys.

However, keep in mind that babies do not develop at the same rate, so you may notice that your toddler is requesting a breast or bottle more frequently at this age (breastfeeding mothers normally know this as the breastfeeding cluster). This increased need is your baby’s way of expressing his remarkable physical growth. It may exhaust you, but don’t worry; it normally only lasts one or two days. After that, a more regular and consistent eating routine will emerge.

Health and medical information

Bring your infant for a one-month checkup at this time. This includes a head-to-toe physical examination as well as getting a second dose of the Hepatitis B vaccine. If you are providing breastfeeding, you may also ask your doctor about taking vitamin D pills during your medical appointments. A paediatrician can also check to see if you’re showing any indications of postpartum depression.

Sleep patterns

A one-month-old baby sleeps 15 to 16 hours a day on average. However, the number of hours of sleep or the sleep patterns is determined by the baby. Babies usually sleep three times a day and get eight and a half hours of sleep at night.

Every infant, like adults, has its own personality. Any concerns you have about your baby’s sleep patterns should be discussed with a paediatrician who can give you personalised guidance.

Your baby will most likely start making noises like cooing (coo), grunting (grunt), and humming (hum) to express his feelings. Some babies begin to squeal and laugh as well. Make sure you react and communicate with your infant in face to face. Your baby will love seeing you in front of him at this age.

Even if you’re busy, your kid will appreciate hearing your voice from across the room. Don’t be embarrassed to use ‘baby talk,’ as this high-pitched mode of communication can help babies learn about the structure and function of language.

In addition, newborns cry a lot since this is how they communicate with you. Crying can indicate that the infant is in good health. If your child isn’t crying, and you suspect he or she needs something, take him or her to the doctor straight away.

Cognitive development

Hearing is fully developed in a 1-month-old kid because it is established in the womb around the 35th week. Your baby may even turn towards the sounds that he or she is used to hearing. Fluid in the ear can initially affect sound clarity, and the portions of the brain that deal with sound processing are still developing. This does not normally occur till the baby is 7 months old.

The baby’s sense of smell starts to develop as well. Your infant will favour sweet fragrances at this age. If you’re nursing, you might be able to pick the best milk based on its flavour and scent.

Movement development

Your infant cannot sit, crawl, or roll on his own at this age. You may notice that they keep their heads in one direction when lying down to change diapers. If you place them on their stomachs, they may at first try to elevate their heads. However, the baby will soon be able to turn his head to one side and bend his arms (elbows outwards) and legs (bottom slightly protruding upwards) as well. Their arms and legs are also moving in a jerky and uneven manner at this time.

Your one-month-old baby still maintains the basic reflex movements (known as “primitive reflexes”) that newborns have. If you touch their cheek near their mouth, they will suck on your finger (‘rooting reflex’); if you hold them’standing’ on a hard surface, they will press their feet together in a walking pattern (‘stepping reflex’).

Nutrition

If you’re nursing, the one-month-old infant may still need to be fed every two to three hours; if you’re using formula milk, once every three to four hours. Don’t be worried about the amount of milk you produce if you’re nursing.

Also, when your baby is full, he will stop eating. It will either sleep or turn away from your breasts. Breastfeeding will become more efficient and babies will be able to breastfeed more in less time. As a result, you should expect your breastfeeding period to shorten in the coming months. If you’re using formula milk, the infant will most likely sip on a 4-ounce bottle every four hours or so.

At this age, babies should still be fed formula, breast milk, or a combination of the two. Water should usually be started when your infant is at least 6 months old, according to the doctor.

Babies can swallow air when nursing, which happens more frequently when they are breastfeeding from a bottle. They may become uneasy and cry as a result of the air. Make sure your baby burps while you’re nursing or switching him from one breast to the other. Make sure you have a tiny cloth or blanket to keep spilt milk or formula out of your clothes.

The effects of wet diapers

At this age, newborns are likely to use four to six wet diapers each day. Most newborns will poop at least once each day, but some may not poop for several days or even a week. This is typical as long as the faeces has a normal consistency, which is soft and slightly watery. If you are concerned or unsure about the quantity of diapers to change in a day, seek guidance from a baby healthcare professional.

Whether you use cloth or disposable diapers, your child may get a rash from time to time as a result of the diapers. This is especially noticeable during the summer. Here are some tips for preventing and treating diaper rash:

Change your baby’s diaper more often: Change the diaper as soon as you see it getting wet or dirty during the day.

Use a diaper rash cream: A diaper rash cream can be used as a preventative precaution, especially if your infant is prone to rashes or if you know your baby will be spending long days outside or on long travels. Please keep in mind that some cloth diapers cannot be used with diaper rash treatment, so double-check the labels before using any cream.

Provide ventilation: Allowing your infant to be free of diapers is the greatest approach to avoid and treat diaper rash. While changing clothes or after a shower, spread out a blanket and allow your infant to enjoy the fresh air.

How to help your baby grow or develop

Here are some tips you can try:

Hugging Time: Cuddle your kid as much as possible; it’s a wonderful method to strengthen your bond. According to experts, the faster and more consistently you console a crying baby in the first six months, the more demanding your baby will become as he or she grows up.

Visual stimuli: Your baby may prefer to look at objects with straight lines at this age, such as lines or signboard patterns. To promote its visual growth, use a phone or toy with bright and diverse colours and patterns.

Touch toys: Your baby will also be able to recognise the world through touch. Prepare a variety of textures, shapes, and sizes of toys.

Talk to your baby: Allow your baby to “speak” to you through his coos, gurgles, and smiles. Respond to her by using words, sounds, and facial expressions. Your infant will learn to imitate you in the future, thus this is an excellent early “dialogue” for their growth.

Helps physical development: Gently stretch your baby’s arms in front of him to form a “clap”. Continue to practise placing your baby on his stomach by moving his legs as if he were pedalling a bicycle (tummy time). All of these exercises will aid in the development of his muscles and mobility.

Bonding: Creating a secure bond and trust with your baby allows him to reach his full potential.

Signs of developmental problems (Things to take note of)

Every baby grows and developed differently. Around the age of 1 month, you are still in the process of learning about your baby and their needs. However, do consult a paediatrician or nurse if your baby: