Your Baby's 1st Month

Baby Reflexes

Your baby is born with survival reflexes that have evolved over tome. It's likely you have already seen a baby turn his head, searching or rooting for breast or bottle. Or if he is startled, he will quickly extend his arms to grab hold of you. Another reflex is a baby's strong grip. Put your finger in his palm and feel him grab on; he is not going to let go.

Diapers, Diapers, and More Diapers

Think of diaper changing as a bonding time when your baby watches you closely, listens to you talk or sing, and feels your gentle touch. From her perspective, this is an intimate way for Mommy or Daddy to meet an important need and make her feel warm and comfy again.

Cloth or disposable diapers: Which are right for your family? Read how some parents are making their own decisions about diapers, then take our diaper quiz to see for yourself.

Not-So-Little Lungs

No matter how much you prepare, no new parent is ready for the overwhelming feelings of hearing her new baby cry ... and cry ... and cry. Most infants spend up to 7 percent of their day crying—an involuntary response to some sort of discomfort.

Early on, parents develop a mental checklist:

• When did baby last eat?
• Is it time to check the diaper?
• Does baby need to burp?
• Is the baby sleepy?
• Is there too much stimulation in the environment?

Remember, crying is your baby's primary form of communication, and responding promptly to his cry is a way of communicating your love and support. (Should you let Baby cry it out? See what the experts have to say, here.)

More Development Help

As you're considering your child's development, keep in mind that all babies are unique. Whether your baby reaches milestones early or late, she has her own developmental path to follow. The dividing lines between these months are very fuzzy. If you have any concerns or questions about your baby's development, please check with her healthcare provider

• Use our Development Tracker to check off Baby's 0-3 month milestones.
• Stay organized with our new-parent To-Do List!
• What's the most common medical concern for babies this age? Check it out!

Now...Let's Take a Closer Look at Each Week

• Week 1: Knowing You from Others
• Week 2: Copying Mouth Movements
• Week 3: A Discerning Sense of Touch
• Week 4: Identifying Smells and Sounds

Remember what was happening last month or learn what to expect in Baby's 2nd month.