Baby Milestones

Your month-by-month companion

Month 1

Feeding patterns begin to emerge, and you may see the first real smiles. Colic often peaks this month.

Quick Reference

Sleep

15-17 hours

Feeding

3-4 oz (90-120 ml) per feeding, 24-32 oz (710-950 ml)/day

Naps

Many short naps

Wake Window

45-90 minutes

Talk to your doctor if baby...

•Does not respond to loud sounds
•Does not watch things as they move
•Does not seem happy to see you when you approach
•Seems very floppy or very stiff
•Feeding difficulties or poor weight gain

Is my baby eating enough?

At 1 month, formula-fed babies typically eat 3-4 oz (90-120 ml) every 3-4 hours (24-32 oz/710-950 ml per day); breastfed babies nurse 8-12 times per 24 hours. Your baby is eating enough if they have 6+ wet diapers daily and steady weight gain. Talk to your doctor if fewer wet diapers or poor weight gain.

Why does my baby spit up so much?

Spitting up after feeds is extremely common and usually not a problem - their digestive system is still maturing. Talk to your doctor if baby seems in pain, refuses feeds, isn't gaining weight, or spits up forcefully across the room.

Can I spoil my baby by holding them too much?

You cannot spoil a baby under 6 months - responding to their needs builds security and trust. Hold your baby as much as you want. Babies need close contact for healthy development.

When should I start tummy time?

Start tummy time from day one, beginning with 1-2 minutes 2-3 times per day on your chest. Gradually work up to 15-20 minutes total by 3 months. It's okay if baby fusses - that means they're working hard.

My baby has goopy eyes - is this serious?

Blocked tear ducts cause yellow crust or goopy discharge in about 1 in 20 babies and usually clear up by 12 months. Gently massage and wipe with warm water. Call your doctor if the white part of the eye is red or if there's thick green discharge.

How do I know if I have postpartum depression?

Baby blues (crying, mood swings) in the first 2 weeks are normal. PPD lasts longer than 2 weeks and includes persistent sadness, difficulty bonding, scary thoughts, or trouble functioning. Call your doctor immediately if you have scary thoughts or can't care for yourself or baby.

When will my baby smile at me?

Social smiles emerge around 6-8 weeks when baby smiles in response to you. Earlier smiles are reflexive (usually during sleep). Talk to your doctor if no social smiles by 3 months.

ExpectedWhat most babies do
  • •Hold head up briefly when on tummy
  • •Make smoother movements (less jerky)
  • •Watch you as you move
  • •Calm down when spoken to or picked up
  • •Look at your face
  • •React to loud sounds
VariesWhat some babies do
  • •Open hands briefly
  • •Begin tracking objects with eyes
  • •Show first social smile (usually 4-8 weeks)
  • •Make cooing sounds other than crying

What's Next

Month 2 · Month 2 brings more interactive smiling and cooing. Baby is becoming more of a social partner.