Your 1-Month-Old Baby

While still in the womb, your baby used many of his senses to get to know you. Now, as he takes in everything in the "outside" world, he uses that information to communicate with you.

If you are breastfeeding, this can be a challenging month for you. We can help, with tips about latching on, plus common feeding positions and more in Breastfeeding Basics. And if your baby is fussy at feeding time (whether breastfeeding or formula feeding).

Tips for easing into this new ritual:

• Feed him frequently, in small amounts. A newborn is not very hungry the first two or three days.
• Learn to recognize "ready to feed" signals, including lip smacking, tongue movement, and eye fluttering. Crying is a late signal for hunger.
• Talk softly to your baby during feedings to help him recognize your voice and associate it with nourishment.

In his first month, your baby sees best within 12 inches of his face. He is staring a lot, and likes bold shapes and high-contrast objects, such as a black and white bull's-eye. He loves looking at faces, especially your expressions, and might imitate them right away.

He generally likes sounds that change, such as your voice or music, but might react negatively to loud sounds. His hearing is well developed, but he will not yet look for the source of the sound. When startled by a noise, he might cry, stiffen his body and legs, or thrust his arms outward and pull them back to his chest.

His early reflexes are very basic. Grasping lets him reach for rattles or your fingers, but not hold on to them. Yawning gets lots of air in his little lungs. Rooting helps him open his mouth and find the nipple for feeding. Pulling back signals pain or injury. Sneezing clears the nasal passages. Turning his head to one side helps open his airway if his breathing is blocked.

Your baby will likely sleep for two to three hours at a time now, 16 to 18 hours a day. Try to feed him on a consistent schedule to establish a sleep routine. Share unusual sleeping changes or concerns with your pediatrician.

The word on vaccinations: Get them
Regular vaccinations are still the only way to protect your baby — now and for years to come — so be sure to get your baby immunized to help keep him healthy.