1-week-old baby: Development, milestones and growth

Bringing home your newborn is a mix of joy, exhaustion, and a fair bit of confusion.

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As you navigate the first week, you’ll be amazed by how much your baby changes day by day.

This guide is here to help you understand your baby’s development, sleep patterns, health needs, feeding routines, and more. We aim to provide practical, reassuring advice so you can feel a little more confident in these early days. Let’s dive into what you can expect during this special time.

Sleep and development

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In the first week of life, your baby’s sleep patterns may be quite different from what you expect.

Newborns typically sleep 16 to 18 hours daily, but it’s spread out in short bursts rather than long stretches. They might sleep for 2 to 4 hours at a time, waking up frequently for feedings, nappy changes, or simply because they need a cuddle.

This fragmented sleep can be exhausting for parents, but it’s completely normal. Your 1-week-old baby doesn’t yet have a developed circadian rhythm – the internal body clock that helps most babies regulate sleep and wake cycles. Instead, their sleep is governed by their need for food and comfort.

Here are a few things to keep in mind about your baby’s sleep in the first week:

• Frequent waking: Newborn babies will wake up every few hours, primarily to feed. This is essential for their growth and development.
• Day and night confusion: It’s common for a newborn baby to mix up day and night. Keeping lights dim and interactions quiet during night-time feeds can help them start to differentiate between the two and make sure the baby sleeps.
• Safe sleep environment: Always place your baby on their back to sleep, on a firm mattress without any loose bedding, pillows, or stuffed animals in baby’s crib. This reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

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Emerging skills and milestones

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Even in the first week, your baby is already starting to develop essential skills and reach small milestones. While these changes might be subtle, they are crucial for your baby’s development.

• Reflexes: Newborns are born with several reflexes, such as the rooting reflex (turning their head when their cheek is stroked) and the Moro reflex (startle response). These reflexes are signs of a healthy nervous system.
• Sensory development: Your baby’s senses are gradually waking up. They can see but their vision is blurry, and they are most interested in faces, especially yours. They can hear and will often startle at loud noises. They can also taste and smell, and they prefer sweet tastes and the smell of their mother.
• Motor skills: While your baby’s movements are mostly reflexive, they will show more controlled movements as they grow. In the first week, you might notice them trying to lift their head briefly during tummy time.

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Health and safety of a 1-week-old baby

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Common health concerns

In the first week, your newborn’s health is a top priority. It’s totally normal to feel anxious about every sneeze, hiccup, or rash, but understanding common health concerns can help ease your worries. Here are a few things to keep an eye on.

• Jaundice: Many newborns develop jaundice, which causes a yellowish tint to their skin and eyes. This happens when there’s a build-up of bilirubin, a substance created by the breakdown of red blood cells. Mild jaundice often resolves on its own, but if it’s severe, your baby may need phototherapy.
• Weight loss: It’s normal for newborns to lose a bit of weight after birth, typically about 5-10% of their birth weight. They should regain this weight by the time they’re two weeks old. Consult your healthcare provider if you’re concerned about your baby’s weight.
• Newborn rash: Many newborns develop harmless rashes, like erythema toxicum, which looks like red spots with a yellow or white centre. These usually disappear on their own within a few weeks.
• Feeding issues: Some breastfed infants may have trouble latching or feeding in the first few days. Persistent feeding difficulties should be addressed with your midwife, lactation consultant, or paediatrician.

Feeding your newborn

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Breastfed babies: What to expect

Feeding your newborn can be both a bonding experience and a challenging task, especially in the first week.

• Frequent feeding: Newborns need to feed every 2 to 3 hours, which means 8 to 12 times in 24 hours. This frequent feeding helps establish your breast milk supply and ensures your baby gets enough nourishment.
• Cluster feeding: It’s normal for breastfed babies to have periods of cluster feeding, where they want to nurse more frequently over a few hours. This often happens in the evenings and can be exhausting, but it’s a sign that your baby is growing and stimulating your milk production.
• Proper latch: Ensure your baby has a good latch for effective feeding and preventing nipple pain. Your baby’s mouth should cover a large part of the areola, not just the nipple, and you should feel a tugging sensation rather than pain.
• Signs of hunger: Look for early hunger cues like rooting, sucking on hands, or smacking lips. Crying is a late hunger sign, so try to feed your baby before they get too fussy.
• Wet and dirty nappies: A good indicator that your baby is getting enough milk is the number of wet and dirty nappies. Expect at least 6 to 8 wet nappies and 3 to 4 stools per day by the end of the first week.
• Weight gain: Your baby should start gaining weight after the initial post-birth weight loss, typically regaining their birth weight by two weeks of age.

Don’t hesitate reaching out to a lactation consultant, nurse, or your child’s doctor if you have concerns about breastfeeding or your baby’s feeding patterns.

Health and hygiene

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Umbilical cord care and hygiene

Taking care of your baby’s umbilical cord stump is crucial as soon as they come out of the birth canal or via c-section. Here’s how to ensure it heals properly:

• Keep it dry: The umbilical cord stump needs to dry out and fall off naturally, which usually happens within 1 to 3 weeks. Avoid submerging it in water. Opt for sponge baths instead of tub baths until the stump falls off.
• Clean gently: If the stump gets dirty, clean it with a cotton swab dipped in plain water and gently pat it dry. Always wash your hands before and after handling the cord area.
• Dress lightly: Avoid covering the stump with nappies or tight clothing. Fold the front of the nappy down to allow air circulation and prevent irritation.
• Monitor for infection: Watch for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, foul-smelling discharge, or if the area feels warm to the touch. If you notice any of these signs, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Bathing and skincare

Bathing your newborn can be a delightful bonding experience, but it’s important to follow some basic guidelines to keep your baby safe and comfortable:

• Bathing frequency: Newborns don’t need daily baths. Two to three times a week is sufficient in the first weeks. On non-bath days, you can clean your baby’s face, neck, and nappy area with a damp cloth.
• Water temperature: Use lukewarm water (around 37°C). Always check the water temperature with your wrist or elbow before placing your baby in the bath.
• Avoid products: It’s recommended that you don’t use any kind of products in the bath water for the first few weeks. 
• Soft towels: After the bath, gently pat your baby dry with a soft towel, paying special attention to skin folds and the nappy area to prevent moisture from causing rashes.
• Moisturising: If your baby’s skin appears dry, apply a hypoallergenic baby lotion or moisturiser. Avoid using adult skin products, as they may contain harsh ingredients for your newborn’s skin.

Emotional and social development

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Bonding with your baby

Bonding with your newborn is important for their emotional and social development. These early connections lay the foundation for your baby’s sense of security and well-being.

• Skin-to-skin contact: Holding your baby close with skin-to-skin contact helps with bonding and regulates their body temperature, heart rate, and breathing. This can be particularly soothing after birth and during feeding times (and actually boosts hormones needed for milk production!)
• Eye contact: Most babies can see objects and faces best at about 20-30 cm away. When you hold your baby and look into their eyes, you foster a connection that helps them feel secure and loved.
• Gentle touch and massage: Gentle strokes and baby massage can calm your baby and strengthen your bond. It can also help with digestion and sleep.
• Responsive caregiving: Promptly responding to your baby’s cues helps them feel understood and secure. Over time, this builds trust and emotional security.

Parent-infant interaction

The interactions you have with your baby in the first week, though simple, are incredibly important for the child’s health and emotional development.

• Talking and singing: Your baby loves hearing your voice. Talking, singing, and reading to your newborn helps with language development and provides comfort.
• Facial expressions: Babies are naturally drawn to faces. Smiling and making different facial expressions help your baby’s progress to learn and imitate these social cues over time.
• Routine and consistency: Routine, even in the first week, provides your baby with predictability and security. Simple routines around feeding, napping, and bedtime can help your baby feel more settled.

Parenting tips and advice for the first week

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Managing visitors and prioritising rest

The first week with your newborn is a delicate time of adjustment. While family and friends are eager to meet your new arrival, balance their excitement with your need for rest and bonding.

• Set boundaries: Don’t hesitate to set boundaries with visitors. It’s okay to limit the number of visitors and the length of visits. Explain that you need time to rest and bond with your baby.
• Create a schedule: If you’re comfortable with visitors, try to schedule them for times that work for you. Avoid overwhelming yourself by spacing out visits.
• Accept help: If visitors offer help, take them up on it. Whether it’s bringing a meal, helping with chores, or watching the baby while you nap, practical support can be invaluable.
• Rest when you can: Sleep deprivation is one of the biggest challenges for many parents. Nap when your baby naps, and don’t worry about household chores. Your rest is crucial.

Postpartum tips

Caring for a newborn is demanding, and taking care of yourself is just as important. Here are some tips to help you navigate the first week:

• Stay hydrated and nourished: Eating regular, nutritious meals and staying hydrated will help you maintain your energy levels, especially when breastfeeding.
• Emotional support: Feeling a range of emotions after childbirth is normal. Talk to your partner, family, or friends. If you experience intense feelings of sadness or anxiety, seek support from a healthcare professional.
• Gentle exercise: Exercise is only recommended six weeks after vaginal birth and eight weeks after Caesar. Gentle walking, however, is encouraged to feel better physically and mentally.
• Baby blues: Many new mothers experience “baby blues” – feelings of sadness, irritability, or overwhelm. These usually pass within a couple of weeks, however if they persist you should discuss how you’re feeling with your GP or child health nurse as well as supportive family members.
• Enjoy the moments: Amidst the exhaustion and challenges, try to take a moment to enjoy your baby. These early days are fleeting, and cherishing the small moments makes all the difference.

Weekly activity for your 1-week-old baby

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At one week old, your baby is still adjusting to life outside the womb, so activities should be gentle and simple. Here’s a recommended activity that promotes bonding and supports your baby’s development.

Tummy time

Tummy time is crucial for your baby’s physical development, helping to strengthen the neck muscles and muscles down the spine, as well as stabilising the glutes.

How to do tummy time

• Start slow: Begin with short sessions, about 1 to 2 minutes, a few times daily. Gradually increase the duration as your baby becomes more comfortable.
• Comfortable surface: Lay your baby on a clean, soft blanket on the floor. You can use a firm, flat surface, like a play mat.
• Supervision: Always stay with your baby during tummy time. Never leave them unattended.
• Engage and entertain: Get down on the floor with your baby and talk, sing, or use toys to keep them engaged. Your face is the best entertainment for your newborn.
• Chest-to-chest: If your baby isn’t a fan of tummy time on the floor, you can start with them lying on your chest while you recline. This position still helps them work on their muscle strength.

Frequently asked questions

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How much should a 1-week-old baby sleep?

Newborns typically sleep between 16 to 18 hours a day, but their sleep is fragmented into short periods of 2 to 4 hours.

How often should I feed my 1-week-old baby?

You should feed your newborn every 2 to 3 hours, which amounts to about 8 to 12 feedings in 24 hours. Breastfed babies might cluster feed, especially in the evenings, which is normal and helps stimulate milk production.

What are the signs of jaundice in a newborn?

Signs of jaundice include a yellowish tint to the skin and eyes. This condition is common in newborns and usually appears within the first few days of the baby’s life. If the yellowing spreads or becomes more intense, or your baby seems unwell or difficult to wake, contact your healthcare provider.

How do I care for my baby’s umbilical cord stump?

Keep the umbilical cord stump clean and dry. Avoid submerging it in water; give sponge baths in warm water instead. Fold the front of the nappy down to allow air circulation. Watch for signs of infection like redness, swelling, or foul odour, and consult your healthcare provider if you notice any of these signs.

What should I expect during the first week with a newborn?

Expect a lot of feeding, nappy changes, and sleep, in short and irregular periods. Your baby will rely on you for comfort and care as they adjust to their new environment and the world outside the womb. It’s also a time for bonding and getting to know your baby’s cues and needs.

How can I ensure my baby is getting enough breast milk?

Look for signs that your baby is feeding well; they should latch properly, you should hear swallowing sounds during feeding, and they should seem satisfied after feeds. Adequate wet and dirty nappies (at least 6 to 8 wet nappies and 3 to 4 stools per day) and steady weight gain indicate that your baby is getting enough milk.

What are normal developmental milestones for a 1-week-old baby?

In the first week, your baby will show several reflexes like rooting and the Moro reflex. They will start recognising your voice and face, and their sensory development will progress. You might also notice brief attempts to lift their head during tummy time.

Sources

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Safe to sleep, Tummy Time for a Healthy Baby, August 2018
CDC Nutrition, How Much and How Often to Breastfeed, April 2022
Stanford Medicine Children’s Health, Newborn Sleep Patterns, n.d
Parents, Your 1-Week-Old Baby’s Milestones and Development, February 2024