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

The first two weeks with your newborn can feel like a beautiful blur of sleepless nights, endless nappy changes, and the pure joy of getting to know your baby.

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As you settle into this new rhythm of your baby’s life, you might start noticing subtle changes and developments in your little one.

Sleep and development

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Sleep is not just about rest; it’s also when significant growth and brain development happen.

At two weeks old, your baby is likely still sleeping a lot—around 16 to 18 hours a day. This sleep is broken into short stretches of about 2-4 hours, day and night. It’s normal for newborns to have their days and nights mixed up, leading to some late-night wakefulness. While this can be challenging (hello sleep deprivation), it’s a natural part of their adjustment to the outside world.

During sleep, your baby’s brain is busy processing all the new experiences and stimuli they encounter while awake.

This stage supports cognitive development and physical growth. You’ll notice different sleep cycles, including active sleep (similar to REM sleep in adults) where they might twitch or move, and quiet sleep, where they are more still and relaxed.

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Emerging skills and milestones

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Even in these early days, your baby is starting to develop new skills and reach milestones. At two weeks old, these might include:

• Increased alertness: You may notice your baby spending more time awake and alert, particularly during feeding times.
• Focus and tracking: Your baby might briefly focus on your face or a bright object and even try to follow it with their eyes.
• Improved reflexes: Reflexes such as rooting, sucking, and the Moro (startle) reflex are becoming more pronounced and coordinated.
• Head movement: While your baby’s head is still very wobbly, they might start to turn their head from side to side, especially when lying on their tummy.

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Health and safety of a 2-week-old baby

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In the early weeks, it’s natural to have concerns about your baby’s health. While every baby is different, some common health issues might arise.

• Jaundice: Many newborns develop jaundice, which causes a yellowing of the skin and eyes. This is usually harmless and resolves on its own, but it’s important to monitor it. If jaundice appears severe or spreads to other parts of the body, contact your GP.
• Colic: Colic can be challenging, with babies often crying for extended periods without an apparent reason. It’s believed to be related to digestive issues or gas. While colic typically resolves by 3-4 months, soothing techniques and changes in feeding practices can help manage it.
• Nappy rash: Sensitive skin and frequent wet nappies can lead to nappy rash. Keeping your baby’s bottom clean and dry, using a barrier cream, and allowing some nappy-free time can prevent and treat rashes.
• Breastfeeding challenges: Some mothers face issues with breastfeeding, such as latching problems, sore nipples, or concerns about milk supply. Consulting a lactation specialist or your healthcare provider can offer solutions and support.
• Umbilical cord care: Baby’s umbilical cord stump usually falls off within 1-2 weeks. Keep the area clean and dry, and avoid covering it with the nappy. Seek medical advice if you notice any signs of infection, like redness, swelling, or discharge.
• Newborn screening tests: Your baby will undergo several screening tests shortly after birth to check for various conditions. These tests are important for early detection and treatment. If you have questions or concerns about these tests, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider.
• Respiratory health: Newborns can have irregular breathing patterns, which is generally normal. However, if your baby has difficulty breathing, flaring nostrils, grunting, or blue-tinged skin, immediately seek medical attention.

Care and feeding

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At two weeks old, your baby’s stomach is still small, so they need frequent feedings. Here’s what you can expect in terms of your baby’s feeding patterns and amounts:

• Breastfeeding: If you’re breastfeeding, your 2-week-old baby will likely feed about 8-12 times in 24 hours. Each feeding session can last anywhere from 10 to 45 minutes. It’s normal for some feedings to be shorter or longer than others. Remember, frequent feeding helps establish your milk supply, nourishes your baby, and prevents your breasts from becoming engorged.
• Formula feeding: For those using formula, your baby will typically consume around 60-90 ml per feeding, every 3-4 hours. It’s important to follow the instructions on the formula packaging to ensure proper mixing and to avoid overfeeding or underfeeding.
• Combination feeding: If you’re combination feeding, you might find that your baby’s schedule and amounts can vary. Try to maintain a balance that works for both you and your newborn baby, ensuring they’re getting enough from both sources.
• Feeding cues: Look for hunger cues such as rooting, sucking on their fists, or making sucking noises. Crying is usually a late hunger cue, so feed your baby before they become too upset.
• Burping: Whether breastfeeding or formula feeding, burping your baby after each feeding can help release any swallowed air, reducing discomfort and preventing spit-up. Hold your baby upright against your chest and gently pat their back until they burp.
• Cluster feeding: During growth spurts, which can happen around this time, most babies may want to feed more frequently in clusters. This is normal and helps boost milk supply if you’re breastfeeding.
• Hydration and output: Keep an eye on your baby’s nappy output to ensure they put on the correct amounts according to their birth weight. A well-fed baby typically has 6-8 wet nappies and several bowel movements daily. Changes in urine colour or bowel movement frequency can indicate if they’re getting enough to eat.

Reflex and motor skills

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At two weeks old, most babies show the earliest signs of development. These milestones might seem small, but they are the building blocks for more complex skills that will develop over time.

Newborn reflexes are involuntary movements or actions that are a normal part of infant development in the first few weeks. At two weeks old, these reflexes and emerging motor skills are particularly notable:

• Rooting reflex: When you stroke your baby’s cheek, they will turn their head and open their mouth, ready to suck. This reflex helps them find the sustenance – whether they are breastfed babies or bottle-fed.
• Sucking reflex: This reflex is crucial for feeding. When the roof of your baby’s mouth is touched, they will start to suck.
• Moro reflex (startle reflex): If your baby is startled by a loud sound or sudden movement, they will throw their arms out, open their hands, and quickly pull their arms back in. This reflex is a sign of their developing nervous system.
• Grasp reflex: Place your finger in your baby’s palm, and they will grasp it tightly. This reflex helps build hand strength and coordination.
• Stepping reflex: When you hold your baby upright with their feet touching a solid surface, they may make stepping motions. For many babies, this reflex disappears after a few months and is replaced by voluntary walking movements.
• Head control: At two weeks, your baby’s neck muscles are still weak, but you might notice them trying to lift their head briefly when lying on their tummy. Tummy time is essential for developing these muscles, so let your baby spend short periods on their stomach while supervised.
• Visual and auditory skills: Your baby’s eyes and vision are still developing. They can focus on objects 20-30 cm away, which is roughly the distance to your face when you’re holding them. They may start to track moving objects with their eyes. Loud noises might cause them to startle or turn their head toward the sound, showing the development of their auditory skills.

Emotional and social development

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At two weeks old, your baby also hints at the first signs of emotional and social development. While still very young, these early interactions lay the foundation for future bonding and communication.

Responding to cues and stimuli

• Facial expressions: Your baby might not smile yet, but they are starting to recognise and respond to your facial expressions. You may notice them staring intently at your face, especially during feeding times. This eye contact is an early form of social interaction and bonding.
• Soothing with voice and touch: Your baby is learning to find comfort in your voice and touch. Talking to your baby soothingly, singing lullabies, and holding them close can help calm them when they’re fussy. They are beginning to associate your voice and touch with safety and comfort.
• Crying as communication: At this stage, crying is your baby’s primary way of communicating. Yep, babies cry! They might cry when they’re hungry, tired, uncomfortable, or need a nappy change. Over time, you’ll start to differentiate between the different types of cries and respond accordingly. This responsiveness helps build trust and emotional security.
• Responding to sounds: Your baby is becoming more aware of the sounds around them. They might startle at loud noises or turn their head toward familiar sounds, like your voice. Talking and reading to your baby, even at this young age, can promote language development and auditory skills.
• Comfort objects: While it’s a bit early for a true attachment to comfort objects, some babies find pacifiers or soft toys soothing. If you use a dummy, make sure it’s cleaned regularly and used safely.
• Routine and familiarity: Establishing a simple routine can provide a sense of security for your baby. Predictable patterns for feeding, changing, and sleeping help your baby feel safe and understood.
• Bonding through skin-to-skin contact: Holding your baby close, especially skin-to-skin, is incredibly soothing for them. This close contact helps regulate their heartbeat and breathing, promoting emotional and physical health.
• Mimicking movements: Your baby might mimic simple facial movements, like sticking out their tongue. This early imitation signals their developing social skills and interest in connecting with you.

Parenting tips and advice for the second week

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Navigating the second week of parenthood can feel overwhelming, but a few practical tips can make the journey smoother.

• Safe sleep practices: Ensure your baby sleeps on their back in a crib with a firm mattress and no loose bedding to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
• Nappy changing safety: Always keep one hand on your baby when changing nappies on a raised surface to prevent falls.
• Bath time safety: Never leave your baby unattended during bath time. Gather all necessary items beforehand, and use a bath seat to keep them safe.
• Car seat safety: Ensure your baby’s car seat is properly installed and that they are securely strapped in every time you travel.
• Temperature control: Keep your baby’s room at a comfortable temperature. Dress your baby in light layers and use a sleep sack instead of blankets to avoid overheating.
• Handling with care: Always support your baby’s head and neck when lifting or holding them. Avoid rough play or shaking.
• Sanitising: Keep your baby’s environment clean. Regularly sanitise items they contact, like dummies, bottles, and toys. Wash your hands frequently, especially before handling your baby or their feeding supplies.
• Recognising illness: Learn to recognise signs of illness, such as fever, persistent crying, or changes in feeding or sleeping patterns. Consult your healthcare provider if something doesn’t seem right.

What to expect in the few weeks ahead

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As you continue to settle into life with your newborn, the weeks ahead will bring more changes and developments.

• Growth spurts: Your baby may experience a growth spurt around 3 weeks old, leading to more frequent feedings and increased irritability.
• Increased alertness: Your baby will be more awake during the day. Engage with them through talking, singing, and gentle play.
• Improved motor skills: Your baby might move more intentionally, such as lifting their head during tummy time and bringing their hands to their mouth.
• Social smiles: Around 4 to 6 weeks, your baby may start to give their first real smiles, a sign of developing social skills.
• Better sleep patterns: While your baby will still wake frequently to feed, you might notice slightly longer stretches of sleep at night. Establishing a bedtime routine can help.
• First check-up: Your baby will have their first comprehensive check-up around 6-8 weeks, including measurements and developmental assessments.
• Vaccinations: The 6-8 week check-up will include their first set of vaccinations, which are important for protecting them against serious illnesses.

Frequently asked questions

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1. What should my 2-week-old baby be doing?

Your baby should be sleeping a lot, feeding frequently, and showing basic reflexes like rooting and grasping. They might also start to focus on faces and track movement briefly.

2. How often should I feed my 2-week-old baby?

Breastfed babies typically feed 8-12 times a day, while formula-fed babies usually eat every 3-4 hours, taking in about 60-90 ml per feed.

3. Is it normal for my 2-week-old baby to sleep a lot?

Yes, it’s normal. Newborns sleep around 16-18 hours a day in short bursts of 2-4 hours.

4. What are the signs of a healthy 2-week-old baby?

Look for regular feeding, multiple wet nappies daily, normal weight gain, and periods of alertness.

5. How can I soothe my 2-week-old baby?

Try swaddling, gentle rocking, singing, or using a dummy. Skin-to-skin contact can also be very comforting.

6. What should my 2-week-old baby be eating?

Breast milk or formula should be the sole source of nutrition. They don’t need water or solids at this stage.

7. How do I know if my 2-week-old baby is developing properly?

Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider will track your baby’s growth and development. Look for responses to sounds, brief periods of alertness, and basic reflexes.

Sources

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Australian Breastfeeding Association, 0-3 months.
Healthy WA, Child Development 0-3 months, May 2019.
Mayo Clinic, Helping and toddler health, February 2023.
CDC, 2 months, April 2024.
Better Health Channel, Child development (1) -newborn to three months, September 2012.