Growth

Weight and Length

I will lose some weight after birth but I will probably gain it back within two weeks.

On average, I will gain about 180 to 240 grams (6 to 8 ounces) per week. But some weeks I might gain more and some weeks I might gain less.

I grow in spurts. I might have a growth spurt when I am about 3 weeks old and when I am about 6 weeks old. During a growth spurt I will want to eat more and will gain more weight.

Head

• I have two soft spots on my head where the bones have not yet grown together.
• The soft spot near the front of my head is probably still soft but is well protected by skin. The soft spot near the back of my head might be closed.
• I might have bumps and bruises on my head and face. These bumps and bruises were caused when I was born and will go away. If you are concerned, talk to our community health nurse or doctor.
• I can hold my head steady but my neck gets tired. Remember to cradle or support my head when you are holding or moving me.

Teeth

• My gums are smooth and pink. I need to have my gums rubbed gently with a damp cloth every day to help keep them clean.
• All of my baby teeth and some of my adult teeth have already formed under my gums.
• Good nutrition will help my teeth to grow strong.

Development

Movement

• I was born with some simple reflexes such as searching for a nipple, sucking, swallowing, and grasping items that are put in my hand.
• I move my arms and legs in circles when I am awake.

Language

• I cry to tell you that I am hungry, tired, uncomfortable, in pain, or lonely. You will probably learn to recognize my different cries. But be patient. It may take time for us to communicate.
• I make other sounds like grunting, gurgling, sighing, small throaty noises, cooing, laughing, and the beginning of babbling.

Hearing

• I have been able to hear since before I was born.
• I might stop moving and listen when I hear a sound.
• Talk to me. I like to hear people’s voices, especially my parents’ voices.
• I am startled by loud noises.

Vision

• I have been able to see since I was born. I see best when objects are close to me, between 20 and 38 centimetres (8 and 15 inches). Objects that are far away are still blurry.
• I might turn my head to follow faces and bright objects and can focus on objects that are close to me.
• I like to look at simple patterns in black and white or bright colors.
• I discover my own hands as they wave in front of my face.