Table of Contents
Physical Development
At 5 weeks old, your baby is starting to grow and develop at an incredible rate. They should have put on some weight, and their little body will have grown a little bit, too. You may have noticed that your baby is holding their head up a bit more now, and that’s because their neck muscles are getting stronger. They will also start to move their arms and legs more, and their movements will become less jerky as their muscles develop.
Sleep
You may be starting to feel like you’re on the verge of sleep deprivation, but don’t worry, it will get better. At 5 weeks old, your baby will still be sleeping a lot, but they may be starting to have slightly longer stretches of sleep at night. However, daytime naps may still be unpredictable, so it’s important to try and rest when your baby does.
Feeding
Feeding is still a crucial part of your baby’s development at 5 weeks old. Breastfeeding or bottle-feeding should still take place on demand, and it’s important to make sure your baby is getting enough to eat. Generally, a 5-week-old baby should be having between 5 and 7 feeds a day, although this can vary.
Communication
At 5 weeks old, your baby is starting to become more responsive to your voice and touch. They may even start to coo or make little noises when they’re happy. Communication with your baby is important, so make sure you talk to them, sing to them, and interact with them as much as possible.
Milestones
Every baby develops at their own pace, but there are certain milestones that you can expect your 5-week-old baby to reach. These include holding their head up for short periods of time, making eye contact, and responding to your voice and touch. It’s important to remember that every baby is different, and some may reach these milestones earlier or later than others.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should a 5-week-old baby be doing?
At 5 weeks old, your baby should be starting to hold their head up, moving their arms and legs more, and becoming more responsive to your voice and touch.
How much should a 5-week-old baby sleep?
A 5-week-old baby will still be sleeping a lot, but they may be starting to have slightly longer stretches of sleep at night. Daytime naps may still be unpredictable.
How often should a 5-week-old baby be fed?
A 5-week-old baby should be having between 5 and 7 feeds a day, although this can vary.
When should a 5-week-old baby start to lift their head?
Most 5-week-old babies will start to hold their head up for short periods of time, although every baby is different and some may reach this milestone earlier or later than others.
When should a 5-week-old baby start to smile?
Babies can start to smile anytime between 4 and 8 weeks old, so your 5-week-old baby may already be flashing you a grin!