Being a new parent is both exciting and overwhelming. As a parent of a premature baby, the excitement is just as real, but the feeling of being overwhelmed is heightened. Caring for a premature baby requires extra attention, care, and patience. At seven weeks old, your baby has come a long way since their birth. In this post, we’ll discuss what you can expect in terms of 7 week old premature baby development.
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Physical Development
At 7 weeks, your baby’s weight should be increasing each week. They are likely to be gaining around 20-30 grams each day, which is a great sign of growth! Around this time, your baby’s digestive system is getting stronger, and they may start having longer periods between feeds. They are also starting to develop more head control and may start to lift their head during tummy time.
Source: bing.comAdditionally, your baby’s eyesight is improving, and they can now focus on objects that are up to 18 inches away. They may even start to track objects with their eyes. As their vision continues to improve, they may start to recognize familiar faces and objects.
Cognitive Development
At 7 weeks, your baby’s cognitive development is progressing quickly. They are starting to recognize familiar sounds, such as your voice, and may turn their head towards the sound. They may even start to coo and gurgle in response to your voice. At this age, your baby is also starting to learn cause and effect. For example, if they shake a rattle, they may start to realize that it makes a noise.
Social Development
Even at just 7 weeks old, your baby is starting to build social skills. They are learning to communicate and interact with the world around them. They may start to mimic your facial expressions or even smile in response to your smile. At this age, your baby is also starting to develop a sense of trust and security with you as their caregiver.
Challenges
As a parent of a premature baby, there may be some challenges that you face. Your baby may be more susceptible to illnesses, and their immune system may not be as strong as a full-term baby’s. It’s important to take extra precautions, such as washing your hands frequently and limiting contact with sick individuals. Additionally, your baby may have difficulty feeding, gaining weight, or regulating their body temperature. These challenges can be addressed with the help of your doctor and healthcare team.
Conclusion
Watching your premature baby grow and develop is a wonderful experience. At 7 weeks old, your baby is making great progress in terms of physical, cognitive, and social development. While there may be challenges that you face along the way, remember that there are resources available to help you navigate this journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bond with my premature baby if they’re in the NICU?
A: Yes! While it may be more challenging, there are many ways to bond with your premature baby while they’re in the NICU. You can talk to them, sing to them, and even provide skin-to-skin contact if allowed.
Q: How often should I be feeding my premature baby at 7 weeks old?
A: Every baby’s feeding needs are different, but at 7 weeks old, your premature baby may be able to go longer periods between feeds. Aim to feed your baby every 2-3 hours, or as directed by your pediatrician.
Q: When can I start introducing solid foods to my premature baby?
A: Typically, solid foods are introduced between 4-6 months of age, but this may vary for premature babies. It’s important to consult with your doctor before introducing solid foods to your baby.
Q: Should I be concerned if my premature baby isn’t meeting developmental milestones at the same rate as full-term babies?
A: Every baby develops at their own pace, and premature babies may meet developmental milestones at a slightly different rate than full-term babies. However, if you have concerns about your baby’s development, it’s important to talk to your doctor.
Q: What are some typical signs of illness in premature babies?
A: Signs of illness in premature babies may include difficulty breathing, lethargy, poor feeding, or fever. If you notice any of these signs, contact your doctor immediately.