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Congratulations, new mom! You have now entered your baby’s third week of development. This is a very exciting time as your baby will be going through significant changes in their growth and development. As you continue to get to know your little one, let’s take a closer look at what you can expect from your baby at 3 weeks old.
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Source: bing.comTable of Contents
Physical Development
During this time, your baby is rapidly growing and gaining weight. They should be growing at a rate of about 1 ounce per day, and they will likely have regained their birth weight if they lost any. Your baby’s head will also continue to grow and their fontanels (soft spots) will start to close. Their neck muscles are also getting stronger, which means they can lift their head for short periods of time when they’re lying on their tummy.
Sensory Development
Your baby’s senses are starting to develop more each day. They can now see and focus on objects up to 12 inches away, which is about the distance between your face and theirs when you’re holding them. Their sense of smell is also coming along, and they can recognize your scent. Additionally, they’re starting to differentiate between different sounds and can be soothed by your voice.
Feeding
If you’re breastfeeding, this is still the only source of nutrition your baby needs. Your baby will likely be feeding every 2-3 hours and may have longer stretches of sleep at night. Formula-fed babies will also be eating every 2-3 hours, but the amount they eat may vary.
Sleeping
Newborns typically sleep for 16-17 hours a day, but this varies from baby to baby. Your baby’s sleep patterns are still unpredictable and they may sleep for shorter or longer periods of time during the day and night.
Diapering
Your baby should be having at least 6 wet diapers and 3-4 dirty diapers every day. It’s important to change your baby’s diaper as soon as possible after they have soiled it to prevent diaper rash. Remember to clean your baby’s diaper area thoroughly with every diaper change.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baby At 3 Weeks Development
1. When will my baby start to smile?
Most babies start to smile between 4-6 weeks of age, but some babies may start as early as 2 weeks. Keep talking, singing, and playing with your baby to encourage them to smile.
2. How much should my baby be eating?
If you’re breastfeeding, your baby should be eating every 2-3 hours and may feed for up to 45 minutes at a time. Formula-fed babies will also be eating every 2-3 hours, but the amount they eat may vary.
3. How can I help my baby sleep better at night?
Try to establish a calming bedtime routine, such as a warm bath, a story, or a lullaby. Keep your baby’s sleep environment quiet and dark, and avoid stimulating activities before bedtime. Remember that newborns sleep for short periods and will wake up frequently to eat.
4. Should I be concerned if my baby’s fontanelle isn’t closing yet?
Most babies’ fontanelles will close between 12-18 months of age. If you’re concerned about your baby’s fontanelle, consult your pediatrician.
5. How often should I be bathing my baby?
Bathing your baby too often can dry out their skin. A sponge bath 2-3 times a week is sufficient until their umbilical cord stump falls off. Once the stump has fallen off, you can begin bathing your baby in a tub or sink.
Enjoy this special time with your new baby and remember to take care of yourself too. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider or a lactation consultant if you have any questions or concerns about your baby’s development.