Newborn Infant Development

Newborn development is an amazing process. Consider that human babies are the least developed and most dependent for the longest time of all mammals. Newborn infant development is often subtle in the first weeks of life. Once development is apparent, it progresses steadily and with increasing pace.

Most new parents inadvertently believe that they need to be doing something to stimulate the development of their newborn infant. This is a fallacy. Everyday activities such as changing, bathing, feeding and cuddling are enough stimulation for development. Often, new parents inadvertently overstimulate their newborn causing unsettled behaviour in the infant and untold frustration for the parent.

Development is stimulated by noise, holding, talking, stroking, looking and moving. Newborn babies are born with the ability to suck, swallow, cry, breathe and some movement of their body. Their body movements are not controlled and initially need support. By three weeks of age most parents will see a difference in the slight development of their baby. By six weeks, their newborn infant will smile responsively and repeatedly at their parents. They begin to make cooing noises. They will also follow them across the room more readily and turn to sounds more noticeably. Their responses are slower than older children due to their immaturity.

Giving your baby time to move independently is encouraged at any age but especially from around six weeks of age. From this age onwards, your newborn infant's development will begin to progress more rapidly and you will notice their abilities increase with each week. Floor time, including tummy time is encouraged as a regular daily activity even if only for a minute or so to begin with. As they get stronger and you notice they are stronger in holding up first their head, then chest, you can increase the time spent here.

Newborn babies will soon begin to reach towards things and eventually to grab. You will notice them looking at their hands as they begin to notice their environment.

The most developed organ is their mouth. This is the reason they put everything into their mouth. It is how they explore their surroundings initially.

By around four months you will notice your baby start to roll to the side. He will be starting to get stronger at standing with help to steady him. At around five months he will start to roll over. By about six months he will be able to sit on his own for a few minutes.

Playtime is important for newborn development because it is how they learn about their body and environment. It helps to develop their senses, keep their brain busy and body healthy. It also teaches them that someone cares for them. As they mature, their ability to manage increasing stimulation becomes apparent. They will become more independent in play, responsive and interactive.

Newborn infant development follows a common pattern however the rate is individual.