As you navigate this incredible yet exhausting time, it’s clear that each moment with your 7-week-old baby is a mix of fleeting joy and endless wonder. You’re likely beginning to pick up on your little one’s cues and sounds, and as those smiles become more frequent, the bond between you deepens. Here’s what you need to know about your baby’s growth and development at this stage.
7-Week-Old Baby Milestones & Development
Growth
After a growth spurt last week, your little one is probably showing some signs of increased size. Babies typically gain between 1.5 to 2 pounds and grow about an inch every month. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the average weight for a 7-week-old boy is around 11.5 pounds, while girls typically weigh about 10.6 pounds. However, the most important thing is to monitor your baby’s growth against their own pattern rather than comparing them to others.
Emerging Skills
If your baby was a bit fussy last week, they’re likely returning to a more content state now. At this age, babies are honing their sensory connections and may start tracking objects with their eyes or recognizing sounds. You remain their favorite entertainer—your voice, smell, and face are comforting. Encourage these interactions by smiling, talking, and even singing to them.
7-Week-Old Baby Health
Feeding
Wondering how much your 7-week-old should be eating? Generally, they may consume about 3 to 4 ounces of breast milk or formula every three hours. Babies are pretty good at self-regulating their intake, but it’s best to keep it under 32 ounces in a 24-hour period.
Sleep
Hopefully, your baby’s sleep is improving. With the growth spurt and sleep regression behind you, your little one might be settling into a better sleep routine. On average, a 7-week-old will sleep around 15.5 hours in a 24-hour period, with a significant portion of that happening at night. If your baby is having trouble sleeping, you’re not alone—many parents face this challenge.
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Summary
At 7 weeks, your baby is growing and developing rapidly. They are becoming more aware of their surroundings and starting to establish their own routines. Regular feeding and sleep patterns are crucial as you navigate this exciting time together.
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