As your little one nears their first birthday, every week seems to bring new milestones. At 44 weeks, your baby is becoming more mobile and is starting to understand their surroundings much better. Here’s what to expect in terms of development and health for your 44-week-old baby.
Milestones & Development
Growth
At this age, babies typically weigh around 18.8 pounds for girls and 20.3 pounds for boys, with average lengths of 28.2 inches for girls and 28.8 inches for boys. Expect your little one to grow about half an inch in height each month.
Emerging Skills
Your baby is developing new cognitive skills. They’re grasping the concept of object permanence, meaning they understand that you still exist even when they can’t see you. This may lead to some separation anxiety when you step out of the room. Additionally, they love to mimic you, whether it’s pressing buttons on the remote or pretending to talk on the phone. Their motor skills are also advancing as they crawl, pull themselves up to stand, and walk while holding onto furniture or your hands.
Baby Health
Feeding
While your baby is exploring solids, the majority of their nutrition should continue to come from breast milk or formula. Introducing more finger foods can support self-feeding and enhance fine motor skills. It’s important to avoid added sugars, high-salt foods, and unpasteurized options. Also, steer clear of juice until your baby is at least one year old.
Sleep
Your 44-week-old baby needs about 12 to 16 hours of sleep each day, which includes 9 to 12 hours overnight. Even though there may be some interruptions, establishing a consistent bedtime routine can help.
FAQs
Can my baby watch TV?
At this stage, babies learn best through hands-on experiences. Experts recommend keeping screen time to a minimum for children under 18 months.
Timely Topics for 44 Weeks
Sleep Training
If you’re encountering sleep challenges, now is a great time to consider sleep training. Various methods are available, ranging from the Ferber method, which typically takes 7 to 10 days, to gentler approaches with no crying involved. Always consult your pediatrician to ensure your baby is ready.
Diaper Rash
Diaper rash is common, especially between 9 and 12 months. As your baby sits for extended periods and begins eating solids, they may experience harsher stools that irritate their skin. To treat a typical diaper rash, let the area air out and apply a gentle barrier cream.
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In summary, your 44-week-old baby is reaching new developmental milestones, from cognitive skills to motor skills. As they continue to grow, keeping a consistent feeding and sleep routine will support their health. Also, don’t forget to monitor for diaper rash and consult with your pediatrician as needed.
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