Newborn Week 1: Development, Sleep & What to Expect
Week 1 at a glance
Sleep: 14–17 hrs/day in 2–3 hr windows — no day/night rhythm yet · Feeding: 8–12 breastfeeds or 1.5–2 oz formula every 2–3 hrs · Weight: Lose up to 7–10% birth weight in first 3–5 days — normal · Watch for: Jaundice (yellow tinge to skin/whites of eyes) — check under natural light · First check: Pediatrician visit at 2–3 days old
Week 1 of 12 · Month 1
Cluster feeding, yellow seedy stools (if breastfed), weight loss up to 7% — all normal.
Development This Week
- Rooting and sucking reflexes fully active
- Can focus 8–12 inches (the distance to your face while feeding)
- Recognizes mother's voice from 7 months in womb
- Startles at sounds (Moro reflex)
Sleep
Feeding
8–12 feeds
feeds per day — feed on demand, watch for hunger cues
What to Expect
This Week
Cluster feeding, yellow seedy stools (if breastfed), weight loss up to 7% — all normal.
Parent Tip
Feed on demand, not by schedule. Frequent feeding establishes milk supply and is neurologically beneficial.
Science Fact
Did You Know?
Newborns recognize their mother's voice from birth — a preference developed in the final trimester. Studies show they turn preferentially toward mom's voice within hours of birth.
What comes next
Week 2: weight regaining, first smiles coming
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