Newborns are not as
fragile as some people
think. As an inexperienced
dad you might now realize
what your newborn is capable
of at such a young age. Most
of what a newborn does is
reactionary or instinct, but
it doesn't make it any less
amazing or sometimes
amusing!
Within the first
few weeks your newborn could
be doing the following:
- See objects 8-12
inches away. They won't
be able to focus much,
but they can still see
you.
- Move their heads and
eyes towards something
of interest, or move
their head if breathing
is blocked. They won't
be able to move their
head much, but the
instinct to move when
breathing is impaired is
apparent.
- Identify you and
your partner's voice.
- Smell and taste
where they may even show
preference for their own
mother's milk. Dislike
for strong, nasty odors
can be seen.
- Flinch or drawback
when pinched.
- Sneeze and yawn.
- Startle reflex. When
started by a loud noise
their arms and legs
shoot out from their
body and stiffen. This
is by far the most
entertaining reflex in
my opinion.
- Rooting reflex. When
your baby's lips are
touched they will
instinctively open their
mouth or smack their
lips in anticipation for
food.
- Tongue thrust
reflex. Intended to
guard babies from
choking, any strange
objects placed on their
tongue (
- Stepping reflex. If
help upright and leaned
forward your baby will
usually stick their foot
out in an attempt to
avoid falling.
- Grasping reflex. If
you touch your baby's
open palm with your
finger she will close
her hand and grasp your
finger.
- Your baby may try to
imitate your
expressions. If you
stick your tongue out,
your baby may try to
copy you.
- Your baby will be
fascinated by high
contrast objects and
will stare at them
endlessly.
These cool newborn facts are
only the start, just wait
and see. You will be
surprised at how quickly
babies learn!
