What to Expect With Your Four Week Old Baby

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As you enter your baby’s fourth week, you may feel a bit more comfortable with their day-to-day needs.

While the newborn stage is still in full swing, many parents begin to find their groove around this time, settling into a new normal and discovering ways to balance family life with re-entering the world outside.

Let’s look at what you can expect during this new week.

What to Expect in Your Newborn’s Fourth Week

Week three was the start of your baby waking up a bit more. You’ll likely continue to see more of those changes this week.

Physical Recovery for Moms

By now, you might feel more energized, and postpartum bleeding may have subsided. This can bring a welcome sense of relief and one less thing to manage.

However, this isn’t the case for everyone.

Be sure to continue listening to your body and giving yourself grace as you recover. Light activity, hydration, and proper nutrition can support your healing journey.

Developmental Milestones

four week old newborn baby doing tummy time

Your baby is continuing to grow and develop rapidly in their fourth week. You might notice improvements in their neck strength during tummy time or when you hold them upright.

Some babies begin turning their heads toward familiar sounds, like your voice. This is an encouraging sign of muscle development and an increased awareness of their surroundings.

Even if tummy time isn’t your baby’s favorite activity, it remains essential. Aim for short sessions several times a day on a soft, safe surface.

These exercises help build the neck, back, and shoulder muscles your baby needs for future milestones, like rolling over and sitting up.

Fussy Periods and the “Witching Hour”

How to Approach and Survive the Witching Hour

Many parents notice that their baby becomes particularly fussy during the late evening hours, often referred to as the “witching hour.”

This period, typically between 6 pm and midnight, can include bouts of crying that feel difficult to soothe. While this behavior is common, it can be exhausting.

With my babies, I found that it actually started around 4 pm. They didn’t cry a lot, but they also wouldn’t nap easily. I had to babywear a lot during that stage.

Some tips for managing the “witching hour” include:

Offering a feeding if your baby seems hungry.
Creating a calm environment with dim lighting and soothing sounds.
Using gentle motion, such as rocking or walking with your baby in a carrier.

If the crying seems excessive or you’re concerned about your baby’s comfort, don’t hesitate to consult their doctor for advice. Colic or other issues might be contributing factors, and a professional can provide guidance tailored to your baby’s needs.

Embracing Your New Normal

four week old baby wearing peachy pink headband

This week often marks the beginning of feeling more settled in your role as a parent. While challenges persist, finding small routines or moments of predictability can help.

Remember, self-care is vital too. Whether it’s a quick walk, a warm cup of tea, or a conversation with a friend, carve out time to recharge.

It’s also totally okay if nothing feels normal or settled yet. Timelines vary greatly. Continue to give yourself grace. You’re doing great.

Final Thoughts

Your baby’s fourth week is a time of continued growth and adjustment for both of you. From tummy time milestones to managing fussy evenings, each experience contributes to your baby’s development and your parenting journey.

As someone who has been through this experience three times, I can tell you that the days are long but the years are short.

Of course, I’ll encourage you to enjoy each stage as much as you can, but I’ll also share that there’s SO much to look forward to!