*This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.*

Hey mom-to-be! There’s a lot you might not know yet about your newborn and what to expect with a newborn week by week, or how to survive the newborn stage.

Your body and your baby will go through so many changes in those first few weeks, and it’s hard to know how to prepare yourself.

In the first week of his life, your baby will be sleepy and less alert. Over the following weeks, he’ll become more alert to his surroundings, start developing more of a sleep and feeding schedule, and begin gaining muscle strength. He may also start to interact more with sounds and expressions.

By the time your newborn is out of the newborn stage, you’ll hardly remember what those first few days and weeks were like.

But for now, you can focus on just getting through, day-by-day and week-by-week, as you and your baby go through this life-altering, incredible rollercoaster together. Keep reading to find out what you can expect week-by-week with your newborn.

What to Expect with a Newborn Week by Week (Everything You Need to Know)

I’m a firm believer in preparing by researching what to expect but also not getting hung up on that information.

Just because it happens with some babies does not mean that it’ll happen with yours.

Be prepared for what might be ahead but don’t stress over it. The newborn stage can be overwhelming and after having gone through it 3 times now I’ve learned that the best way to go through it is by living in the moment and realizing that it’ll be over before I realize it.

With that said, let’s talk about what you can expect.

Week 1

what to expect with a newborn week by week in hospital

Week 1 is full of newness. You’ll have a brand new, squishy baby, and your body will still be recovering. This week is all about bonding with your baby and getting to know each other.

Your baby will be extra sleepy and may even need help waking up for feedings. Use that time between feelings to rest and allow your body to heal.

Some things to expect for you and your baby this week:

Your baby can only see 6 inches from her face. This is the perfect distance from your eyes to hers while you feed her. Use that eye contact to bond and enjoy your baby.
She’ll do lots of kicking with her legs and moving her arms. She will also easily get startled if she feels too exposed. Swaddle her when you can to keep her feeling secure.
His nails will be sharp! You might want mittens to cover his hands or a onesie with hand covers because you don’t want him scratching you or his face!
Your milk will come in around 72 hours. You’ll start breastfeeding with life-giving colostrum moments after birth, but the milk won’t come in until a few days later. You may begin to experience some tenderness and soreness in your nipples as you learn to get the appropriate latch.
Your baby’s feces will change from the black tar consistency to a bright yellow if breastfeeding or a light greenish color if using formula. It will stay this color until you start on solids around 6 months.

Week 2

what to expect with a newborn week by week lying on mom

By week 2, the sleep deprivation will begin to set in. The good news is that your body will begin feeling more recovered and better able to handle that sleep deprivation!

Your newborn still won’t be on a very consistent schedule, but you’ll begin understanding his cues more, and breastfeeding will become more routine.

Some things to expect for you and your baby this week:

Your baby might be slightly more alert and looking around, even though she still can’t see further than 6 inches.
Make sure you’re taking care of your nipples if you are breastfeeding. Putting cream or a pad on them can help to keep them from cracking or bleeding. If you are feeling frustrated or overwhelmed, ask a lactation consultant to help.
You can play with your baby by reading books or singing. They don’t need much stimulation at this stage because the whole world is brand new!

Week 3

what to expect with a newborn week by week looking at mom

You’ll be settling into the newborn stage at this point, accepting the lack of sleep in favor of the baby cuddles and sweet smells. You might even glimpse a real smile as a reward for your hard work!

But don’t despair if your baby isn’t smiling just yet; many newborns take their time looking around and are less interested in the social interaction at the beginning.

Some things to expect for you and your baby this week:

She might be able to start lifting her head a little more and exhibiting a little more muscle control.
She might start cooing more often and looking directly at you instead of the glossy-eyed look.
Your milk supply will be well-established, and you might be producing enough to start saving a little extra here and there. Invest in a good pump or silicone suction cup to make it easier on you in between feeds.
You might start to notice more of a schedule between sleep and wake times, especially periods when your baby is more interactive and aware.
You might get your first real smile! Every baby is different, but many babies smile intentionally for the first time during the 3rd or 4th week. Live it up!

Week 4

what to expect with a newborn week by week talking to newborn

By now, you’ll probably feel more comfortable with the day-to-day needs of your baby.

You’ll be settling into the new normal for your family and learning how to juggle it as you gingerly re-enter the world.

Some things to expect for you and your baby this week:

Your body will continue to feel healed and more energized, and you’ll probably have finished your post-partum bleeding, giving you one less thing to worry about!
Your baby will continue to develop neck strength and may even start to turn her head a little as you talk to her.
Your baby will benefit from activities like tummy time! Even if it’s not his favorite, try to continue exposing him to good muscle-building activities.
You may notice a colic period or “witching hour” between 6 pm and midnight when your baby is fussy or cries excessively. It’s normal for babies to be fussy at night, but if you feel it’s excessive, talk with his doctor about possible solutions.

Weeks 5-6

what to expect with a newborn week by week doing tummy time

Though the last 4 weeks will have been a bit of a blur, by week 5, you might start to come out of that fog a little bit.

Your baby may begin sleeping slightly longer stretches between nightly feedings, and you’ll probably feel more secure in your routine.

If your baby isn’t sleeping well then read this tips for what to do if your newborn fights sleep.

Some things to expect for you and your baby these weeks:

You might begin to see more intentional verbal cues. Her cries will sound more specific, and her coos will be more purposeful.
He should be able to lift his head 45 degrees while on his stomach during tummy time. Keep working on helping him build those incredible little muscles.
He may begin rolling from back to belly! Even though he’s not entirely on the move yet, be careful leaving him on elevated surfaces and keep the floor clear of rough objects.
You might experience your first baby chuckle! Don’t be worried if it takes a little longer to get that laugh, though; every baby is different, and personality plays a huge part here! (Source: Parents.com)

Weeks 7-8

what to expect with a newborn week by week 2 month old

As the newborn stage morphs into the “baby” stage, you may look at old pictures of your brand-new baby and hardly recognize that tiny little person!

They go through so many changes in the first few weeks, and so do you. The good news is, you have plenty of time to learn and grow together.

Some things to expect for you and your baby these weeks:

She might be using her hands more. She’ll be grabbing for things. Even though her grip is not very tight yet, feel free to help her practice by putting toys in her hands and letting her hold them.
He’ll be getting better at rolling. If he hasn’t rolled over yet, you might see it now. Keep doing that tummy time and getting those muscles strong.
You’ll probably feel more comfortable getting out to the house. You will know your routine and feel good about timing moments when she’ll be happier or grumpier. Get those social engagements when you can!
She still won’t be sleeping through the night, but hopefully, she’ll be sleeping for more extended periods. Establish a solid night-time routine and help her recognize cues for night-sleep.

Summary

Newborn babies are precious and lovely, but they can be intimidating and exhausting. Give yourself a break as often as possible and allow the changes to happen naturally as your baby improves in sleeping and eating and your body heals.

You’ll see fantastic muscle and verbal development as your newborn grows.

As a new parent, it helps to be prepared to know what to expect for your new little one. Just keep in mind that every baby is different and will hit these milestones at different times!