Congratulations! You and your baby have made it through the first month! So many developmental changes are happening in your newborn, almost on a daily basis.

It’s typical for 1-month-old babies to:

• Startle at loud or sudden sounds
   
• Use sounds other than crying (such as cooing)
   
• Respond to your voice, cuddles and attention
   
• Hold the head up briefly during tummy time
   
• Try to focus on highly contrasted objects and to follow faces

Just remember:  All babies are different and develop at their own pace. Developmental milestones occur over a range of time because of this.

If your infant hasn’t yet reached some of these milestones, it doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong.

Talk with your baby’s healthcare provider about any developmental concerns, including if your baby ...

• Has one eye crossed or not aligned with the other. (Babies’ eyes do wander in the first few months, but should not stray too far from each other.)
   
• Does not respond to your voice or other comforting sounds.
   
• Does not move legs or arms in unison (only 1 leg kicks while other does not, for example).

See also ... 

•  What your 1-month-old is learning and experiencing

•  Infant vision: Birth to 24 months

•  Looking ahead: Development at 2 months

Disclaimer: This page is not intended to provide medical advice about your child. Always seek the advice of a physician, qualified healthcare provider or child-development specialist with any questions you have about your child's health, medical condition or development. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you read here.