Developmental Milestones At 1 Month Old

​​​​​In the very beginning, it may seem that your baby does nothing but eat, sleep, cry, and fill their diapers. By the end of the first month, they'll be much more alert and responsive.

Gradually they'll begin moving their body more smoothly and with much greater coordination—especially in getting their hand to their mouth.

You'll realize that they listen when you speak, watch you as you hold them, and occasionally move their own body to respond to you or attract your attention.

Here are some other typical milestones you can look for in a baby this age.

Movement milestones 

• Makes jerky, quivering arm thrusts

• Brings hands within range of eyes and mouth

• Moves head from side to side while lying on stomach (see "Back to Sleep, Tummy to Play")
  

• Head flops backward if unsupported

• Keeps hands in tight fists

• Strong reflex movements

Visual and hearing milestones

• Focuses vision 8 to 12 inches (20.3 to 30.4 cm) away

• Eyes wander and occasionally cross or drift outward

• Prefers black-and-white or high-contrast patterns

• Prefers the human face to other patterns

• Hearing is fully mature

• Recognizes and reacts to loud sounds

• May look or turn toward familiar sounds and voices

Smell and touch milestones

• Prefers sweet smells

• Avoids bitter or acidic smells

• Recognizes the scent of their own mother's breastmilk

• Prefers soft to coarse sensations

• Dislikes rough or abrupt handling

Toys appropriate for a 1 month old baby

• Mobile with highly contrasting colors and patterns (do not attach to the sleeping surface)

• Music players with soft music

• Soft, brightly colored and patterned toys that make gentle sounds (remember not to leave these in the crib during sleep times)

Remember

If you have any concerns about your child's development, talk with their pediatrician.

More information

• Checkup Checklist: 1 Month Old