You made it—one whole month as a parent.
This is a big milestone. Your baby is still tiny and dependent, but you might already notice little changes that make them feel less “brand new.” And you? You’re slowly gaining confidence, even if it doesn’t feel like it every day.
What’s Happening with Your Baby at 4 Weeks?
They’re more awake & alert. You might see longer periods of quiet wakefulness and even a few intentional gazes at your face.
Stronger movements. Wiggling, stretching, and maybe even lifting their head a little higher during tummy time.
Early social smiles. At the very end of this week (or in the next one), you might get that magical first smile. It’s worth the sleepless nights.
Crying may peak. Many babies reach their “fussiest” stage between 4–6 weeks.
Your baby is also starting to recognize daily rhythms, even if they’re still far from having a predictable schedule.
Feeding: A Bit More Predictable
You’ve likely learned your baby’s hunger cues by now (like rooting, sucking on hands, or fussiness before crying).
Breastfed babies still nurse every 2–3 hours, but you may notice slightly longer stretches between feeds at night.
Formula-fed babies may now take around 3–4 ounces per feeding.
Remember: babies don’t follow the clock perfectly. Growth spurts can still make feeding feel non-stop.
If you’re curious about keeping track of feeding patterns, our Best Baby Tracker Apps blog highlights a few easy tools to help without overthinking it.
Sleep: Is It Getting Better?
Well… sort of.
Total sleep is still about 15–16 hours a day, but naps and nights are still inconsistent.
Some babies start giving you one longer stretch of 4–5 hours at night—others don’t (and both are normal).
Your baby might start to enjoy a simple bedtime routine: dim lights, gentle rocking, maybe a soft lullaby.
Right now, the goal isn’t a “schedule”—it’s just gently introducing cues that nighttime is different from daytime.
Your Body & Mind at 4 Weeks
You’re one month postpartum. That’s a huge accomplishment.
Bleeding (lochia) usually stops around now.
Your energy might improve a little, but you’re still sleep-deprived.
Emotionally, you might feel a mix of relief (“I’m getting the hang of this!”) and grief (“Wow, my life has really changed”).
And if you feel like you haven’t “bounced back” yet, that’s because no one does in four weeks. Be patient with yourself.
1-Month Pediatric Visit
This week, many babies have their one-month checkup, where the doctor will:
Weigh and measure your baby
Check reflexes and development
Discuss feeding, sleeping, and crying patterns
This is a great time to ask every question that’s been on your mind—write them down beforehand so you don’t forget.
That Magical First Smile
Around 4–6 weeks, many babies flash their first true social smile. It ’s not just gas—it’s them responding to you.
When it happens, it feels like the sun breaking through the clouds. That tiny smile makes every 2 a.m. feeding worth it.
A Gentle Reminder
You’ve done something incredible. You’ve kept a tiny human alive and loved for an entire month.
It’s still exhausting. It’s still messy. But you’re growing into this role—day by day, feed by feed, cuddle by cuddle.
So be proud. Rest when you can. And don’t forget to care for yourself, too.