Your baby may seem more alert this week
Early signs of curiosity about the world
By The Millie's Team · Parenting Notes
In the fourth week, many parents notice small moments of extra eye contact or curiosity. These brief windows of alertness are early signs your baby is starting to take in more of the world.
What is happening
Your baby's vision is still developing, but they can now focus more clearly on faces close to them. Their brain is taking in light, sound, and movement in a more organised way. Short bursts of quiet alertness are when much of this early learning happens.
Is this normal
Yes. Some babies show long, calm gazes. Others have brief flickers of attention before drifting off again. Both are normal. There is no expected level of alertness at this age.
What you may notice
- Longer eye contact during feeds and cuddles
- A pause when they hear your voice
- Eyes following a slow moving face or object
- Brief calm awake times after a feed
What helps right now
- Holding your baby about a foot from your face when they are alert
- Talking and singing during everyday care
- Letting alert moments be quiet rather than busy
- Following your baby's lead when they look away
What to expect next
These small moments of attention will grow into longer awake stretches in the coming weeks, and soon into the first social smiles. For now, simply being close, talking softly, and letting your face be the most interesting thing in the room is exactly what your baby needs.