Your little ones are learning and growing right from the start. Even at 4 weeks your little ones are conquering developmental milestones, and are even ready for playtime!
Every baby is unique, but there are common traits that most four week olds will start displaying at this time. Let’s talk about what to expect, and how you can start interacting with your little ones at this precious age.
Your Baby May Now Be…
- Reacting to bright light You’ll notice your babies start to react to bright, sometimes unwelcomed, light.
- Making more head movements Tummy time is starting to get exciting as your little ones begin to move their heads from side to side.
- Recognizing Familiar Faces Your baby will start to stare at you, and other familiar faces, with interest.
Your little ones may not be talking back to you just yet, but they’re constantly learning. Don’t underestimate those tiny minds. This is a wonderful age to guide your little ones as they grow and learn!
Encouraging Learning
You play a huge part in the learning process of your four week olds. You’re also likely to be the person that they spend the most time with, so it’s important to encourage their learning development.
- When your little ones show interest in something, join in! If their eyes are transfixed on an object, let them touch it (providing that it’s safe to do so.) Sense of touch is a very beneficial learning tool for your babies.
- Learn to love the sound of your own voice, because they will! Talking to, and around, your babies aids their learning greatly.
- Lastly, focus solely on your little one. It can be hard to tune out the rest of the world, but doing so has wonderful benefits. Set aside quiet time for just you and your little ones so they can focus on learning new things!
Play, Play, Play
Yes, even your four week old loves to play! You’re not going to be tossing a ball around, but there are plenty of ways to play with them at this age.
Playtime at this age is all about interaction and communication. It actually aids your babies’ brains in development, and helps them make connections about the world they’ve been welcomed into.
- Sensory play – Offer your baby textured toys, or even different textures right from the kitchen. You can let them touch various foods such as rice, and even water. Of course, you’ll have to supervise and aid your child, but this is a great learning tool.
If you’re looking for a great sensory toy, this one is wonderful. Not only is it loved by parents and has several textures, but it’s also a great teether!
- BABY TEETHING TOY MADE FOR LITTLE HANDS: The Winkel features a mesmerizing maze of soft, continuous BPA-free teething tubes, and can be refrigerated for additional soothing comfort - a perfect baby chew toy for tiny hands.
- DEVELOPMENTAL BABY TOY: Babies are instantly drawn to this colorful and lightweight infant toy. The Winkel promotes clutching and two-handed play while the center cube with tapered corners encases a quiet but pleasing baby rattle to provide auditory stimulus.
- TIME-HONORED CLASSIC: With over 25 years engaging babies and soothing even the fussiest of teethers, the Winkel is a perfect shower gift for new moms. Safe and dependable, this classic toy for babies has received numerous accolades and has proven to be a true baby go-to and parent must-have.
- BABY TOY FOR NEWBORNS AND UP: Safety rated for newborns and up, the Winkel measures 5" x 4" x 3.5" and easily tucks into the diaper bag when baby is on the go.
- STANDING BY OUR BRAND: If you're reading this, you've found a safe toy from a real company and a brand that cares. Since 1978, Manhattan Toy has been a trusted source of imaginative toys for babies, toddlers and kids of all ages. All of our toys are rigorously safety tested and every toy has our 800 number with a dedicated customer support team to answer your call.
- Tummy Time – Not only is tummy time a great way to play, but it’s also important for several other areas of development. A tummy mat, like this one is an a great product to have on hand. It gives your little one more to explore, such as colors and textures; all while working those neck muscles.
- Playtime is a ball with this grow-with-me ball pit play gym
- Includes 40 balls with rainbow carrying case for easy storage
- Parents can drop balls through the mesh canopy hole, or baby can practice motor skills by rolling or passing the balls back and forth!
- Cheerful elephant toy lights up and plays 20+ minutes (and detaches for on-the-go fun)
- Includes 7 tropically cool take-along toys: elephant Musical toy, Unicorn crinkle toy, mirror, flash cards, hanging leaf toy and bead rattle
- Express yourself – Making fun faces at your babies is one way to play, and they may even begin to copy you! You can also mimic those made by the baby. Take advantage of the chance to be completely silly with your little ones.
- Talk to them – Communication is absolutely important right from the start. Having conversations with your baby encourages them to speak, and helps them understand how language works.
Try talking to your baby whenever you do any task. The constant communication will be a great component of their own language development.
Personality begins to grow
As your babies grow and learn, you’ll notice that their personalities begin to shine through. Through all the interaction and various methods of play, they’ll come to understand proper behavior with those around them.
Some Things to Consider
Most babies tend to do things on their own time, but there are a few signs you may want to watch for. If your babies are not doing any of the following around this age, it’s a good idea to mention it to the pediatrician.
- Not making any sounds
- Showing no interest in faces, or inability to focus
- No response to bright lights
- Lack of movement in the arms and legs
They may eat and sleep for the most part at this age, but playtime has incredible advantages for both you and your little ones. Remember, they’re constantly learning at this stage, and you’ve already won the title of best teacher.
