At 3 weeks, many parents start feeling more comfortable in their newfound roles. They are more in tune with what their baby needs, enjoy the wonderful baby smell, and are learning to balance the rhythm of life with a newborn—even when sleep-deprived.
Your baby is now more alert and starting to exhibit more of their own personality. However, as they become more aware, you might notice more fussiness, which might suggest early signs of colic.
Here’s what you should know about life with a 3-week-old, including developmental milestones, safety tips, and what to expect in terms of feeding and sleep.
3-Week-Old Baby Development
Your little one is now more awake and attentive than before. At this age, babies still sleep quite a bit, but you'll notice they're more responsive to the world around them. [1]
You might even experience some of those magical moments when your baby gazes into your eyes. While any eye contact is just beginning to develop, your baby can only see clearly about 8 to 12 inches away. [1]
As your baby’s personality begins to unfold, be prepared for a few more irritable spells. Some 3-week-olds might show signs of gas and fussiness. A good latch during breastfeeding can minimize air intake, reducing discomfort.
Some babies may begin to experience colic, characterized by frequent, prolonged crying, which can be quite stressful. It affects about 25% of infants in the first few months. [2]
Colic often improves in a few weeks. Options to comfort a colicky baby include rocking, gentle shushing, walking, or offering a pacifier. If you suspect your baby's tummy is upset, consult with their healthcare provider, as diet might play a role for some breastfed or formula-fed babies.
3-Week-Old Baby Milestones
Your baby is getting stronger daily, and you might notice more coordinated movements. With this growing strength, many babies are gaining a bit more control over their neck and head, and you might see them lift their heads during tummy time.
If your baby isn’t doing this yet, don’t worry. Tummy time aids in strengthening their head and neck muscles, helping to avoid flatness on the head’s back.
Around this time, your baby might start to move their eyes to follow faces or objects, though this skill is still emerging and will sharpen as they grow. Right now, their vision is still developing, and they can see clearly only within a short distance. [3]
3-Week-Old Baby Feeding
By now, your baby should have returned to their birth weight and started gaining around an ounce a day. They will still be eating frequently, although the time between feedings might begin to stretch.
Practice "responsive feeding," which involves feeding your baby in response to hunger signals and continuing until they seem full. Parents often find a feeding pattern that works for them, though there’s plenty of variability.
Some babies might cluster feed, while others might go longer between feedings without regression. If you notice any feeding issues, consulting a lactation expert or your baby's healthcare provider is a good idea.
Gas might be a significant cause of distress, influencing crying and possibly colic symptoms.
For breastfeeding, allowing your baby to finish one breast before switching can help them digest better, as they get more rich and digestible "hindmilk." If anything in your diet might upset your baby's digestive system, a conversation with your healthcare provider can offer guidance.
To ease a gassy tummy, try not to overfeed, burp your baby frequently, and consider a gentle back massage.
3-Week-Old Baby Sleep
Even at 3 weeks, your baby still needs plenty of sleep, averaging around 14 to 17 hours a day. Expect wake-ups at night for feeding, though some babies might begin sleeping stretches of up to four hours. They still require frequent feedings, which means nighttime wakes.
At this age, babies don't yet differentiate between night and day, but keeping daytime bright and nights dim can help them adjust over time.
3-Week-Old Baby Schedule
The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests doing tummy time two to three times daily, each session lasting about 3 to 5 minutes. This activity strengthens your baby's muscles and provides a great opportunity for playtime and bonding. [4]
When venturing outdoors, you might find that a stroller ride or using a baby carrier can be soothing, particularly if your baby is fussy.
3-Week-Old Baby Health and Safety
As long as your baby seems happy, gaining weight, and has enough wet and dirty diapers, there’s no need for concern until their one-month check-up. Of course, reach out to your provider if you have any questions or worries.
Note that breast milk might not provide enough vitamin D, so check with your healthcare provider about giving your baby vitamin D drops.
For gas relief, consult your healthcare provider, who might recommend options like gripe water or gas drops.
Swaddling is a comforting option for many fussy babies, but ensure it’s done safely by not wrapping too tightly around the hips and always placing your baby on their back to sleep.
3-Week-Old Baby Care Basics
Right now, much of baby care involves diaper changes. If your baby was circumcised, the area should be healed, but be watchful for infection signs such as redness or swelling.
Uncircumcised infants require normal washing without trying to retract the foreskin.
Blocked tear ducts are common, leading to watery or crusty eyes, which usually resolve on their own. A warm cloth can provide gentle soothing.
Your baby might develop “baby acne” or “cradle cap,” but neither needs treatment. Gentle skin care and allowing your baby's skin to breathe can be beneficial.
Use a baby brush or comb to gently manage cradle cap. [5] After applying some baby oil before a bath, you can shampoo and softly massage the scalp to help loosen any dry patches.
What Else To Know About Your 3-Week-Old Baby
If the crying does escalate at this time, remember it’s common and normal. Trust your instincts and talk to your healthcare provider if required. If handling the demands of new parenthood is overwhelming, know that support is always available, and seeking help is an important and wise step.
