4 Week Old Baby: Feeding, Care, Sleep & What to Expect

Whoa now, it’s seriously been about a month already?

Maybe it’s been a blur of surrealism, absolute bliss, stunning exhaustion, or a combination of the three.

Whatever the combo of feelings, you and your peanut have had quite the near-month of growth, development, and milestones.

As week 4 comes to an end, we can imagine you’re curious about what’s happening with your baby right now.

But first, mama, congrats on 4 weeks of parenting — you did it!

📝 In this article:

What should a 4-week-old routine be?

If you’re picturing a perfectly planned day, you might want to lower that bar juuust a bit – four-week-olds are on their own wild ride, and a “routine” is more of a hopeful guideline at this stage.

Instead, think of it as a flow rather than a schedule, with a few rhythms to keep you both (mostly) sane.

Here’s what a 4-week-old’s day might loosely look like:

🍼 Eat (little and often): Every 2-3 hours is typical for feeds, day or night. Babies at this age haven’t learned that the rest of us do this thing called sleeping, so expect them to snack around the clock.

💤 Cat naps: Those naps could be 20 minutes or two hours. 🤷‍♀️ They’ll doze off several times a day, but try not to stress about timing.

💩 Poop: Who knew something that cute could make that much mess?

🥱 Wake windows: After feeding and a bit of a snooze, they might have a few minutes of awake time where they’re ready to stare at your face or bat around their little hands.

🔁 Repeat…ish: Their rhythm will likely go something like eat-sleep-poop-repeat, but don’t worry if it doesn’t line up perfectly. Some days they’ll nap longer or shorter, eat a bit more or less – it’s all good.

What to do with a 4 week old baby

A lot of your day will look like this: feed, cuddle, try to soothe, attempt a diaper change without getting… well, “showered” on, and repeat.

Mostly, it’s about keeping things simple, staying flexible, and giving yourself a pat on the back every time you manage to get through another feed, change, and nap.

But what do you do with them while they’re awake?

True, their wake windows might be getting a little bit longer now, so it’s up to you to keep them entertained and get their brains whirring.

So how do you play, entertain, and bond with your 4 week old baby? Well…

• Snuggle and bond: Lean into all the cuddles! Hold them close, do some skin-to-skin, and soak up that baby smell. It’s good for both of you (and can even help them regulate body temperature). [1]
• Chat about your day: Babies this age love hearing your voice, even if they don’t understand a word of it. Narrate your day or fill them in on your grocery list – it’s great for their language development (and gives you a break from talking to yourself). Why not combine it with something you love, and read a book you’ve been dying to read aloud to them? [2]
• Introduce tummy time: Just a couple of minutes here and there on their belly helps build those tiny neck and shoulder muscles. Expect some wiggling and grumbling – that means they’re working hard for their tummy time!
• Get outside together: Pop them in the stroller or baby carrier and head out for a walk. It’s soothing for them and gives you a change of scenery. Bonus: fresh air is great for both of your moods!
• Rock the swaddle (if they’re into it): A snug swaddle can work wonders for sleep and helps them feel safe and cozy. Not every baby is a fan, so follow their lead.
• Low-key playtime: Hold their little hands, move them gently around, or let them grasp your finger. It’s simple, but it helps them discover how their body moves and builds their coordination.
• Sing or hum to them: You don’t need to be Adele – your baby thinks you’re the greatest singer ever! Lullabies, pop tunes, or even jingles you make up on the fly are fair game.

Can 4 week old babies watch TV?

Well, no — you can put the TV on to watch your favorite programs while baby’s there, but they won’t really be watching it with you.

Technically speaking, babies’ eyes and brains are still figuring out the world at four weeks old.

Their vision is only just beginning to make sense of shapes and light, and while they might catch a glance of those flashing colours on the screen, they’re not able to understand it.

Bright lights, quick scene changes, and flashy colors on TV can also be a lot for those tiny peepers, and too much screen time can actually overstimulate them instead of calming them down. [3]

How many times should a 4 week old baby poop a day?

At 4 weeks, baby poop habits can vary quite a bit, but here’s a quick rundown:

• Breastfed babies might poop as often as after every feed — up to 4 times or more a day — or they might surprise you and only go once every few days.
• Formula-fed babies tend to be a little more consistent, usually pooping around 1-2 times a day.
• Combination-fed babies, tend to go somewhere in between: they might go more frequently than a fully formula-fed baby but may not reach the frequency of a breastfed one.

When it comes to diapering, expect to go through about 10-12 diapers a day with a mix of wet and dirty ones.

The poop itself should generally be soft and easy to pass — yellow and seedy for breastfed babies, and a bit more formed for formula-fed ones.

Keep an eye out for anything unusual like mucus or blood, though — if you see anything out of the ordinary, get in touch with your doc, just in case.

💩 Everything else you need to know: Baby Poop: Your Expert Guide

What is a 4 week old sleep schedule?

At 4 weeks, sleep is more of a cycle than a schedule, with naps, feeds, and wake-ups sprinkled throughout the day and night in no particular order.

Generally, your baby’s wake window is super short — think 45 minutes to an hour before they’re ready to doze off again.

During those sleep spells, they might sleep anywhere from 1-3 hours (if you’re lucky), but don’t be surprised if they prefer to doze in your arms rather than in their crib.

You’re not alone if your 4-week-old baby won’t sleep unless held — they’ve just spent nine months nestled up, and your arms are still their favorite place!

Try to embrace the snuggles, and know that this phase won’t last forever.

If you’re hoping to gently introduce crib or bassinet naps, you can start by placing them down once they’re in a deeper sleep, or try a swaddle for extra comfort.

😩 When will they sleep?? Newborn Sleep Schedule by Week

Should a 4 week old have a bedtime?

No, not really — 4 week old babies are still living in their own timezone (one that changes every hour, it seems).

Instead of a structured bedtime, think of their evening as a series of naps that might stretch a bit longer if you’re lucky.

A 4-week-old’s circadian rhythm is still getting the memo that nighttime exists, so there’s no need to aim for a 7pm tuck-in just yet.

What can help, though, is starting a tiny evening routine.

A little low-light, a gentle cuddle, maybe a lullaby if you’re up for it — subtle ways to let baby know it’s time to wind-down.

Over time, these routines can help them ease into longer sleep stretches, but at 4 weeks, it’s all about embracing the glorious unpredictability of baby sleep.

Can I let my 4 week old sleep through the night?

It depends — some 4 week olds are happy to sleep through the night without a feed, but generally, at this age, babies still need frequent feeds around the clock to help them grow, around every 2-4 hours.

That said, some babies do manage a longer stretch here and there, and that’s perfectly okay, too.

If your baby is growing well and your doctor’s given the all-clear, you can enjoy those rare stretches of sleep guilt-free.

What is the 4 week newborn regression?

Around this time, babies hit a growth spurt that can mess with sleep, making it feel like your 4 week old baby isn’t sleeping at all.

They may want to feed more, cling to you like their personal mattress, and resist any nap that doesn’t involve being held.

The good news? It’s a phase, lasting just a few days to a week.

Think of it as a progression rather than a regression — baby’s growing and learning something new, which can mess up their sleep cycle.

As frustrating as it might be, they’re not doing it to spite you, mama — and it will pass.

What is a 4 week old feeding schedule?

At this age, your little one is likely eating every 2-3 hours, day and night, and it’s pretty much a round-the-clock buffet.

Why so frequent? Well, your 4-week-old baby’s stomach size is still pretty small — about the size of a large egg — so they fill up fast but also need refills just as quickly.

Some feeds may be long, others are little “drive-thru” snacks.

And whether they’re going through growth spurts or just sticking to their own rhythm, this frequent feeding is normal and essential for all that brain and body building.

🍼 Hungry baby? Newborn Baby Feeding Schedule

Am I overfeeding my 4 week old?

Worried you’re overfeeding that hungry little 4-week-old?

Don’t stress — you’re definitely not alone — it’s a common question among our Peanut mamas, especially when your 4-week-old is fussy and eating constantly.

Babies at this age often go through growth spurts (hello, endless appetite!) and may seem to want milk all the time.

The good news is, it’s actually pretty hard to overfeed a breastfed baby, and even bottle-fed babies are usually good at stopping when they’re full.

Fussiness can mean a lot of things — sometimes they’re just looking for comfort, or maybe they’re dealing with gas or tiredness.

If your baby seems content after feeds, has plenty of wet diapers, and is gaining weight steadily, you’re on the right track!

🤱 Is it even possible? Can You Overfeed a Newborn?

How do I know if my 4 week old is still hungry?

Wondering if your 4-week-old is still hungry?

Look for classic signs: rooting (that head-turn, mouth-open search), lip-smacking, or little hands heading to their mouth.

Fussiness is another sign of hunger — and around 4 weeks, they might be feeling extra peckish, with a growth spurt around the corner.

And yep, even right after a feed, they may want more — it’s normal!

Babies know when they need a top-up, so trust those cues.

What should my 4-week-old baby be doing?

his week is full of exciting little wins in baby development at 4 weeks.

You’ll probably start seeing them hold their head up for a few seconds — just enough to make you proud (and maybe a little nervous!).

And here come those first little “fists of fury,” where they start clenching those hands, jerking their arms and legs, and experimenting with how their tiny body moves.

These moments? They’re some of the first 4-week-old milestones!

And get ready for even more cuteness.

Your baby is likely starting to recognize your face now!

You might notice them staring at you intently, eyes wide, and maybe even responding with a coo or two.

Thanks to improved vision and hearing, your little one is more excited to interact, and you’re officially their favorite person.

Soak up these moments — they’re the start of some seriously fun times ahead!

What is normal 4 week old behavior?

If you’re wondering what’s “normal,” let’s just say it’s a mix of sleepiness, intense staring, fussiness, and feeding marathons.

One moment, they’re giving you heart-melting eye contact, and the next, they’re protesting because you dared to put them down — all totally normal.

Your baby is still adjusting to the big, bright world, so expect plenty of naps — though they may be at unpredictable times — and lots of feeds.

Fussiness can be strong right now, too; if they seem extra clingy or want to be held constantly, they’re just seeking comfort and connection.

You may also spot little bursts of alertness where they’re staring intently at you or around the room, soaking up all the new sights and sounds.

How big is a 4 week old baby?

Most babies around 4 weeks weigh somewhere between 8 and 11 pounds, and they’re usually around 19 to 22 inches long.

But here’s the thing — babies come in all sorts shapes and sizes, so if your babe isn’t exactly in that range, don’t worry!

They’re growing at their own pace, and your doctor will let you know if there’s anything to keep an eye on.

What to expect at 4 weeks postpartum

Mamas can experience a wide range of feelings and emotions at this stage, and there really are no right or wrong ways to feel.

You’ve been through so much in the past year, and especially this past month.

It can be a lot to process.

If you can, take some time for yourself — even if it’s something small like taking a short bath, nibbling your favorite chocolate, or calling your Peanut BFF.

Taking your newborn out for a walk in the fresh air can also be really helpful for both of you, too.

👉 What else is going on? Your Ultimate Postpartum Recovery Guide

Why am I still bleeding at 4 weeks postpartum?

You might be surprised to know that it’s actually pretty common to still see bleeding at 4 weeks postpartum.

Your body is still working hard to heal after childbirth, and that includes clearing out any leftover tissue and healing your uterus.

This bleeding, called lochia, can stick around for a while, gradually lightening and changing from bright red to pinkish or even yellowish-brown before it finally stops. [4]

If you’re also experiencing cramping at 4 weeks postpartum, that’s usually your uterus contracting back to its pre-pregnancy size — a process that can take several weeks. [5]

These cramps are sometimes called “afterpains” and, while they can feel pretty intense (especially if you’re breastfeeding), they’re totally normal.

Of course, if the bleeding suddenly gets heavier or you notice large clots, or if the cramps become more intense rather than easing up, it’s worth checking in with your doctor.

Otherwise, trust that your body is working hard to wrap up this healing process — and give yourself some extra TLC along the way.

🤔 What’s going on down there? Postpartum Bleeding: What’s Normal and What’s Not

How to increase milk supply at 4 weeks postpartum?

Looking to boost that milk supply at 4 weeks postpartum?

First of all, you’re not alone — plenty of new mamas wonder if they’re producing enough, and your body is totally capable of getting a little extra flow going.

Here are a few tried-and-true tricks to help keep things flowing smoothly (but if you’re not sure, or these don’t seem to work, have a talk with your doctor, they’ll be able to help):

• Feed often: Your body works on a “supply and demand” system, so the more often you’re nursing or pumping, the more milk you’ll make. It might feel like your baby is permanently attached, but all those feeds are actually helping you out by giving your body the memo to keep producing.
• Hydrate like it’s your job: Hydration is a secret weapon for milk supply. So, grab that big water bottle, some coconut water, or whatever you love, and keep sipping. [6]
• Snacks, snacks, and more snacks: Yes, this is your official permission to grab another snack! Eating enough calories (think balanced meals, not skipping meals) is key to milk production. Oatmeal, nuts, and avocados are some great milk-making foods, so go on and treat yourself.
• Rest (when you can): Yes, we know, “rest with a newborn” sounds like a cruel joke, but even small pockets of downtime can make a difference. Being over-stressed or running on empty can mess with your supply, so grab a nap or a Netflix break whenever possible.

🤱 Want more tips? Is it Possible to Increase Breast Milk Supply?

Can I take a bath at 4 weeks postpartum?

Good news — by this time, most doctors give the green light for a bath, assuming you’re healing well and there are no complications.

However, before you dive in with the rubber ducky, it’s worth checking in with your healthcare provider, just to make sure.

They’ll let you know if everything’s healing as it should be and if you’re in the clear to take a dip.

Not only is it super relaxing (hello, much-needed me time), but a bath can also ease soreness and help you feel human again.

4 week old baby: your questions

By now, you’re a pro at the essentials — feeding, sleeping, diapering — but what about those weird questions?

The ones that just crop up every now and then, or when baby does something totally new and unexpected.

Don’t worry, mama. We’ve got you.

Is my baby a month old at 4 weeks?

*Sort of *****— technically, 4 weeks is 28 days, while most months have 30 or 31 days.

So, by the calendar, you’re just shy of that full “month” mark.

But it’s only a few days, so if you want to call them one month old, you do you, mama!

How far can my 4 week old see?

In short: not very far, but that’s okay — they’re perfectly tuned in for their main point of interest… you!

At this age, your baby’s vision is still in the close-up stage, meaning they can see best at about 8-12 inches away, or roughly the distance to your face when you’re holding them.

Beyond that, the world’s still a bit of a blur, but they’re slowly learning to focus and track objects.

High-contrast colours (black, white, and bold patterns) might catch their eye here and there, but for now, they’re all about faces.

My 4 week old baby hit their head, what do I do?

First things first — take a deep breath.

If your 4-week-old bumped their head, you’re not a terrible parent, and you’re definitely not alone.

Babies are surprisingly resilient little beings, even if it’s heart-stopping when they knock their noggin.

Here’s what to keep an eye on: if your baby seems totally unfazed, keeps feeding normally, and doesn’t show any signs of unusual fussiness or drowsiness, chances are they’re just fine.

You can gently check the area for any bumps or redness (which are usually no big deal), and, if they’ll let you, maybe hold a cool, soft cloth there to soothe things.

However, if they seem extra sleepy, are inconsolably fussy, or you notice anything out of the ordinary, it’s always worth checking in with your pediatrician for peace of mind.

Babies are tougher than they look, but you’re doing the right thing by being cautious.

Are 4 week old baby spit bubbles normal?

Yes, those tiny foamy bubbles your 4-week-old is suddenly blowing are totally normal.

Around this age, babies start discovering their mouths in new ways — cue the spit bubbles, drooling, and general wetness!

Spit bubbles are just a fun side effect of your babe’s developing saliva glands and mouth muscles.

It might not look like it, but that bubble-blowing is their way of practising mouth movements to gear them up for their first words!

Do babies get fussy at 4 weeks?

Oh, yes — around this time, babies often get a bit extra vocal and clingy — it’s like they just realized the world is big and slightly overwhelming.

This can mean more crying, wanting to be held constantly, and even some extra snack sessions if they’re in a growth spurt.

Is it normal for my 4 week old to be losing hair on top of head?

Yes, it’s completely normal for your 4-week-old to sport a bit of a disappearing hair act, especially on top.

Babies often lose some or even all of their newborn hair in the first few months — it’s called telogen effluvium (fancy name for “baby hair fallout”) and is totally common. [7]

This hair loss is due to hormonal changes as your baby adjusts to life outside the womb.

And don’t worry, it’s usually just temporary!

New hair will start growing back soon, and by a few months, they’ll be rocking a fresh new ‘do.

What happens in the 1-month checkup?

During baby’s first 1-month doctor’s visit, your doctor will do a full head-to-toe exam, checking all the tiny parts: reflexes, belly button, the works.

They may even give your baby the second hepatitis B shot, so get ready for some quick cuddles after that little poke.

And yes, they’ll want to know all about your baby’s habits—feeding, sleeping, and diaper output (which, by now, makes you a diaper expert).

Expect to discuss feed frequency, typically 8-12 nursing sessions or around 2-2.5 ounces of formula per pound in a day, and sleep, which is usually about 16-18 hours spread across a full day.

Your doc will check in on how you’re doing too.

New motherhood comes with its own set of challenges, and they’ve heard it all — no question is too small or too “silly” to bring up.

This is your time to ask anything, share how you’re feeling, and maybe snag some tips for those 3am wake-ups.

Congrats, mama!

You’ve made it through four whole weeks of feeding, diapering, snuggling, and navigating all those “Is this normal?” moments.

Your baby is changing fast, and so are you — adapting and learning every day.

Remember, each question, messy moment, and mini-milestone is part of the journey, and you’re doing an incredible job.

So, here’s to celebrating the small wins, embracing the unpredictability, and knowing you’ve got this. 💪

➡️ Up next: 5 Week Old Baby: Feeding, Care, Sleep & What to Expect