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

Here you are, seven weeks into this wild ride, probably feeling like you deserve a medal — or, at the very least, a hot cup of coffee that isn’t instantly forgotten and left to go cold.

At this stage, your babe is starting to tune in to the world with more intent.

You might catch them focusing on your face a little longer or throwing out the occasional gurgle that brings a tear to your eye. 🥹

But let’s be real: for every charming coo, there’s usually a burst of fussiness that makes you question if you’re reading the cues right at all.

While your 7 week old probably loves to throw some curveballs your way, know this: you’re doing great, mama.

And if you want to check a few things like feeding, sleeping, and development, we’ve got you covered.

In this article: 📝

What is a 7 week old baby routine?

A 7 week old’s routine is more of a rough outline than a strict schedule.

At this age, your baby’s day usually flows in cycles: wake, feed, change, a little play, and then back to sleep.

Just don’t be surprised if “routine” still feels pretty flexible; they could be eating more, sleeping less, eating less, sleeping, more, or doing something else that throws your schedule completely off.

So go with their cues rather than the clock, and trust that you’re doing a fantastic job, mama.

How long should a 7 week old be awake?

By now, their wake window is about 60-90 minutes at a time, so that’s your sweet spot for bonding, a quick feed, or tummy time (if they’re up for it!).

But this is a very rough guide — they could be awake for longer or less — 7 weeks old is prime time for a growth spurt, so they could be more or less alert during their wake windows.

How much tummy time at 7 weeks?

At 7 weeks, aim for around 15-20 minutes of tummy time each day, broken into short sessions (a couple of minutes here and there works great!). [1,2]

It’s all about building those little muscles, so no worries if they’re not a fan or only last a minute or two.

Every bit counts, and you’re doing an amazing job helping them grow stronger.

What should I be teaching my 7 week old baby?

Right now, “teaching” your baby is as simple as sharing little moments together — making eye contact, chatting, singing, and letting them explore gentle textures.

They’re absorbing so much from your voice, your smile, and those funny faces you make.

It’s less about “lessons” and more about baby learning through you — and learning that they’re loved is the most important lesson.

How do I bond with my 7 week old baby?

Bonding with your babe right now is about the little moment — those everyday things you do to care for them — those make them know they’re loved.

Cuddle up and let them snooze on your chest, chat away about anything, or try a little skin-to-skin time. [3,4,5]

Sing a lullaby, even if you’re a bit off-key; to them, you’re basically Beyoncé.

How do I know if my 7 week old is happy?

Babies have a pretty limited repertoire for expressing joy — think contented little coos, relaxed body language, and those fleeting half-smiles that make everything so much better.

If they’re calm after a feed, snuggling in, or gazing at you with wide, curious eyes, they’re probably feeling good vibes.

Of course, babies also have their fair share of fussiness, but that doesn’t mean they’re unhappy.

Often, they’re just processing the big, bright world around them — it’s all so new.

So, if you’re offering love, warmth, and making sure they’re cared for, they have all they need.

How many times should a 7 week old baby poop a day?

There’s no “one-size-fits-all” answer — some babies are on more of a “poop every meal” schedule, while others might go a day or even a few without a bowel movement.

For breastfed babies, anything from multiple poops a day to once every few days is normal, while formula-fed babies might lean toward a more regular routine.

The main thing to watch is comfort: if they’re not straining or showing signs of discomfort, they’re likely right on track, whatever their rhythm.

💩 Deciphering the diaper: Baby Poop: Your Expert Guide

Is green poop from a 7 week old normal?

Yes, green poop can be totally normal for your babe, and, believe it or not, it’s usually no big deal.

Sometimes green poop happens if baby’s getting more foremilk (the lighter, thirst-quenching stuff) and less hindmilk (the richer, fattier milk) during feeds.

It can also show up if they’re taking iron supplements or even just because of the natural digestive process. [6]

Unless it’s paired with other worrying signs — like fussiness, a big shift in their usual pooping pattern, or signs of discomfort — green is generally just part of the baby poop rainbow.

My 7 week old hasn’t pooped in 2 days, what do I do?

If your 7-week-old hasn’t pooped in two days, you’re not alone — poop patterns can vary widely depending on whether they’re breastfed, formula-fed, or a mix of both!

For breastfed babies, it’s common to go a few days without a bowel movement since they’re absorbing most of what they eat.

Some can even go up to a week without any action, which is usually totally normal.

Formula-fed babies tend to have a more regular poop routine, but a day or two without going isn’t necessarily a red flag, especially if they’re not showing signs of discomfort.

If your baby is combination-fed, you might see a mix of patterns — sometimes regular, sometimes with a bit more time between poops.

The key is watching for signs of comfort: if your babe isn’t straining, seems happy, and doesn’t have a hard, bloated belly, chances are they’re just fine.

A gentle tummy massage or some bicycle leg movements can help things along if they seem a bit backed up. [7]

And as always, if something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to check in with your pediatrician for peace of mind.

How much should a 7 week old sleep?

When it comes to sleep, 7-week-olds like to keep us on our toes with unpredictable patterns!

Wondering how long a 7-week-old should sleep at night?

Ideally, they’ll sleep in stretches of 2-4 hours, but every baby’s different, so if yours is waking frequently, that’s totally normal.

Some parents might get lucky with a 5-hour stretch now and then, but most are still a bit far from sleeping through the night consistently.

For a rough 7-week-old sleep schedule, they’re probably racking up 14-17 hours in a 24-hour period.

If it feels like your baby is sleeping all day, you’re not alone!

Newborns are pros at snoozing, though they should have some short awake periods to eat, cuddle, and gaze around.

And yes, if they’re extra sleepy after a busy day or growth spurt, it’s usually fine — just keep an eye on those diaper counts and feeds to be sure they’re still well-fed.

You might catch your 7-week-old laughing in their sleep, or they could also be snoring, which is common due to tiny nasal passages.

A bit of white noise never hurts if the snoring gets loud enough to keep you awake (oh, the irony).

😴 Baby catching some zzzs? Newborn Sleep Schedule by Week: What to Expect

Should a 7 week old have a bedtime?

Right now, your babe is still figuring out the whole “day vs. night” concept.

Their internal clocks aren’t fully synched, so expecting them to settle into a strict schedule might lead to more frustration than sleep.

But starting a small bedtime routine can help baby recognize when to power down for the night — something you’ll be eternally grateful for as they grow up.

It’s never too early to start with something simple — maybe a little cuddle, a lullaby, or a gentle back rub.

Why is my 7 week old sleeping so much?

If your 7-week-old is suddenly sleeping a ton, don’t panic — it’s likely just a growth spurt!

Babies often need extra shut-eye to fuel all that development.

And if you’ve got a 7-week-old breastfed baby sleeping through the night, it can be normal as they start to stretch out sleep.

As long as they’re eating well during the day and having enough wet diapers, it’s all good — but if you’re concerned, have a chat with your pediatrician.

Why is my 7 week old not sleeping?

If your 7-week-old won’t nap, only sleeps when held, or seems to be fighting sleep, you’re definitely not alone!

Babies at this stage can be real sleep dodgers, taking short naps and often crying when put down.

Typical nap lengths vary, with lots of catnaps being normal, so try not to stress.

Keep things calm and consistent, but go easy on yourself — it’s all part of their learning curve.

Soon enough, they’ll start settling into longer stretches.

For now, hang in there; this phase is temporary!

Is there a 7 week sleep regression?

Well, there’s no official 7-week sleep regression, but it can definitely feel like one!

Around now, babies start becoming more alert, which can mess with their sleep.

If they’re suddenly resisting naps or waking more often, it’s likely just a developmental leap.

How to get 7 week old to sleep longer at night

Getting a 7-week-old to sleep longer at night is the dream, right?

At this age, sleep training is still a ways off, but there are some gentle tricks to encourage longer stretches:

• Create a calming bedtime routine: A quick cuddle, soft lullaby, or gentle rocking can signal it’s time to wind down.
• Dim the lights: Keeping things low-lit at night helps their body start to learn the difference between day and night.
• Try a swaddle: Many babies feel more secure with a light swaddle, which can help them stay asleep.
• Feed right before bed: A full tummy can sometimes lead to longer stretches, so offer a good feed before putting them down.
• Limit day naps to encourage night sleep: Try to keep daytime naps to around 1.5-2 hours where possible to help them build a night sleep rhythm.
• Keep night interactions low-key: During night feedings or changes, stay quiet and soothing to avoid overstimulation.
• Introduce some white noise: A white noise machine or app can help soothe them to sleep by mimicking the sounds they heard in the womb.

Should I wake my 7 week old to feed?

If they’re gaining well and your doctor approves, let them snooze!

If your 7-week-old is sleeping more and eating less at night, that’s fine; they might be settling into a natural rhythm.

Just make sure they’re eating enough during the day, and check in with your doctor first.

How much should 7 week old eat?

Most 7-week-olds eat every 2-3 hours, taking in about 2-4 ounces per feed if bottle-fed, or nursing for 15-30 minutes.

But every baby’s unique!

If your babe’s suddenly eating less, they might just be getting more efficient.

And if they’re cluster feeding (like eating every hour!), especially in the evenings, it’s normal — they’re stocking up or soothing.

For a rough feeding schedule, aim for about 8-12 feeds in 24 hours, whether it’s breast milk or formula.

Trust their cues, and reach out to your pediatrician if you need reassurance.

🍼 Feeling peckish? Newborn Baby Feeding Schedule: How Often is Enough?

How long can a 7 week old go between feedings?

Typically, babies this age can handle around 2-4 hours between meals, depending on their hunger and energy levels.

During the day, expect shorter gaps as they fuel up, while at night, they might surprise you with a longer stretch (fingers crossed!).

Some babies love a snack every two hours, while others can stretch it out a bit.

Just remember, those tiny tummies don’t hold much, so if they’re looking for a top-up sooner than expected, it’s totally normal.

Am I overfeeding my 7 week old baby?

It’s pretty hard to overfeed a baby at this stage.

Babies are experts at regulating their intake — they’ll let you know when they’re full by pulling away, turning their head, or giving that classic milk-drunk expression.

If they’re hungry, they’ll also let you know, and by now, you’re probably pretty familiar with their hunger cues, like rooting and crying. [8]

What should a 7 week old be able to do?

At 7 weeks, your baby is starting to explore the world in their own adorable ways, but don’t worry if they’re not hitting every “milestone” yet — they’re on their own timeline!

Right now, you might notice a few cute tricks, like sticking their tongue out or tracking your face a bit more closely.

Some are even starting to flash little smiles, but if your 7-week-old isn’t smiling yet, that’s perfectly normal, too.

Babies roll out these milestones when they’re ready, no rush — and it’s still very early days.

Each day, they’re growing stronger, getting more curious, and keeping you on your toes.

Does a 7 week old baby recognize mom?

Absolutely! Your 7-week-old is beginning to recognise their favourite person — you!

They may not fully grasp the “mom” concept yet, but they know your voice, scent, and touch, and might even calm down when you’re near.

Right now, they can see around 8-12 inches clearly — just enough to focus on your face when you’re holding them. [9]

Is there a growth spurt at 7 weeks?

Yes, there’s a 7-week growth spurt!

Many babies suddenly get extra hungry, clingy, and maybe a bit fussier.

This intense eating and snuggling phase helps them fuel up for growth and new skills.

It usually lasts a few days, so hang in there!

What is normal behavior for a 7 week old baby?

You might notice them alternating between wide-eyed wonder and sudden meltdowns, often with no warning.

They’re likely eating every couple of hours, snoozing in short stretches, and occasionally treating you to a gummy half-smile that makes the sleepless nights worth it.

Fussiness is also par for the course as they’re adjusting to their rapidly growing bodies and brains.

Some babies may demand constant snuggles, while others are happy being by themselves every now and then — they’re all different!

What to expect at 7 weeks postpartum

At 7 weeks postpartum, you’re balancing baby life with healing — probably powered by caffeine.

Physically, you may still feel some tenderness and fatigue, and emotionally, the hormones are still in full swing (tears over cute baby socks? Normal!).

You might feel a bit more energy creeping in, but don’t stress about “getting back to normal” — your new normal is evolving, and that’s okay.

Sleep might be scarce, but tiny routines with your baby are probably starting to emerge.

Celebrate every little win, take self-care where you can, and remember, you’re doing an amazing job!

🫶 You’ve got this: Your Ultimate Postpartum Recovery Guide

Why am I still bleeding at 7 weeks postpartum?

till bleeding at 7 weeks postpartum? Totally normal for some!

Lochia can stick around, sometimes stopping and starting, as your body heals. [10]

If it’s just light bleeding or spotting, hang in there — your body’s doing its thing.

But if you notice heavy bleeding or large clots, give your doctor a call to be safe.

Why am I cramping at 7 weeks postpartum?

If you’re still cramping at 7 weeks postpartum, it’s likely your body’s final touches on healing, with your uterus still shrinking back to size.

Hormones, breastfeeding, or getting active can trigger these “afterpains”, and they’re usually harmless.

But if cramps are intense or feel unusual, check in with your doctor.

7 week old baby: your questions

Still got questions about your 7 week old?

Don’t worry, mama, we’ve got your back.

Why is my baby so fussy at 7 weeks?

If your 7-week-old is suddenly fussy day and night, it’s likely due to a growth spurt or developmental leap.

They’re noticing more around them, which can be both exciting and overwhelming!

This newfound awareness might make them crave extra comfort and refuse naps.

Try soothing with swaddling, rocking, or white noise – this phase will pass, and you’re doing great!

Why is my 7 week old drooling?

If your 7-week-old is drooling, blowing bubbles, and chewing on their hands, it’s all part of normal development!

Around this age, they start producing more saliva and love exploring with their hands – not necessarily a hunger cue, just sensory exploration.

The extra drool and occasional spitting up are totally typical.

My 7 week old sounds congested, what do I do?

If your 7-week-old sounds congested or has a stuffy nose, it’s usually nothing serious – just tiny nasal passages doing their thing!

There are some things you can try — with the go-ahead from your pediatrician — like saline drops, a gentle nasal aspirator, and a cool-mist humidifier to ease congestion. [11]

And, of course, extra cuddles go a long way.

But if symptoms worsen or there’s a fever, check in with your pediatrician, to be on the safe side.

What do I do if my 7 week old has a fever?

If your 7-week-old’s temperature hits 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, it’s considered a fever – go ahead and call your pediatrician. [12]

In the meantime, keep baby comfy in light clothes, offer extra cuddles, and avoid meds unless advised

Make a note of any other symptoms, like fussiness, red skin, spitting up more, and the consistency of their poop — it sounds excessive, but it means your pediatrician can get a better under standing of what’s going on.

A lot of the time, fevers can come and go relatively quickly, but it’s always best to check in with your doctor, just in case.

Between feedings, sleep routines, and those big developmental leaps, you’re handling it all like a pro.

Some days feel great, others more chaotic – but that’s all part of the journey with a 7 week old baby.

Keep trusting your instincts, soaking up those cuddles, and remember, you’re doing an amazing job. 🫶

➡️ Up next: 8 Week Old Baby: What to Expect