Becoming a parent is a journey filled with surprises, especially when it comes to your precious newborn. From their unique capabilities to their fascinating behaviors, here are six surprising facts every parent should know about their newborn.

 

1. Perfect Vision at Birth:

Contrary to popular belief, newborns aren't born with blurry vision. In fact, they have pretty impressive eyesight right from the start. While they might not see colors as vividly as adults, they can distinguish between high-contrast patterns and even focus on objects just a foot away from their face. This is nature's way of helping them bond with their caregivers.

 

2. Baby's Cries Speak Volumes:

Your baby's cries might seem like a mystery, but they are actually a powerful means of communication. Research has shown that different cries correspond to different needs. For example, a hungry cry might sound different from a tired cry. Over time, parents become experts at deciphering these cues, strengthening the parent-child bond.

 

3. They Have Reflexes Galore:

Newborns are equipped with a range of reflexes that serve as protective mechanisms. The Moro reflex, for instance, causes them to startle and spread their arms when they feel a sudden jolt. These reflexes gradually fade as your baby grows and their nervous system matures. Your baby actually likes the swaddle. Swaddling is a time-tested practice that provides comfort, security, and improved sleep for your baby. When done correctly and with safety in mind, it can be a valuable tool in your parenting toolkit.

 

4. Babies Are Born with a Grasp Reflex:

Ever noticed how your newborn wraps their tiny fingers around yours? That's because they're born with a grasp reflex that allows them to cling to objects placed in their palms. It's not just about holding your finger; it's their way of seeking comfort and connection.

 

5. Baby's Taste Buds are Developed:

Newborns have a well-developed sense of taste. They can differentiate between sweet and bitter flavors, often showing a preference for sweetness. This is an evolutionary trait that likely helps them seek out breastmilk, which is naturally sweet.
Even before birth, your baby is exposed to the flavors of the foods you eat. Amniotic fluid can carry the essence of the foods you consume, allowing your baby to get a taste (literally) of what's on your plate. This early exposure can influence their taste preferences later in life.

When the time comes to start introducing solid foods (usually around six months), embrace the opportunity to expand your baby's palate. Begin with single-ingredient, mild-flavored foods like mashed bananas, sweet potatoes, or avocados. Gradually introduce new tastes, textures, and combinations.

 

6. Sleep Cycles are Rapid:

Newborns have a unique sleep pattern characterized by rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Unlike adults who spend most of their sleep in non-REM stages, babies spend almost 50% of their slumber in REM. This is thought to be essential for brain development and learning.

 

Conclusion:

Celebrating New Beginnings Understanding these surprising facts about your newborn can help you appreciate the incredible journey of early parenthood even more. Embrace these moments of discovery, and remember that each day brings new surprises and joys. Your newborn is a unique individual, and as you get to know them, your bond will deepen, and your love will grow stronger with each passing day.

 

Source:

huggies.co

motherandbaby.com