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Behaviour/development

Talk to others about child development and behaviour stages here. You can find more information on our development calendar.

Not smiling yet

3 replies

Sleepycat91 · 10/02/2020 17:35

DD was born at 35+1, good weight of 5lb 4oz but dropped to 4lb 4oz and had to have major bowel surgery and spent 3 weeks in NICU. Shes 10 weeks now and around 9lb (getting her weighed this week) but shes still not smiling. She looks amused by certain things and if she knows shes having a shower she gets excited and can see her eyes sparkling. She still sleeps ALOT, is probably awake couple of hours over the course of the day, tops. She copies us, tongue out etc, makes a few coo-y noises, will look at us and likes looking at lights/walls/pictures etc. When she is awake, we talk to her, sing songs and interact as much as we can when she is awake. She does massive great big grins in her sleep and does an amused/ half smile look. I know shes likely to be behind and i was worrying a few weeks ago but family and DP all talked me down and said shes fine. Now my mums back tracked, said DD looked blank all the time and maybe i should talk to HV. Im upset by this and panicking again😔

OP posts:
JiltedJohnsJulie · 11/02/2020 21:34

From what you say, she seems to be interacting with you. She is only really 35 weeks now and she’s been through a lot already.

It might be worth though asking MNHQ to move this to the Premature Birth Section. Some of the lovely, experienced MNers in there should be able to give you some reassurance Smile

LuckiestB · 18/03/2020 09:16

Have a look at getting the wonder weeks app - I was also worried about my baby’s development, until the app explained when they’re premature they still have those weeks to develop that would have been in the womb. So my ‘6 week’ old baby was only at week 3/4 of development and he did everything he should have been doing by the time the app predicted. It is based on due date, not birth date for premature babies. Sounds like you’re doing everything right, have faith. She’s only tiny and she’s had a hard time, I really hope she gives you a grin soon - I am still waiting for my smiles too but the app has given me another 2 week window before I start worrying. My health visitor recommended it.

Gobbycop · 19/03/2020 09:10

Sounds like she's been through so much.

Give her a big hug from me, the smiles will be just around the corner I'm sure.

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