When Will My Baby Smile?
You may see Baby do “reflex smiles” before their first real smile comes out around 6 to 8 weeks old.
Encourage your newborn to smile by giving them lots of cuddles, playing with them, and smiling at them lots!
After smiling comes cooing, babbling, and eventually giggling!
Is there a better sight than a happy, smiling baby? We think not! Wondering “when will my baby smile for the first time”?
Typically, babies start smiling between 6 and 8 weeks old, but you may notice a reflex smile or smirk soon after Baby’s born.
What is a reflex smile?
This early “smile” is a common infant reflex that starts before birth and continues through the newborn months. It’s usually the result of something internal, such as gas. Since they happen without Baby trying, reflex smiles aren’t considered the real thing. But both are signs of healthy baby development!
Reflex smiling typically stops around 2 months after birth, right around the same time you can expect Baby’s first real smile.
Infant Reflex Smiles vs. Real Smiles: How to Tell the Difference
A reflex smile is short and occurs randomly, like when Baby’s sleeping or going to the bathroom. A real smile happens in response to something external, like hearing mom’s voice or seeing dad.
The biggest difference? Baby’s whole face lights up when it’s a real smile. Believe us, you’ll be able to tell!
Tips to Encourage Your Baby's First Smile
Give them plenty of love and affection. Baby will respond to cuddles, kisses, and a sweet, high-pitched voice.
Play with them. Games like peek-a-boo will surprise and delight Baby, plus they’re great for brain development.
Put on a happy face. Babies imitate the people around them, so start smiling like you’ve never smiled before!
What Comes After Smiling: Next Developmental Steps
Beyond the cuteness explosion you can expect when Baby starts smiling around 6 to 8 weeks, it’s also an exciting time for their development. Baby’s vision and facial recognition is improving, and they’re outgrowing their early reflexes. They’re also beginning to express feelings, such as excitement or contentment.
Once Baby has smiling down, they’ll start cooing (making speech sounds similar to vowels). After cooing comes babbling, then giggling. Eventually, Baby will launch into full on laughing fits!
See activities to help Baby meet infant social development milestones!
If your baby isn’t smiling yet…
…there’s probably no need to worry. It could just be their personality—every baby is different! That said, you should let your healthcare provider know any concerns, especially if Baby does not communicate with you or other caregivers through sounds and expressions by 4 months or older.
