👶 Newborn
Your 2-month-old baby
First smiles and longer gazes
By Emma Whitfield · Pregnancy & Baby Writer
Development at 2 months
Around 6–8 weeks many babies give their first real social smile — a huge milestone. They hold their head a little steadier during tummy time, follow moving objects with their eyes, and start making cooing sounds.
Feeding
Feeding is often more efficient now. A growth spurt around 6 weeks can mean a day or two of extra-frequent feeding — this is normal and helps build milk supply if breastfeeding.
Sleep
Some babies start to sleep a slightly longer stretch at night, though waking to feed is still normal and expected. Keep bedtime calm and dark to slowly encourage a day/night difference.
Play & connection
Smile and chat back when your baby coos — this "serve and return" is how early communication and bonding develop. A baby-safe mirror and rattles they can watch are good additions.
Focus this month
Your baby is due their first set of vaccinations at 8 weeks (12 weeks and 16 weeks follow). You may be invited to a routine health visitor review around now too.
When to check in
Mention it to your health visitor if your baby is not making eye contact at all, seems very floppy or very stiff, or is not startled by loud sounds — but remember smiling can take until 8 weeks or a little beyond.
Your 2-month-old baby: common questions
What should a 2-month-old baby be doing?
Around 6–8 weeks many babies give their first real social smile — a huge milestone. They hold their head a little steadier during tummy time, follow moving objects with their eyes, and start making cooing sounds. Remember this is a typical range — healthy babies reach milestones at very different times.
How much should a 2-month-old baby sleep?
Some babies start to sleep a slightly longer stretch at night, though waking to feed is still normal and expected. Keep bedtime calm and dark to slowly encourage a day/night difference.
What should I feed a 2-month-old baby?
Feeding is often more efficient now. A growth spurt around 6 weeks can mean a day or two of extra-frequent feeding — this is normal and helps build milk supply if breastfeeding.
Sources & further reading
- Baby — development and milestones — NHS Start for Life
- Safer sleep advice — The Lullaby Trust
This is general information, not medical advice — every baby develops differently and the ranges here are typical, not targets. Your health visitor and the NHS red book are your personal sources of truth. If you're ever worried about your baby's development, health or feeding, speak to your health visitor or GP. Reviewed July 2026.