Newborn
Your 2-month-old baby
First smiles and longer gazes
By Clever Mum Parenting · Parenting guides
·
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.
How much should a 2-month-old baby feed?
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.
How much does 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.
How can you play with a 2-month-old baby?
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.
What should you focus on at 2 months?
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.
Vaccinations around 2 months
At 8 weeks your baby is offered their first vaccinations: the 6-in-1, MenB and rotavirus vaccines. The NHS advises liquid infant paracetamol after the MenB vaccine. See the full NHS vaccination schedule.
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. Last updated 12 August 2026.