A 2 month old baby is becoming more active than a newborn but still has limited interaction with people and usually sleeps about 16 hours a day. Sleep patterns vary, some babies sleep lightly and wake often, while others have longer, more restful periods of sleep.
At this age, babies begin to hold their heads up more steadily and can lift their heads when placed on their stomachs. They are also starting to recognize certain sounds and follow people’s movements with their eyes, becoming more curious about what’s happening around them.
Feeding should be exclusively with breast milk, given on demand, whenever the baby wants to nurse. If breastfeeding is not possible or desired, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using infant formula as advised by a pediatrician.
2 month old milestones include smiling in response to familiar voices or faces, making soft cooing sounds, playing with their fingers, and moving their arms and legs more frequently.
Each baby develops at their own pace, so sleep habits, speech, and playtime can vary. If you have any concerns about your baby’s development, it’s best to consult a pediatrician.
Baby growth chart
The following table shows the normal range of weight and other growth parameters for 2 month old babies according to the World Health Organization (WHO):
If your baby’s measurements fall above or below these ranges, talk to a pediatrician to evaluate their growth and development.
Sleep patterns
A 2 month old baby usually sleeps 14 to 16 hours a day and may wake up two to three times at night because of hunger or a wet or dirty diaper.
Some babies may confuse day and night. To help establish healthy sleep habits, you can:
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Keep the room dark during nighttime sleep, using curtains or shades;
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Avoid letting the baby sleep in the parents’ bed;
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Offer the last feeding right before bedtime;
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If the baby wakes up too early, keep them in the crib for a few minutes to encourage more sleep.
It’s also helpful to follow the same bedtime routine every night so the baby learns when it’s time to rest. Over time, overnight sleep may start to last for longer stretches, although frequent waking is still normal at this age.
Feeding guidelines
According to pediatric guidelines, a 2 month old baby’s diet should consist only of breast milk, offered on demand. Exclusive breastfeeding should continue until 6 months of age, since breast milk provides all the nutrients and hydration a baby needs.
If breastfeeding isn’t possible, infant formula should be used under pediatric guidance, following recommendations for the specific type and amount.
Babies who drink formula should not be given additional water, as all their hydration needs are met through properly prepared formula or breast milk. Additional water is only recommended after 6 months of age.
2 month old milestones
At 2 months, babies are still fairly inactive but start to hold their heads up better when placed on their stomachs for tummy time.
Crying is their main way to communicate needs such as hunger, tiredness, a dirty diaper, discomfort, or the desire for attention. Around this time, babies also begin to smile in response to familiar voices, make cooing sounds, and show more interest in their surroundings.
Their vision is still blurry, but bright colors attract their attention, and they can follow movements with their eyes. Parents can stimulate visual and motor development by gently moving colorful toys or talking softly while maintaining eye contact.
Vaccine schedule
At 2 months, it’s important for babies to receive the vaccines included in the standard immunization schedule, which usually includes:
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The first dose of the inactivated poliovirus (IPV) vaccine;
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The first dose of the DTaP combination vaccine (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis);
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The first dose of the Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine;
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The first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine (if not given earlier);
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The first dose of the rotavirus vaccine;
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The first dose of the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV15 or PCV20), which protects against pneumonia, otitis media, meningitis, and other pneumococcal infections.
Consult your pediatrician to confirm the vaccination schedule and ensure all doses are given on time.
Play and stimulation
Playtime is very important for a 2 month old baby because it supports healthy development and strengthens the bond with parents or caregivers. Gentle activities such as singing, talking softly, or massaging the baby after a bath can be very soothing and stimulating.
To encourage visual development, hang colorful mobiles or soft toys near the crib (but out of reach) or in the baby’s play area. Make eye contact, speak calmly, and smile while interacting to promote communication and emotional connection.
Babies can also go for short daily walks in open, well-ventilated areas such as parks or gardens. Outdoor time should be before 10 a.m. or after 5 p.m., when the sun is less strong.