Babies typically transition from being called a "newborn" to being called an "infant" at varying times, as there isn't a strict, universally agreed-upon definition. Here's a breakdown:
Defining "Newborn" and "Infant"
Understanding the terms "newborn" and "infant" is key to answering the question.
- Newborn: According to the reference, a baby is often called a newborn if they are under 28 days old, or up to 3 months old. Note that this is not a set definition.
- Infant: The term "baby" or "infant" can be used from birth up to about 1 year of age.
The Transition
Based on this information, we can infer the following:
- Overlap: There's an overlap in the terms. While a baby may be called a newborn for up to 3 months, they are also considered an infant from birth onwards.
- No Exact Age: There is no exact age at which a baby stops being a newborn and is only referred to as an infant. Instead, the terms are often used somewhat interchangeably in the first few months.
- Practical Use: The term "newborn" tends to be used most often in the very early days and weeks of a baby's life, highlighting their fragility and immediate care needs. The term "infant" is then used to describe a baby during the entire first year.
Summary
| Term | Age Range | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Newborn | Typically under 28 days to 3 months (no single definition) | Very young; often needing specific newborn care |
| Infant | From birth up to around 1 year of age | Developing rapidly, milestones include rolling, sitting, and crawling. |
Key Points to Remember
- The terms "newborn" and "infant" are not precise, with an overlap in usage.
- A baby is an infant from birth to about one year old.
- A baby is referred to as a newborn for a few weeks to a few months after birth.
