Newborns Are Weird: 10 Unusual Baby Behaviours Explained!
Newborns are weird. There, I said it.
One minute they’re snoozing like a cherub, the next they’re making noises that sound like an angry goat.
If you’ve ever stared at your baby, wondering if they’re broken or if you should Google “weird newborn things” at 2 a.m., this blog is for you.
As a maternity and newborn photographer in Brisbane, I’ve seen and heard it all from parents wondering if their baby’s strange behaviours are normal.
So, let’s break it down and reassure you that your little one is just fine.
1. Hiccups for No Reason
Your baby gets hiccups all the time, even when they’re not drinking milk. It’s just their diaphragm getting used to life outside the womb. Annoying? Yes. Harmful? Not at all. Hiccups are a sign of a developing nervous system and can even happen while your baby is still in utero! If hiccups seem excessive, try burping your baby more often during feeds or changing their position to help release trapped air. Most of the time, they’ll go away on their own, and there’s no need to intervene. However, if hiccups last longer than usual or seem to interfere with feeding, a little break between feeds and a gentle back rub can sometimes help settle things down.
2. Weird Noises While Sleeping
Grunting, snorting, whimpering—newborns sound like tiny farm animals at night. Their airways are still developing, and they’re figuring out how to breathe efficiently. Unlike adults, babies breathe through their noses more often, which can make them sound congested. You might even hear little squeaks and gurgles, which can be alarming at first. Keeping their sleep environment clear of dust, using a humidifier, and ensuring they’re sleeping in a slightly upright position after feeds can sometimes help. If your baby sounds persistently wheezy or struggles to breathe, a quick check-up with your doctor is a good idea.
3. Random Jerky Movements (Startle Reflex)
If your baby suddenly flails their arms like they’ve been launched into space, don’t panic. It’s called the Moro reflex, and it’s just their way of adjusting to not being snug inside your belly. This reflex is a sign that their nervous system is working properly, and it usually disappears by around three to six months. Swaddling your baby before sleep can help reduce the impact of these sudden movements, ensuring they stay comfortable and don’t wake themselves up as frequently. As a newborn photographer in Brisbane, I always make sure babies are wrapped snugly for comfort in their photo sessions—something parents can do at home to help their little ones feel secure.
4. Crossed Eyes
Sometimes their eyes go a little wonky because their eye muscles are still strengthening. If it happens occasionally, it’s totally fine. Babies are still learning how to control their eye movements, and it’s common for them to appear cross-eyed or for their eyes to wander. This usually resolves by the time they’re three to four months old. However, if one eye consistently turns in or out, it’s best to consult a paediatrician or optometrist just to be sure there are no underlying vision issues. Many parents worry about how their baby will look in photos, but trust me—by the time they’re a few months old, those little eyes will be perfectly coordinated.
5. The Poop Faces
Newborns look dramatic when they poop. Red face, grunting, sometimes even crying. It’s not because they’re in pain—it’s just a workout for their tiny digestive system. Their abdominal muscles are still developing, so pushing out a bowel movement takes effort. If the stool is soft and they’re feeding normally, there’s nothing to worry about. If they seem truly distressed or their stools become hard, it could indicate constipation, in which case offering extra feeds or a warm bath can help ease things along. And if you’re worried about newborn poop explosions ruining your Brisbane newborn photography session—don’t be! It happens all the time, and we’re well prepared.
6. Sneezing (A Lot)
Nope, they’re not sick. Babies sneeze to clear their tiny nostrils from dust, fluff, or milk residue. Since newborns primarily breathe through their noses, sneezing helps keep their airways clear. You may notice they sneeze more after feeds or when exposed to sudden temperature changes. If there’s no fever or congestion, frequent sneezing is just part of their body’s natural cleaning process. However, if you notice persistent coughing, wheezing, or a blocked nose, it may be worth checking in with your doctor.
7. Breast Buds & Mini Periods (in Girls)
Thanks to leftover pregnancy hormones, some newborns (boys and girls!) have swollen breast tissue. Baby girls can even have a tiny, temporary period—yep, hormones strike again! This can be a little shocking for parents, but it’s completely harmless and will go away within a few weeks. The swelling and spotting happen because your baby was exposed to your hormones in the womb, but as their hormone levels stabilise, these effects disappear on their own.
8. Baby Acne & Peeling Skin
You’d think babies would have flawless skin, right? Nope. Newborn acne and peeling skin are totally normal as they shed their “womb coat.” Their skin is adjusting to the outside world, so just keep it clean and let it do its thing. Avoid using harsh soaps or lotions, and instead opt for gentle, fragrance-free baby products. The acne should clear up on its own within a few weeks, while the peeling skin is just their way of transitioning from the protective amniotic fluid to life outside the womb.
9. Shivering or Quivering Chins
Newborns sometimes have shaky legs or quivery chins, especially when they’re crying. This is just their immature nervous system kicking in—it usually sorts itself out within a few months. It doesn’t necessarily mean they’re cold or uncomfortable; it’s simply a sign that their brain and muscles are still learning to work together. If the trembling is persistent even when they’re calm, or if you notice stiff limbs or unusual movements, it’s worth mentioning to your doctor just to rule out any concerns.
10. Head Bobbing While Feeding
If your baby looks like they’re doing the world’s tiniest headbanging session while trying to latch, don’t stress. It’s just their way of searching for the nipple. They’ll get better at it with time. This instinctive movement, called the rooting reflex, helps them find food even when they’re half-asleep. If they seem frustrated or struggle to latch, gently guiding them to the nipple can help. As they grow and develop better head control, this behaviour will naturally phase out.
Newborns are full of surprises, but rest assured—most of their quirks are completely normal.
If you're looking for a trusted newborn photographer in Brisbane to capture these precious early days, get in touch. I specialise in maternity and baby photography, ensuring you have beautiful memories of this fleeting stage.
Parenthood is a whirlwind, but these little moments are worth remembering forever. Let’s create something special together!
FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER BISBANE | NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHER BRISBANE
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