10 Interesting Facts About Newborn Babies

Babies are tiny bundles of wonder, and even though they can’t talk or walk yet, they do some pretty amazing things right from birth! Here are 10 fun and simple facts about newborns that might surprise you.

1. They Recognize Your Voice Immediately  

Even before birth, babies start listening to their mother’s voice in the womb. By the time they’re born, they can recognize and prefer their mom’s voice over others!

2. Newborns Have Super Strong Grips

If you’ve ever placed your finger in a baby’s palm, you’ve probably noticed their tight grip. This is called the palmar grasp reflex, and it’s so strong that some newborns can even support their own weight for a few seconds!

3. They Cry Without Tears (At First)

Newborns cry a lot, but for the first few weeks, their tear ducts aren’t fully developed. So, when they cry, there are usually no actual tears—just lots of noise!

4. Babies Are Born with More Bones Than Adults

Adults have 206 bones, but babies are born with around 300 bones! Over time, some of these bones fuse together (like the skull), which is why the number decreases as they grow.

5. They Can Sleep with Their Eyes Open

Yes, really! Some newborns doze off with their eyes partially open, which can look a little spooky but is completely normal.

6. Newborns Have a Favorite Smell

Studies show that babies love the scent of breast milk—and not just because it means food! They can also recognize their mother’s unique smell within days of being born.

7. They Sneeze… A Lot

Newborns sneeze frequently, not because they’re sick, but because their tiny noses are clearing out dust, lint, or milk residue. It’s their way of keeping their airways clean!

8. They Prefer Black & White (For Now)

Newborns see best in high-contrast colors like black and white because their vision is still developing. Bright colors and pastels become more interesting as they grow.

9. They Can’t Taste Salt Yet

Babies are born with taste buds for sweet, sour, and bitter flavors—but they can’t taste salt until around 4-5 months old!

10. They Breathe Really Fast

An adult takes about 12-20 breaths per minute, but a newborn breathes 40-60 times per minute! Their tiny lungs are still learning how to work efficiently.

Newborns may seem small and helpless, but they’re full of surprises! From their super-strong grip to their tearless cries, every little thing they do is fascinating.