01 Olfactory Development
In addition to specific patterns and sounds, newborns also exhibit preferences for tastes and smells— they deeply inhale the scent of milk, vanilla, banana, or sugar, while wrinkling their noses at the smell of alcohol or vinegar.
Around one week old, breastfed newborns will turn their heads towards their mother's breast, but they show no response to the breasts of other lactating women. This radar-like system helps newborns locate the source of food while feeding and warns them to stay away from potential dangers.
02 Tactile Development
Newborns are sensitive not only to the texture of objects they touch but also to how their parents handle them. They gravitate towards soft fabrics and recoil from rough ones. If parents gently stroke them with their palms, they relax and become quiet; if handled roughly, they resist and start crying. Slow rocking motions soothe them and capture their attention. When upset, being held, caressed, rocked, and cuddled calm them down; when drowsy, these actions can also awaken them. This is because these actions clearly convey the parents' love and affection. Although newborns take a while to understand their parents' words, they can discern their emotions and feelings through touch.
Milestones in Olfactory and Tactile Development for Infants in the First Month
Preference for sweet tastes.
Dislike of bitter or sour tastes.
Able to recognize the scent of mother's milk.
Prefers soft objects over rough ones.