33 - 36 Weeks

• It is during the later part of this time frame that a baby may be able to maintain his/her own temperature.
• 30-60 breaths per minute may require mechanical ventilation.
• Heart rate 120-160
• May have periodic breathing or apnea (forget to breathe)
• During sleep infant is becoming more flexed. Infant kicks vigorously when awake. Movement becoming more smooth and controlled. Head may turn from midline to side.
• Starts using self comforting skills, i.e. sucking hands and position.
• Is able to resist movement some.
• Has more defined sleep/wake states. Sleeps more soundly. May wake before feeds.
• Is having continued improvement with lid tightening for light protection. Infant may focus on something for a period of time but quickly becomes over stimulated and may have some signs of disorganization. May have difficulty breaking a gaze on a stimulation object. Starts being able to track horizontally at about 35 weeks. Eyes movement still may appear uncoordinated.
• Behavior to sound becomes more individualized. Responses more consistent and organized.
• Skin remains delicate.
• Starts to tolerate more and different kinds of stimulation. i.e. stroking
• Begins to nipple feed
• Is capable to gentle social interaction. May become over stimulated with more then one kind of socialization at a time.
• Behavioral organization and self regulation really improving.