That gummy grin is pure magic! But when do babies start smiling? Get ready to be enchanted, because there are actually two types of smiles to watch out for.
**Reflex Smiles:** These fleeting expressions can appear right from birth, even in their sleep. They're involuntary responses and not true social smiles.
**Social Smiles:** The real deal! Usually emerging between **6 and 12 weeks**, these smiles are a delightful response to you – your voice, your face, your loving touch. It’s their way of saying, "I see you, I love you!"
**Encouraging Those Smiles:** Talk to your baby, sing songs, make silly faces! The more you interact, the more opportunities you create for those social smiles to blossom. Don't worry if your little one is a bit later; every baby develops at their own pace. If you have concerns, chat with your pediatrician. But get ready – once those smiles start, they're truly contagious!
