Congratulations! Your baby is 4 months old now. Time flies so fast, and it’s amazing how much your little one has grown since birth. At this stage, your baby is becoming more active, curious, and interactive with the world around them. Here are some of the 4 months old baby development milestones that you can expect to see:
Table of Contents
Physical Development
Your baby has been developing their physical abilities since birth, and at 4 months old, they are making significant progress. They have more control over their head and neck, and they can lift their head up while lying on their belly. They can also roll over from their tummy to their back or vice versa. Your baby may also start to reach for objects, grasp them, and bring them to their mouth. They are also getting stronger and will push up on their arms while lying on their tummy.
Cognitive Development
At 4 months old, your baby’s cognitive skills are also improving. They are becoming more aware of their surroundings and can recognize familiar faces and voices. They may also start to recognize their own name and turn their head towards the sound of it. Your baby is also learning cause and effect – if they kick a toy, it will move, and if they shake a rattle, it will make noise.
Social and Emotional Development
Your baby is becoming more social and interactive with the people around them. They may start to smile at familiar faces and engage in “conversation” by cooing and babbling. They are also learning to express their emotions, and you may notice that they cry less and smile more. Your baby may also start to show a preference for certain toys or activities.
Sleep and Feeding
At 4 months old, your baby’s sleep and feeding patterns may start to change. They may sleep for longer stretches at night (hooray!), but they may also become more distracted during feeding and may want to feed more frequently during the day. It’s important to continue to follow your baby’s lead and feed them on demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much should a 4 months old baby weigh?
A: On average, a 4 months old baby weighs between 12 to 16 pounds.
Q: When should a 4 months old baby start to sit up?
A: Most 4 months old babies are not able to sit up unsupported yet, but they may start to prop themselves up for a few seconds with their arms while sitting with support.
Q: What toys are suitable for a 4 months old baby?
A: Soft toys, rattles, teething toys, and board books with bright colors and simple pictures are great options for a 4 months old baby.
Q: How often should a 4 months old baby be fed?
A: A 4 months old baby should be fed on demand, which means whenever they are hungry. Most babies at this age will want to feed every 2 to 3 hours during the day.
Q: When should I be concerned if my 4 months old baby is not meeting these milestones?
A: Every baby develops at their own pace, so it’s not uncommon for some babies to reach milestones later than others. However, if you are concerned about your baby’s development, it’s important to talk to your pediatrician. They can assess your baby’s progress and provide guidance if necessary.