:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/babys-first-year-10-5b7c167946e0fb002c42190c.png "4 Months Old Baby Physical Development: What to Expect")
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As a new parent, it can be hard to keep up with your baby’s development. However, at four months old, your little one will have made significant progress in their physical development. Here’s what you can expect:
Table of Contents
Motor Skills
By the time your baby is four months old, they should be able to lift their head while lying on their stomach. They’ll also be able to push themselves up on their arms while lying on their tummy. Additionally, your baby might start rolling from their stomach to their back, although this might not happen until closer to five or six months old.
Sensory Development
Your baby’s sensory development is also rapidly progressing at four months old. They’ll be more aware of their surroundings and will start to develop preferences for certain colours, shapes, and textures. Your baby might also start to recognize familiar faces and voices, so it’s important to provide plenty of opportunities for social interaction.
Hand-Eye Coordination
Your baby’s hand-eye coordination will also improve at this stage. They might start to reach for and grasp objects, and will likely enjoy exploring different textures with their hands and mouth. Providing your baby with age-appropriate toys and objects to manipulate can help encourage this development.
Muscle Strength
At four months old, your baby’s muscle strength will continue to increase. They might start to put weight on their legs when held upright, and could even start bouncing up and down. Tummy time can also help to strengthen their neck, back, and arm muscles, which will be important for future motor milestones like crawling and sitting.
Conclusion
Overall, your four-month-old baby will have made significant progress in their physical development. Remember to provide plenty of opportunities for social interaction, sensory exploration, and physical activity to continue encouraging their growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much should a four-month-old weigh?
A: The average weight for a four-month-old baby is between 12 and 15 pounds.
Q: How often should I do tummy time with my four-month-old?
A: Aim for at least 20-30 minutes of tummy time spread throughout the day, but keep in mind that your baby might not be able to tolerate that long at first. Gradually increase the time as they become more comfortable.
Q: When should my baby start crawling?
A: Crawling typically starts between six and ten months old, although some babies skip crawling altogether and move straight to walking.
Q: Can I start feeding my baby solid foods at four months old?
A: It’s generally recommended to wait until six months old to start introducing solid foods, although some babies might be ready as early as four months old. Speak to your pediatrician for guidance.
Q: How often should I be taking my four-month-old baby to the pediatrician?
A: It’s recommended to schedule well-baby checkups at two, four, six, nine, and twelve months old, unless your pediatrician recommends more frequent appointments due to health concerns.