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Gross Motor Skills
At four months old, your baby is becoming more and more capable of controlling their body movements. They may start to roll over, from their tummy to their back or back to their tummy. Your little one will also start to push up onto their arms while lying on their tummy. They may even start to sit up with support. These are all great signs of strong gross motor development.
Fine Motor Skills
Your baby’s hand-eye coordination is improving, and they will start to reach and grab for objects that interest them. They may even start to transfer objects between hands. Encourage this development by offering your baby toys with different shapes, textures, and weights to explore.
Speech and Language Development
During this stage, your baby will start to babble and make a wider range of sounds. They may even be able to mimic consonant sounds such as “baba” or “dada.” Respond to your baby’s babbling and encourage them to keep practicing their sounds by repeating them back to your little one.
Social and Emotional Development
Your baby is becoming more social and interested in the world around them. They will start to smile at familiar faces and show excitement when they see their favorite toys. Your baby may also start to show signs of separation anxiety when you leave the room. Comfort your baby by reassuring them that you’ll be back soon.
Sleep Development
At four months old, your baby may start to sleep for longer periods at night, anywhere from six to eight hours. However, their daytime naps may still be shorter and more frequent. Establish a bedtime routine to help your baby associate certain rituals with sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should a four-month-old baby be eating?
At four months old, most babies are still exclusively breastfed or formula-fed. However, some babies may be ready to start solid foods around this time. Talk to your pediatrician to determine the best time to introduce solids and which foods to offer first.
How can I encourage my baby’s development?
Encourage your baby’s development by offering them plenty of opportunities to explore and play. Provide a variety of toys that stimulate their senses, and engage with your baby through talking, singing, and playing.
When should my baby start crawling?
Every baby develops at their own pace, but most babies start crawling between seven and ten months old. However, some babies may skip crawling altogether and go straight to walking. Remember to celebrate your baby’s milestones as they happen, no matter when they occur.
How much should a four-month-old baby sleep?
At four months old, your baby may sleep anywhere from 12 to 16 hours a day, including naps. However, every baby is different, and some may sleep more or less than others. Pay attention to your baby’s cues and establish a consistent sleep routine.
When should I be concerned about my baby’s development?
If you have concerns about your baby’s development, talk to your pediatrician. They can assess your baby’s progress and offer guidance on how to support their development. Remember that every baby develops at their own pace, but early intervention can make a big difference when it comes to developmental delays.