Baby Care: First Year

Lesson 4: Stages: Growth and Development

Four to Six Months

During these months, your baby is becoming more social. He invites you to play with him now. When you shake the rattle in front of him, he reaches for it, and may put it in his mouth. Help him shake it. He may enjoy peek-a-boo and fingerplay games. There are several variations of peek-a-boo. Cover your face or your baby's face with your hands or a blanket, then "Boo!" peek at him. Be creative. Try finger and toe games during which you act out songs and rhymes with his fingers and toes, and your fingers and toes.

With his increased interest in the world around him, your baby is less content in positions in which he can't see around. Until he learns to crawl, he still wants to be held most of the time. Try carrying him in an upright position in a sling or other carrier. Respond to his cues to be held or put down. He also wants to practice early sitting and crawling behaviors. He may fight sleep because he doesn't want to miss anything.

Monthly Milestones

Four Months: He stands with support, and sits propped on his arms. He rolls tummy to side. He plays with his fingers, and reaches with both hands. He can support his chest and head with his arms while lying on his tummy. He laughs when tickled, "talks," and coos to people and objects. (See pages 437 to 445 in The Baby Book for more information on your baby's fourth month.)

Five Months: He may bounce while held in a standing position. He rolls tummy to back. He may wiggle forward on the ground. He grasps small objects with both hands, and he grabs his feet and pulls them to his mouth. He looks at himself in the mirror. He babbles, mimics sounds, and turns toward your voice. (See pages 445 to 449 in The Baby Book for more information on your baby's fifth month.)

Six Months: He may sit briefly without support. He can roll over in both directions. He may creep forward on his stomach by pushing with his legs. He transfers objects from one hand to the other, and drops toys on purpose. He sees color well. (See pages 449 to 459 in The Baby Book for more information on your baby's sixth month.)

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