Teaser:
Your baby’s development in the fourth month:
• Holds his head up on his own.
• Can sit down if propped up.
• Sleeps up to six hours straight.
• Recognizes your voice and starts to understand language.
• Grasps and holds objects.
DEVELOPMENT & KEY MILESTONES
Your baby’s development in the fourth month:
- Holds his head up on his own.
- Can sit down if propped up.
- Sleeps up to six hours straight.
- Recognizes your voice and starts to understand language.
- Grasps and holds objects.
- Can laugh out loud.
- May be teething and drooling.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Your baby’s four-month medical check-up:
Throughout the first year, babies change very fast. That’s why it’s so important for them to get frequent medical check-ups.
What happens during the medical examination?
The pediatrician:
- Will perform another full physical check-up.
- Will check her heart and lungs.
- Will make sure the baby holds her head and observe how she uses her hands.
- Will check her hearing and sight.
- Will administer the second series of vaccines (DTaP, Hib, Polio, and PCV).
- Ask the pediatrician what you should look out for and what you should do if your baby has a reaction to immunizations.
How to care for your baby’s gums and her future teeth:
You may start to care for the baby’s teeth even before they grow. Rub his gums with a wet towel in order to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. When he starts teething, brush his teeth with a small toothbrush with soft bristles, designed especially for babies. Brush his teeth with water only, as he does not need toothpaste until he is around 3 years old.
DAILY CARE
Sleeping schedules
Every baby has his own sleeping schedule. At this age, most babies have a routine and can sleep up to six hours straight. The habit of taking a nap is the key to his development. Regular naps can improve night-time sleep and reinforce following a routine.
LEARNING & GROWING
The importance of speaking with your baby
At 4 months old, your baby is already forming ideas about sounds and speech. He has fun learning how to make sounds and listening to the sounds he makes. When your baby whispers or babbles, make sure you pay attention and respond to him.
SAFETY & CHILDPROOFING
Safe toys for the baby
Don’t give your baby and toy that he could choke on. Make sure toys don’t have small pieces that could come off such as buttons or threads. Toys with strings and bows could also cause problems.
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