Developmental Milestones

At four months, your baby is likely showing significant physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Here’s what to look for:

• Increased Mobility: Your baby may start rolling from tummy to back and possibly back to tummy. Tummy time becomes even more important as it strengthens neck and arm muscles.

• Improved Hand-Eye Coordination: Babies at this stage often grasp objects more purposefully. Don’t be surprised if everything they grab goes straight to their mouth—it’s their way of exploring!

• Heightened Curiosity: Expect more engagement with their surroundings. Your baby will enjoy watching people, objects, and even their reflection in a mirror.

• Social Smiles and Babbling: Your baby will likely smile at you often and start experimenting with cooing, giggling, and babbling. They’re learning the foundations of communication, so talk to them frequently!

• Improved Vision: By now, your baby can distinguish between different colors and may be drawn to bright, bold patterns. They also start tracking objects and people more effectively with their eyes.

Feeding Changes

Whether you’re breastfeeding, formula feeding, or a combination of both, your baby may be more predictable with feeding schedules now. Around this time, babies may begin showing signs of readiness for solid foods, though many experts recommend waiting until six months. Watch for signs like:

• Interest in your food.

• Good head and neck control.

Discuss your baby’s readiness with their pediatrician before introducing solids.

Sleep Patterns

Sleep can start to stabilize during the fourth month, but this period is also notorious for the four-month sleep regression. Babies may wake more often as their sleep cycles mature and they practice new skills like rolling. Here are tips to navigate sleep challenges:

• Stick to a consistent bedtime routine.

• Create a soothing sleep environment.

• Be patient—this phase is temporary!

Playtime and Activities

Play is a key way babies learn about the world. Try these activities to support their development:

• Tummy Time: Encourage tummy time daily to build strength and coordination.

• Talking and Singing: Babies love hearing your voice. Narrate your day, sing songs, and use different tones to keep their attention.

• Colorful Toys: Introduce soft, colorful toys and let your baby practice grabbing and reaching.

• Mirror Play: Babies enjoy looking at their reflection—it’s both entertaining and educational. 

Health and Wellness 

At four months, your baby will likely have a pediatric checkup that includes:

• Growth measurements (height, weight, head circumference).

• Vaccinations (often the second round of shots).

• Developmental assessments to ensure they’re meeting milestones.

Bring any questions or concerns to your pediatrician, whether they’re about feeding, sleep, or behavior.

Parenting Challenges and Joys

The fourth month can bring a mix of challenges and joys:

• Challenges: Sleep regressions, fussiness during teething, and adjusting to your baby’s growing needs.

• Joys: Seeing their first giggles, experiencing their blossoming personality, and celebrating every new milestone.

Remember, you’re doing a fantastic job. Every baby develops at their own pace, so enjoy the unique journey with your little one.