In the fourth month, your baby’s development accelerates with notable milestones. Enhanced head control enables smoother interactions, and you’ll likely witness the beginnings of rolling over. Increased vocalization and laughter reflect growing social engagement. Hands become more coordinated, allowing for the intentional grasping of objects. Your baby’s curiosity intensifies, exploring the world with newfound enthusiasm. The four-month mark often introduces the exciting development of teething. As your little one becomes more expressive, relish these precious moments of discovery and interaction, marking a vibrant phase in their early journey of growth and development.

What are the Baby’s Development and Milestones on the 4th Month

At 4 months old, babies are becoming more social and moving more purposefully. They love to babble, coo, play, and mimic the sounds they hear. Here are some developmental milestones that babies typically reach at 4 months old.

Physical Development

  • Holding head steady without support when being held
  • Rolling over from front to back and back to front
  • Reaching for and grasping objects
  • Sitting with support
  • Bearing weight on legs when held upright
  • Playing with their toes and mouthing them

Social Development

  • Smiling and laughing more often, especially in response to others
  • Babbling and making more consonant sounds
  • Responding to familiar voices and sounds
  • Showing interest in and reaching for toys and objects
  • Enjoying social interaction and play, such as peek-a-boo and other simple games

Sensory Development

  • Sight. Babies begin to track moving objects and may show a preference for bright colors and high-contrast patterns. They also start to make eye contact and recognize familiar faces
  • Smell. Babies’ sense of smell is fully developed, and they may turn towards the source of familiar scents, such as food or their caregiver’s scent
  • Hearing. Babies’ hearing is fully developed, and they can react to familiar sounds and voices. They may also start to associate sounds with objects and begin to mimic sounds
  • Touch. Babies’ sense of touch is fully developed, and they may crave skin-to-skin contact. They also begin to explore objects with their hands and mouths, using touch to learn about the world around them
  • Taste. Babies are attracted to the sweet (but not sugary) flavor of breast milk and formula. They may also begin to show interest in other flavors and anticipate feeding times

Feeding

  • At this age, babies may begin to show interest in food and open their mouths when a spoon approaches. They may also begin to eat cereals and pureed food

Sleeping Patterns

  • Sleep regression. The 4-month sleep regression is a common occurrence, as babies transition from newborn sleep to adult sleep. They may wake up more frequently during the night, and their sleep cycles may become more organized
  • Sleep duration. By 4 months old, most babies should be getting 12-16 hours of sleep in 24 hours, with 12 or so hours of that happening overnight
  • Napping. At this age, babies may still take multiple naps throughout the day, and it’s essential to establish a consistent nap schedule to help them develop healthy sleep habits

Cognitive Development

  • Attention and focus. Babies begin to pay attention to and focus on objects and people for longer periods. They may also start to recognize familiar faces and voices
  • Language development. Babies begin to babble and make more consonant sounds, and they may start to associate sounds with objects and people

What are the activities needed to Support your 4-month-old baby’s development

Reading Together

  • Reading to your baby can help with their cognitive development and language skills

Talking and Singing

  • Engage in face-to-face conversations and sing to your baby to promote language development and social interaction

Tummy Time

  • This helps strengthen your baby’s neck, shoulder, and arm muscles and encourages motor development

Exploration

  • Provide your baby with safe objects to explore, such as toys with different textures, shapes, and colors, to stimulate their senses and cognitive development

Object Exploration

  • Allow your baby to explore and play with various objects to help develop their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills

Sensory Activities

  • Activities such as playing with bubbles, exploring different textures, and shaking rattles can help stimulate your baby’s senses and promote cognitive and motor development

Social Interaction

  • Arrange playdates with other babies to encourage social interaction and emotional development

Physical Activities

  • Encourage physical activities such as “standing” with support and “working out” to help develop your baby’s gross motor skills

Mirror Play

  • Show your baby their reflection in a mirror to help them develop self-awareness and visual tracking skills

Cuddle and Affection

  • Shower your baby with love, cuddles, and kisses to provide them with the affection and attention they need for healthy emotional development

How to Feed Your 4-Month-Old Baby

Feeding your 4-month-old baby involves introducing new aspects to their diet as they transition from exclusive breastfeeding or formula feeding. Here are guidelines for feeding your 4-month-old:

Breastfeeding or Formula

  • Continue breastfeeding or formula-feeding as the primary source of nutrition. Breast milk or formula still provides the essential nutrients your baby needs for growth and development.

Introduction of Solid Foods

  • Around 4 months, you can start introducing single-grain baby cereals or pureed foods. Begin with a single-grain cereal mixed with breast milk or formula, gradually transitioning to other pureed fruits and vegetables.

Start with Iron-Rich Foods

  • Iron is important for your baby’s development. Begin with iron-rich foods such as iron-fortified baby cereals. This helps ensure they receive an adequate amount of this essential nutrient.

Timing of Solid Feedings

  • Start with one meal per day, usually during a time when your baby is alert and not overly hungry or tired. This might be after a breastfeeding or formula-feeding session.

Gradual Introduction of Foods

  • Introduce new foods one at a time, waiting a few days before introducing another. This allows you to monitor for any potential allergic reactions or sensitivities.

Consistency of Purees

  • Initially, purees should be very smooth and runny. As your baby becomes more accustomed to eating, you can gradually increase the thickness of the purees.

Use Soft Spoons

  • When feeding purees, use soft baby spoons. This ensures gentle contact with your baby’s sensitive gums and makes the transition to eating solids more comfortable.

How Much Sleep Does Your 4-Month-Old Baby Need

Nighttime Sleep

  • Most 4-month-old babies sleep for an average of 9 to 12 hours during the night. Nighttime sleep tends to consolidate into longer stretches, with some babies even sleeping through the night. However, night wakings for feeding or comfort may still occur.

Daytime Naps

  • Your baby will likely take 3 to 4 naps during the day. The total duration of daytime naps can range from 3 to 5 hours. Naps may become more predictable, with some babies transitioning to a more structured nap schedule.

Self-Soothing

  • Around 4 months, some babies may start developing self-soothing skills. This can include sucking on their fingers or thumbs to comfort themselves and settle back to sleep independently.

Day in the Life of a 4-Month-Old Baby

Feeding

  • Breastfed babies should get 24 to 32 ounces of breast milk a day
  • Some parents choose to begin introducing solids at this age

Sleeping

  • Baby should sleep about 12-16 hours a day
  • Longer stretch at night and at least two naps during the day

Bathing

  • Bathing can be done 2-3 times a week
  • Use lukewarm water and a mild baby soap

Changing Diapers

  • Changing diapers is typically done about 8 to 12 times a day
  • Use gentle baby wipes to clean your baby’s bottom
  • Apply a diaper cream if necessary to prevent diaper rash

Playing

  • Use a baby-safe mirror during playtime
  • Place your baby on their tummy for short periods several times a day
  • Singing or reciting nursery rhymes to your baby is not only entertaining but also promotes language development

Fun Facts

  • Babies at this age can hold their heads steady without support when being held
  • They are more social and enjoy laughter and interaction with others
  • They also like to play games such as peek-a-boo

Baby’s Health at 4-Month-Old

Physical Development

  • Head control. Babies at this age can hold their heads up without support and are beginning to push up to their elbows when lying on their stomachs.
  • Rolling over. They may be able to roll from front to back and are working on rolling over onto their sides.
  • Sitting. Babies can sit straight if propped up and can raise their heads 90 degrees when placed on their stomachs.
  • Grasping objects. They can hold and let go of an object and are starting to grasp objects with both hands.

Diapering and Hygiene Practices

  • Diapering. Proper diapering involves preparing the changing area, removing the soiled diaper, cleaning the baby’s genital area, applying diaper rash cream if necessary, and putting on a fresh, clean diaper. Regular and timely diaper changes are crucial to prevent skin irritations, diaper rashes, and infections.
  • Hygiene. Promoting good hygiene practices beyond diapering is equally important. Bathing and cleansing your baby regularly using mild and baby-safe products helps keep their skin healthy and free from irritations. Trimming your baby’s nails and introducing oral hygiene practices at an appropriate age is vital for their overall health and safety.
  • Cleaning the environment. It is critical to keep restrooms and changing areas clean in childcare programs, as diapering and toileting are major sources of contamination. Unsanitary practices can put you and your children at risk for illness and infection.
  • Hand hygiene. After diaper changes, it’s essential to wash the child’s hands with soap and water, as proper hand hygiene is crucial for preventing the spread of germs and illness

Interaction and Social Development

  • Babbling. Babies at this age may start to babble, making different sounds like “ga-ga-ga” or “ba-ba-ba”.
  • Facial expressions. They may express happiness, sadness, and other emotions through their facial expressions.
  • Social interaction. Babies enjoy playing with others, including their caregivers and may show signs of social anxiety when separated from familiar people.
  • Imitation. They may copy facial expressions and other movements, such as sticking out their tongue or making a funny face.

Common Health Concerns

  • Colds and Respiratory Infections. Infants are susceptible to respiratory infections. Keep the environment clean, and limit exposure to sick individuals.
  • Teething Discomfort. Teething may start around 4 months. Provide safe teething toys and consider gentle gum massages for relief.
  • Colic and Gas Issues. Some babies experience colic or gas discomfort. Burp your baby after feeding and try gentle tummy massages.
  • Skin Rashes. Watch for diaper rash and skin irritation. Change diapers frequently and use mild, hypoallergenic products.
  • Sleep Regression. Around 4 months, sleep patterns can change. Establish a soothing bedtime routine to ease any disruptions.
  • Vaccination Side Effects. After vaccinations, mild reactions like fussiness or a low-grade fever are common. Consult your pediatrician on managing them.
  • Spit-up and Reflux. Many babies experience spit-up or reflux. Feed in an upright position and keep your baby upright after feeding.
  • Ear Infections. Be alert for signs of ear infections, such as pulling on the ears or increased fussiness. Consult your doctor if you suspect one.
  • Constipation or Diarrhea. Changes in bowel habits can occur. Ensure a balanced diet and consult your doctor if issues persist.
  • Eczema and Allergies. Some babies develop eczema or show signs of allergies. Use gentle skincare products and introduce new foods cautiously.

Items Needed on the 4th Month of Your Baby

Baby Gear

  • Travel crib
  • Baby carrier
  • Sit-Me-Up floor seat
  • Activity gym
  • Teething toys
  • Rattles
  • Soft and plush toys

Feeding Supplies

  • Feeding bottles
  • Bibs
  • Baby food maker
  • Soft-tip spoons

Sleeping Aids

  • Baby bouncer
  • Swaddle blankets
  • Sleep sacks
  • White noise machine

Health and Safety

  • Baby monitor
  • Baby first aid kit
  • Baby grooming kit
  • Baby sunscreen

Clothing

  • Onesies
  • Sleepers
  • Socks
  • Hats
  • Mittens

Life as a Parent on Baby’s 4th Month

Navigating the fourth month of parenthood brings about a continued evolution in the intricate dance of caring for your baby. Establishing routines becomes more refined, offering a comforting sense of predictability amidst the ongoing surprises of parenting. Sleep patterns may show signs of stabilization, providing a glimpse of more extended periods of rest for both you and your little one. As the parent-child bond deepens, interactive play takes on a more engaging and reciprocal nature, contributing to your baby’s burgeoning development. Seeking support remains crucial, whether from family, friends, or parenting communities, creating a network that shares in the joys and challenges of raising a child. Self-care continues to be paramount, allowing you to recharge and approach parenting with renewed energy and resilience. Celebrate the milestones, no matter how small, and savor the unique personality traits and emerging preferences your baby begins to exhibit. Introduce your little one to new sensory experiences, both indoors and outdoors, fostering exploration and curiosity. Regular health check-ups remain a cornerstone of responsible parenting, ensuring your baby’s continued well-being. Embracing the fourth month as a parent involves adapting to the ever-changing landscape with patience, love, and an appreciation for the remarkable journey of nurturing new life.

Checklist for the 4th Month of Your Baby

Developmental Milestones 

  • Smiles on their own to get your attention
  • May bring hands to mouth
  • Follows moving things with eyes
  • Can hold the head steady, unsupported

Feeding and Growth 

  • Feeds 5-6 times a day
  • Sleeps 9-12 hours at night
  • Weight gain of 4-7 ounces per week
  • Head circumference and length are measured

Health and Safety 

  • Second round of vaccinations
  • Baby-proofing the house
  • Using a rear-facing car seat
  • Checking water temperature for baths

Parenting Tips 

  • Engage in tummy time
  • Read and sing to your baby
  • Establish a bedtime routine
  • Respond to your baby’s cues and signals

Last Updated on January 15, 2024