Try putting a toy into your baby’s hand. She will probably hold on and watch it as she moves her arm. She may even reach for things and grab them. She might put her hand to her mouth and suck on her fingers.
Your baby doesn't have full control over her arms and legs yet, so she may get angry or frustrated when she can't make her body do what she wants it to.
Babies like to watch things. They will even stop trying to follow a toy with their eyes. Hold it near and then move it away. Bring it close again or move it out of sight. Your baby will continue eating. She hasn’t learned that things still exist even when she can't see them. She loves making noises and can even laugh now. The more you respond to her when she "talks", the more baby will answer back and smile at you. This is good practice for real talking later.
Baby knows her mom and dad from strangers and may cry when one of you leaves. Don't sneak out! Tell her you will be back.
Your baby might be afraid of people she doesn't know well. Let your baby get used to new people slowly.
Baby may like toys that make noises now. Ring a bell or squeeze a squeaky toy and watch her try to find out where the sound came from.
Baby has discovered her feet and may love to suck on her toes. She is getting stronger and may start to push up on hands and knees. For safety, remove toys that are strung across the crib, like crib gyms.
One baby may sit up sooner than another, but every baby first holds up their head and neck, then learn to use their arms and hands and, finally, their bodies, legs and feet.
Speedy physical development by itself does not mean she is advanced in other areas. And, slow physical development doesn't mean she is slow in other areas. If baby is very slow, talk to your doctor.
All babies are unique and meet milestones at their own pace. Developmental guidelines simply show what your baby has the potential to accomplish — if not right now, then soon. If your baby was premature, keep in mind that kids born early usually need a bit more time to meet their milestones. If you have any concerns or questions at all about your baby's development, check with your healthcare provider or pediatrician.
Baby has lots of energy! She seems to be moving all day when she isn't asleep. Many 5-month-olds can move around by rolling or wriggling. You'll need extra patience to keep up with her.
Baby knows her mom and dad from strangers and may cry when one of you leaves. Don't sneak out! Tell her you will be back.
Your baby might be afraid of people she doesn't know well. Let your baby get used to new people slowly.
Baby may like toys that make noises now. Ring a bell or squeeze a squeaky toy and watch her try to find out where the sound came from.
Baby has discovered her feet and may love to suck on her toes. She is getting stronger and may start to push up on hands and knees. For safety, remove toys that are strung across the crib, like crib gyms.
One baby may sit up sooner than another, but every baby first holds up their head and neck, then learn to use their arms and hands and, finally, their bodies, legs and feet.
Speedy physical development by itself does not mean she is advanced in other areas. And, slow physical development doesn't mean she is slow in other areas. If baby is very slow, talk to your doctor.
