Baby may be able to roll from stomach to back and then over to stomach again with a rest in between. Some babies can get across a room this way.
Your baby's legs are strengthening. He probably loves to stand up with you supporting him under his arms. He may bounce up and down. These exercises help his legs prepare for crawling and walking.
Some babies will start to sit up. Be sure baby has soft surfaces to fall on. Keep an eye on your infant; he may get stuck in an uncomfortable position.
Is baby showing more fear of strangers? This is a good sign. He now recognizes people he knows from people she doesn't. Hold him when he meets people for the first time. Let baby get used to them slowly.
Baby's sitting skills improve as her lower back gets stronger. She is ready to get moving! Soon you'll see her pushing up on her hands and knees and creeping along the floor. If baby isn't moving on her tummy yet, encourage her. She may try to stand by herself. When baby rocks back and forth on her hands and knees, crawling isn't too far off. A seven-month-old may try to balance herself and sit for a while with no support. Baby may like finger foods that let her practice picking things up and feeding herself. She may enjoy playing with a spoon and a cup, but will not be good at using them to feed herself.
Seven month-olds like to be included in family activities. They enjoy looking in mirrors and at pictures of other babies. They also like to grab, shake, bang, and put things in their mouths. You can help your baby learn by giving her toys that make noise, like bells, music boxes, or rattles.
Teething often begins during the sixth month. Baby may drool more than usual and be uncomfortable and fussy. Cold teething rings and teething biscuits can soothe sore gums.
Have you noticed that your baby understands more of what you say? When you say, "look at the kitty," baby listens, then looks around until he finds it. Baby is beginning to grasp ideas, and is using his eyesight and hearing together.
Baby may notice when something new is put in his room. Baby remembers what the whole room looks like, so he sees the new item right away. Try it!
Does baby move toward the door before daddy walks through? Does baby drop a toy and cover his ears, waiting for the thud? His mind is developing.
Baby may sit up on his own for longer periods. He can reach for things without falling because he doesn't need to prop himself up with his hands.
Is your baby crawling? Some babies never crawl. They scoot on their bottoms or roll. Then they walk when they're ready.
You can help baby learn by reading books to him. Point out pictures. Take him for a walk outside to see the leaves, flowers, icicles or snowmen.
Baby's first efforts to crawl will probably be toward something like a favorite toy. Don't be surprised if baby she falls a few times. Keep her on a soft blanket or carpet.
Once she crawls, pulling herself up to a standing position isn't far behind. Baby may get up and not know how to get back down. She may cry to be rescued again and again. You can try to teach her to get down onto her knees or bottom. Be patient, your child will learn soon.
Some of the major milestones for the 9 month old include:
You can help baby learn:
A child just learning to talk often uses one word to mean several different things. Even if baby says "no" and shakes his head back and forth, he may not know what the word means. He may even say "no" while really meaning "yes". Don't take all "no's" too seriously.
Don't worry if your baby doesn't seem to do things on schedule. Your baby is unique and will develop on his own timetable. As long as he is making progress, just relax and enjoy watching him grow.
Some of the milestones for the 10th month include:
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.
