Normal Development: 4 Months Old

Here's what you might notice your baby doing between the ages of 4 months and 6 months of age.

Daily activities

• is active and playful
• reaches and grasps some objects
• shakes rattle when placed in hand
• carefully studies objects placed in hand
• puts everything into mouth
• plays contentedly with fingers and hands
• usually sleeps through the night
• acknowledges bottle gleefully
• laughs and giggles while playing and socializing
• basks in attention
• just begins to realize objects exist even when out of sight

Hearing

• turns head purposefully in response to human voice
• smiles and coos when talked to

Motor skills

• rolls from side to side
• holds up chest when lying on tummy
• supports head when held in sitting position
• sits with support for longer periods
• enjoys using the legs in kicking motions

Vision

• focuses clearly
• fascinated with mirror image

Each child is unique. It is therefore difficult to describe exactly what should be expected at each stage of a child's development. While certain behaviours and physical milestones tend to occur at certain ages, a wide spectrum of growth and behaviour for each age is normal. These guidelines are offered as a way of showing a general progression through the developmental stages rather than as fixed requirements for normal development at specific ages. It is perfectly natural for a child to attain some milestones earlier and other milestones later than the general trend. Keep this in mind as you review these milestones.

If you have any concerns related to your child's own pattern of development, check with your paediatrician or family physician.

	PAEDIATRICIAN A medical doctor who specializes in the development of children and the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting children. Some paediatricians specialize in specific types of diseases and disorders. Others may be available to act as a regular doctor for well baby visits, physicals, immunizations and general health concerns.

	FAMILY PHYSICIAN A medical doctor with several years extra training in primary care. Family physicians provide care for the entire family and therefore is interested in all aspects of your family’s health.