Four-Month-Old Milestones
As your baby grows, the fourth month marks an exciting period of new skills and greater interaction with their environment. At NEOwell, we’re here to help you understand and support your baby’s developmental milestones. Below, we outline key milestones in social, fine motor, and gross motor development for four-month-old babies.
Social Milestones
Your baby’s personality is starting to shine! At four months, social milestones include:
Engaging in Back-and-Forth Interactions: Babies may respond to your voice and facial expressions with coos, laughter, or babbling.
Recognizing Familiar Faces: They’ll show excitement or smiles when they see you or other caregivers.
Mimicking Facial Expressions: Babies begin to imitate simple expressions like smiling or sticking out their tongue.
How to Support Social Development: Play games like peek-a-boo, talk frequently to your baby, and respond to their sounds and smiles to encourage engagement.
Fine Motor Milestones
Your baby’s fine motor skills are advancing as they gain better control of their hands. Look for these milestones:
Reaching for Objects: Babies start reaching for toys, faces, or other items within their line of sight.
Grasping and Holding: They can hold small toys or rattles for longer periods.
Hand-to-Mouth Movement: Babies explore by bringing objects or their hands to their mouth.
How to Support Fine Motor Development: Provide age-appropriate toys that are easy to grasp, such as soft rattles or textured teethers. Encourage tummy time with toys placed just within reach to stimulate hand-eye coordination.
Gross Motor Milestones
Gross motor skills involve larger movements and strength-building. At four months, milestones include:
Rolling Over: Babies may begin to roll from tummy to back or back to tummy.
Lifting Head and Chest: During tummy time, they can lift their head and chest higher, using their arms for support.
Improved Head Control: They can hold their head steady and upright when supported in a sitting position.
How to Support Gross Motor Development: Continue tummy time daily to strengthen neck, back, and arm muscles. Use mirrors or toys to keep them engaged and encourage rolling by gently guiding their movement.
How NEOwell Can Help
NEOwell offers expert guidance and personalized support to help you navigate your baby’s developmental milestones with confidence. From tailored tips for preemies to advice on age-appropriate activities, we’re here to make parenting a little easier.
Favorite Toys for Four Months:
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Baby Mirror - https://amzn.to/4h0B5aJ
Unique Journey, Own Pace, Don’t Compare to Others
Every baby develops at their own pace, but these four-month milestones provide a helpful guide to your baby’s growth. By fostering a supportive environment filled with interaction and play, you’re laying the foundation for your baby’s healthy development. If you have concerns about your baby’s milestones, consult your pediatrician or reach out to NEOwell for personalized support.