The fourth month
What a fun month this will be! Your baby is turning into quite the little character. She’s been smiling at you for a while now and soon she will add laughing or maybe even squealing with delight to the list of things she can do.
She is enjoying life at the moment and will happily smile at strangers. She is growing more interested in the world around her but, thankfully for you, she is still relatively immobile! What a great age!
Your baby is also gaining more control over her body – which means she’ll be more of a handful when it comes to changing nappies and getting dressed. There’s just too much else going on to stay still for that long. She probably won’t be content to lie on her back anymore. She’ll want to be propped up so she can watch the world go by.
Health
Vaccinations are due when your baby is four months old. Make an appointment with your GP or your local immunisation clinic.
Play
This month, your baby is starting to gain more control over his body and he is starting to realise that it is in fact his body. He will reach for toys and might enjoy bearing some weight on his legs while ‘standing’ with support on your lap. Try playing peekaboo with your baby or sit and read a short book to him. Make sure you buy toys that are safe for your baby – because they are going straight into his mouth. Stuffed animals look cute but you should check for loose button eyes, strings, bows or stray wires.
What about Mum and Dad?
Now that the dust has settled you might want to make time for just the two of you. Almost without exception couples will experience some relationship issues after the birth of a baby – particularly if it is their first.
With so much focus on the baby - sleeping, feeding, clothing, bathing, settling, transporting - couples often get distracted from focusing on each other.
It is an emotional ride for new mothers and new fathers and it is worth getting some tips on maintaining a happy and healthy relationship after baby.
More useful links:
Find new games to play with your baby
Find a post-natal exercise class near you!
Read our tips for travelling with a baby
Having trouble going from awake to zzz … ? Read our article on the A-Z of sleep
Please note: All babies are different, these are generic guides and aren’t a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to contact your health care provider.
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