Rolling Over and Sitting Up
Rolling over is one of the first exciting milestones in a baby’s life. Typically occurring around 4 to 6 months, your baby may start by flipping from front to back and then, soon after, reverse direction. It’s a joyous moment to celebrate their tiny triumphs!
Personally, my little one surprised us by rolling over during tummy time at 5 months – a true proud parent moment! Don’t forget to have your camera ready to capture these precious milestones.
Pro tip: Rolling over can also be a delightful way to help your baby burn off some energy before bedtime, potentially leading to a better night’s sleep.
Crawling and Moving Around
Watching your baby crawl for the first time elicits sheer joy. Crawling generally starts between 7 to 10 months. Your baby may experiment with different styles – the army crawl, scooting on their bottom, or the classic on-all-fours approach. Our house turned into an obstacle course to see which method our little explorer would prefer! To encourage crawling, place toys just out of reach. Remember, every tiny scoot across the floor is a victory worth cheering.
First Words and Sounds
Hearing your baby’s first word is magical. Most babies start babbling by 6 months and say their first words, like “mama” or “dada,” around their first birthday. Our little chatterbox said “doggie” first, much to the amusement of our pup! To promote language development, keep talking and reading to your baby. Describe your day, sing songs, and repeat sounds. Conversations may feel one-sided now, but they are building blocks for verbal skills.
Developing Social Skills
Babies start showing social skills early on. By 9 months, your baby might wave, clap, or even play peek-a-boo. Our baby’s infectious giggle during peek-a-boo sessions melted our hearts every time. Encourage these skills through interactive play. Join baby groups or arrange playdates to help your child learn to navigate social interactions. Be patient; every smile or wave is a step towards better social skills and confidence.
First Steps and Walking
The moment your baby takes their first steps is unforgettable. Babies typically start walking between 9 to 12 months. Our baby took her first steps right after her first birthday, and we celebrated with a mini dance party! To support their walking journey, invest in a sturdy walker and ensure your home is baby-proofed. Let them toddle around in a safe environment. Each step is a stride toward independence. Cheer them on!
Celebrate the milestones in your baby’s life, they are small steps towards big achievements!