Find out what to look for in your baby’s actions and activities from four to 11 months old. His behaviors show you what his mind can do!
Your baby’s interest in the world is increasing, with beginning memory and imitation skills developing rapidly.
Smiling
Likes playing and interacting with people
More deliberate grasping and reaching for objects (food, certain toys, etc.)
Hitting or touching objects to get a response. Your baby wants to see cause-and-effect actions in objects and toys. Try pop-up, rocking, and noise-making toys to watch your baby engage and try to get a reaction through movement or sound.
Turning, tearing, and flapping objects
Looking for objects that are partially hidden or out of sight. Cover a toy with a towel and see what your baby does.
Visually tracking objects falling (like a soft, plush toy) and continuing to look in the direction the object goes
Imitating simple sounds and actions. Say “da-da” or bang an object on the table and see how your baby starts to copy you. Keep the actions going and see how much your baby can do. Can your baby move objects around on a table after watching you do it? Can your baby scribble on a piece of paper after seeing her older brother coloring? Try and see!
Recognizes familiar people
Looks at self in mirror
Generally happy and reacts to others’ emotions
Shows preferences to people and things.
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QUICK TIP: Remember that every baby is unique and may develops at different rates. If you're concerned about your child's development in any way, talk to your pediatrician or family doctor.
