Helping Your Baby Explore

By the time your baby is four months old, she is beginning to learn to move around. She may even roll from her stomach to her back.

Your baby can sit up if you prop her up with pillows. She is also able to grab an object with both of her hands.

Since she can now hold toys, your baby spends more time playing.

At this age, babies need time to explore the world around them. It is important to give them time on a flat surface. Place your baby on a blanket on the floor. If you are outdoors, place a blanket on the ground. Make sure the blanket is out of the hot sun. Do not put it near objects or insects that can hurt her. Let her wear clothing that allows her to move easily. Watch her very carefully. Do not walk away leaving her on the blanket, even for moment.

Here are some activities to try:

• Place toys just out of reach so your baby will reach for them. She will learn that she has to wiggle and reach to get the toys. If she can’t reach a toy in a few seconds, place it within her reach so she doesn’t get frustrated.
• Spread a cloth on the grass and lay your baby on her stomach at one edge of the cloth. Gently raise the edge of the cloth so she will roll onto her back. Reward her with a hug and a kiss.
• Place an unbreakable mirror next to your baby’s blanket so she can look at herself. Make sure the mirror cannot fall and break.

This content has been provided freely by CMC. Click Healthy Start, Grow Smart—Your Four-Month-Old for your free download. Click GreatDad Free Ebook to download the entire Health Start, Grow Smart series.

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