Your babys growth and development - 8 months old
Your 8-month-old
Your baby is probably getting into everything and moving around a lot as they explore the world. This means more work for you, but it's wonderful to watch their fascination grow.
By now your baby will probably be eating solid food as well as having breastmilk or formula. At 8 months, many babies will enjoy eating finger foods like small pieces of soft raw fruit (such as banana or avocado), boiled or steamed vegetables (soft beans, carrot or pumpkin), toast or rusks.
Breastmilk or formula is still the main source of nutrition, however if they are eating a lot of solids they may take a less milk. Don’t be too concerned, just make sure the milk and solids are well spaced to maximise their milk intake. Don’t introduce cow’s milk until they reach 12 months.
Your baby will also be getting more emotional and by now will be showing signs of separation anxiety, if they haven’t already. They might cry or scream when they’re separated from you, or cling to you when you try to leave. Gradually your baby will learn that you always come back and will build trust with other people in their life.
Separation anxiety can make it harder to get your baby to sleep. They still need about 14 hours sleep during a 24-hour day, including a nap or 2 during the day. A lot of babies will only nap for less than an hour and will wake up a lot at night.
You will be busier as your baby starts to move around and demand more stimulation. Eight-month-olds sometimes require a lot of patience and energy. Don’t forget to look after yourself and take time out if you feel overwhelmed at times.
What can your baby do?
Your baby is probably sitting well without support by now and may be crawling or shuffling on their bottom. Don’t worry if your baby isn’t crawling, though — some babies never crawl and go straight to walking.
Babies at 8 months are getting stronger and more mobile. They may be able to pull themselves up to a standing position on furniture — so make sure anything dangerous like electrical cords, unstable furniture or hot drinks are well out of reach.
Because they are moving around so much now, they are at risk of hurting themselves. Bumps and knocks are a normal part of childhood. Of course you need to make the house safe, but try not to be too over-protective. Exploring the world and testing their limits is an essential part of a baby's development.
They will be looking for objects that have been dropped or are hidden and may be able to point at things with their index finger. They can drop objects and will be learning to pick up small things in a pincer grasp with their thumb and first or second fingers. They will be able to scoop up food and hold it in their fist.
They often bang objects together at this age. Your baby may also drop things, throw them and will still be putting them in their mouth. They will also be learning what things are for and will love baby activity centres that make a noise when you twist, poke or press things.
Your baby’s vision will have improved and their depth perception will be almost as good as an adult’s. They will be able to see you from across the room and will look around for people if you name them. They may be able to point to the correct object in a book when you say its name.
How to help your baby develop
Talk to your baby constantly as they get more interested in language. The more you talk to them, the more they will understand what words mean. You can teach them how conversation works by responding to their sounds and making your own voice go up and down as you talk. You can also use facial expressions to help your baby know what you are trying to say.
The games you can play with your baby are endless now. They will love bells and things that make sounds. You can get down on their level to chase them around the floor, make funny noises, or pretend to be different animals. Encourage physical play, like helping them to move and explore, to help build their muscle strength. Playing games with your baby will help them to feel loved and secure.
Development problem signs
Babies develop at different rates. At 8 months, talk to your doctor or maternal child health nurse if they:
- haven’t started to move at all
- aren't showing any interest in or reaching for objects
- don’t recognise you or a main carer
- aren't turning towards quiet sounds
- aren't babbling or recognising sounds made by other people
- don’t make eye contact
- can’t be comforted by you or a main carer
- hold their body stiff rather than sitting
Where to seek help
If you are worried or would like to discuss any issues with your baby’s development, speak to your doctor, maternal child health nurse, or call Pregnancy, Birth and Baby on 1800 882 436.
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