What Things Should a Baby Be Doing from One to Nine Months of Age?

One Month

• It seems as though it was just days ago you brought him home from the hospital, but your son is now one month old. He is beginning to "talk" to Mom, Dad and anyone else who will listen. Keep encouraging his coos and babbles by talking back to him.

  He can also begin to spend some time on his tummy at this age; just make sure someone is there to watch. Being on his tummy is important so he can see the world from a different angle and practice holding up his head.

  You may also notice he has discovered some "new" body parts: his fingers and toes.

Two Months

• Be ready with the camera, because if she hasn't done so yet, she will soon give you her first real smile. She can also recognize the voices of familiar people such as her mommy or grandma.

  Her body is progressing, too, and she can probably push herself up on her arms when you put her on her tummy. The legs are not far behind, as many two-month-olds will push their legs down when you stand them on your lap.

Three Months

• Baby might be tuckering you out more these days, as he can stay awake for longer periods during the day. He has probably mastered the art of giggling and clapping.

  A few babies can bear weight on their legs at this age, but not all of them.

Four Months

• At this age, caretakers will often get a break, as baby will be sleeping through the night.

  When it comes to tummy time, she can raise up on her arms fully. When she is sitting (propped), she should be able to keep her head level.

  Sometime between three and six months of age, babies make their first steps toward eating solid foods. She's ready if she can hold her own head up and shows interest in your food.

Five Months

• Object permanence. Even if you don't know what that means, chances are your five-month-old does!

  It means that even when an object isn't visible, it's still there. He has discovered this and will love playing peek-a-boo and finding things you hide (in your hand, under a blanket, etc.).

  He can also begin to show you his skills in handling items by passing a toy from one hand to another. While he is doing this, you might notice he has become more chatty, babbling and spouting out syllables. Encourage both by talking to him and introducing interesting toys.

  Teething can start at this age, so keep an eye out for drooling.

Six Months

• Halfway through her first year, she may be able to stand on her own two legs if Mommy holds her hands. She is also likely starting to crawl. Keep an eye on her when she plays because she might be able to pull herself up to standing as well.

  She's also much more social, and will begin to give her grandma a wave or her auntie a smile.

  Baby may even be ready to move to the big bathtub and start having her teeth brushed with a baby toothbrush.

Seven Months

• Repetition is key at seven months. He will likely show pleasure if you sing the same song to him or play the same games.

  He can wave and blow kisses to Grandpa, but don't think you are in charge. He is beginning to assert his independence.

  Mealtimes are established at this stage, so be sure to keep baby to the rest of the family's schedule instead of all-day grazing. You might also want to consider weaning (beginning to do away with the bottle or breast) at this age.

Eight Months

• Go, baby, go! Most all babies at this age are very mobile, whether they are full-on crawlers or only cruising (holding onto the couch cushions). This month or soon, you could hear "mama" or "dada" come through her lips.

  She is also likely to discover her genitals at this age. This is a normal developmental milestone.

Nine Months

• At around nine months, he can hear and understand you. If you ask him to give you a kiss, he just might do it.

  Mimicry is also important at this stage, so be careful to monitor what you say.

  He might even start to drink from a cup this month if you are weaning. While you are at the table, remember that he is changing, so a good eater might become a picky one seemingly overnight.