Four Month Old

Your baby has personality!   And, she's found her voice.  At about four months old, babies are cooing, giggling and even imitating sounds.   The brain is developing rapidly and you will be amazed at how much your baby absorbs in one day.   This is an important time to talk, sing and read to your baby.  She may not understand the meaning of every word, but her memory and attention span are constantly increasing.

Something else that is increasing;  your baby's appetite!  The birth weight should be about doubled by this time and that means your baby is hungrier, consuming up to five ounces at some feedings.  You may feel it's time to start your baby on cereal, but this may not be a good idea.  Most pediatricians recommend waiting until your baby reaches six months of age before starting rice cereal, baby foods, or any solid foods.  Furthermore, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that a baby should also be able to sit up without assistance and reach for food before starting on solid foods.  Research shows, babies are at less risk of obesity later in life, if cereal and solid foods are not offered until six months of age.

Your four month old should be sleeping four to six hours straight during the night.  It's okay to try and comfort baby back to sleep at this time, as she is now able to go without a middle-of-the-night feeding.

Motor skills are beginning to blossom and you'll see your baby passing toys between her hands and rolling over to reach what she wants.   Now is a good time to start "baby proofing" your home as she is becoming more mobile.

Call your doctor immediately if your baby has a fever of 101 F or higher, or is experiencing noticeable, labored breathing.  It could be a sign of respiratory distress.