Normal Development: 4 Months Old
Each child is unique. While some behavior and growth milestones tend to happen at certain ages, a wide range for each age is normal. It is okay if your child reaches some milestones earlier and others later than the average. If you have any concerns about your child’s development, check with your healthcare provider. Here’s what you might notice your baby doing between the ages of 4 months and 6 months of age.
Emotional
- Is active, playful, and likes people.
- Enjoys being held, being talked to, and hearing singing.
- Laughs and giggles while playing and socializing.
Social
- Basks in attention.
- Turns head in response to human voice.
- Smiles and coos when talked to.
Mental
- Carefully studies objects placed in his hand.
- Explores things by putting them into his mouth.
- May start to realize that objects exist even when out of sight.
Physical
- Usually sleeps through the night.
- Reaches and grasps some objects.
- Shakes rattle when placed in hand.
- Focuses clearly.
- Fascinated with mirror image.
- Rolls from front to back.
- Holds up chest when lying on tummy.
- Supports head when held in sitting position.
- Sits with support for longer periods.
- Enjoys using the legs in kicking motions.
Last modified: 2013-09-18
Last reviewed: 2013-09-18
Normal Development: 4 Months Old: References
Bright Futures Pocket Guide, 3rd Edition. Edited by Joseph F. Hagan Jr. MD, FAAP; Judith S. Shaw, RN, MPH, EdD; and Paula Duncan, MD, FAAP. American Academy of Pediatrics. Accessed from http://brightfutures.aap.org/pdfs/BF3%20pocket%20guide_final.pdf