Knows the names of a few everyday items
Your baby will now be becoming quite fluent in the art of baby conversation, their early vocalisations are being held with more intent and they are willing to try and communicate meaning with you. It is around this time that your baby’s brain has connected many words to objects, people and expressions in their daily routine and their level of comprehension is growing.
pushes onto hands and knees rocking backward and forward
Your baby has been pushing themselves up onto their hands and knees. This has taken lots of concentration and practice.
I can see it, what more will my mouth tell me?
When your baby is playing, you may have spotted them exploring toys and objects in different ways. Before this, they might have moved their hands or an object to their mouth to explore. Now, they are developing more control of their movements and are also starting to use their vision alongside touch to learn more about objects. They know the set of actions that need to be taken in order to pick up an object and bring it towards their mouth.[1]
I know what's coming! Moving in anticipation
Your baby has been exploring their movements and is beginning to link them with things that happen. They are also starting to remember things and move in anticipation of what is about to happen. For example, they might stiffen their body in anticipation of being picked up or open their hand when they see a toy.
How babies recognise and then remember people
Your baby may be surrounded by a large family, or their circle might be a little smaller. There will be people your baby will see every day and will be showing warmth and affection towards. For example, they might be settled by your touch, or just seeing you, or might kick with excitement when hearing your voice.
Tummy time is perfect prep for sitting, crawling and standing
By now, your baby will be engaged in tummy time, and they will be used to lying in this position. Some babies do not take to lying on their stomachs at first, but after implementing tummy time little and often into their usual routine, it should become just a normal aspect of their day.
From rocking to rolling, and back again!
Your baby may now take part in tummy time. It may have taken some time for them to get used to playing in this position, and they might well still be getting used to it. When in this position, they will be making movements like reaching for objects, and they may even be lifting their heads more to tune into their surroundings.
Feet down, pelvis up and muscles into action!
Your baby is now making more deliberate motions with their body. You might see them reach out and grab for objects or raise their arms to be lifted as you come close by, wanting to be picked up by you. Your baby might be using their hands and feet in ways you have not noticed before now, for instance, when lying on their back, they may push their feet on floor. They might even be able to push up their pelvis when pushing their feet down.
The Landau reflex – not something out of Star Wars, but they will look like they're flying!
Your baby is now likely to be engaging in tummy time, or will be starting to do so. When lying on their tummy, you may see your baby arch their back and lift their arms and legs. This is also known as the Landau reflex, which is often present in babies when they are spending more time on their stomach.
