Four Months | Download to Print

Normal Development
Rolls from back to front and vice versa
Laughs aloud and socializes
Shakes rattle
Reaches for and bats at objects
No longer looks cross-eyed
Focuses eyes on objects at different distances
Opens and closes hands
Holds head steady and erect for short periods
Carries objects to his/her mouth

Diet
Your baby should continue on breast milk or formula feedings as this is the main source of nutrition
Around 4-6 months, baby cereal may be started. Rice Cereal is preferable as it is the least allergenic. Begin with 1 tablespoon of cereal mixed with breast milk or formula taken 1-2 times per day by spoon. Continue feeding your baby rice cereal at least 5 days before introducing other solids.
Fruits and vegetables may be introduced one at a time after your baby has tolerated the rice cereal. Each new food should be used at least 3 days before starting something else that is new. Buy the tiny first food jars in the beginning. As your baby’s appetite increases, you may graduate to the bigger jars.
If your baby has a strong tongue thrust reflex and does not accept the introduction of the spoon, just relax and try again in a few weeks…there is no rush!

Hygiene
Clean only the outer ear with a cotton swab. Never insert the swab into the ear canal.
Use a mild soap for bathing.
Use water only on the face.
Use baby shampoo for the hair, or an all in one product (Dove, Neutrogena, or Aveeno).

Safety
Always restrain your baby in an infant car seat.
Never prop a bottle – your baby might choke.
Toys/pacifiers should not be hung around the neck.
Never leave your baby alone on a bed, sofa,or any surface form which he/she could roll off.
Stay with your baby every minute during bath time.
Do not hold your baby while you are eating, drinking, or cooking hot foods.
Install smoke alarms on every floor and check batteries monthly.
Keep small objects out of your baby’s reach.