The 4 month visit is a very special time for you and your baby. Up to this point, parents have been fulfilling baby’s every need without getting a whole lot in return. That is all about to change. At this age, babies have a host of new tricks that are sure to leave parents laughing and begging for more. This is the time to embrace parenthood, as your baby is doing her very best to show you her appreciation for your efforts.
Babies that are three to four months old are noisy! They babble, they laugh, they coo, and they squeal. Your baby is much more in control of his head and he can lift up his head when lying on his tummy. Your baby may even attempt to roll over from front to back. Your baby is beginning to recognize the power of her hands: opening/closing, grasping and reaching. Although you thought it might never happen, your baby is beginning to sleep a little longer at night. Some lucky parents may get a continuous 6 hours of sleep at one stretch. If it hasn’t happened yet, don’t lose hope. It is just around the corner.
Speaking of sleep, it is okay to consider the beginnings of a sleep schedule for your baby. Although it will be a work in progress (constantly changing), it is helpful to have a goal in mind. You may want to consider putting your baby to bed while they are still awake. Babies are learning to self soothe, and they may doze off to sleep on their own. As already mentioned, don’t get discouraged if this is not an easy task. It is something to consider and try, but all babies are a little different.
Get animated! You can’t be too silly or too dramatic for your baby. Babies are the ultimate audience….they will appreciate all of your antics, and they soak it all up! Even if you have been told that you can’t hold a tune to save your life, SING! Even if you have never danced in your life, DANCE! Do you see a pattern? Have fun, be interactive, and don’t let stage fright get in your way.
As with every well child visit, check in with yourself and your spouse. Have you had a date yet? It is important to nurture your relationship with your spouse along with your relationship with your baby. A happy and healthy baby is one with happy and healthy parents. A few safety tips to still consider….
- Is baby on his back to sleep?
- Is baby in a backwards facing carseat in the back seat of the car?
- Do you have a rectal thermometer with which you can check your baby’s temperature?
(if 100.4 degrees or higher, your baby should see a doctor immediately) - Is your baby always attended on a changing table, couch, bath or bed?
Screening Tools
Ages to Stages (CHADIS)
Visit Priorities (CHADIS)