Development Stages for a 5-Month-Old Baby

By the time your infant reaches his five-month birthday, he has already learned to do so much. He is now able to lift his head, giggle, recognize caregivers, mimic facial expressions and more. He will continue to grow and learn throughout his fifth month.

Hearing

Your five-month-old will be able to tell where sounds are coming from, and he will turn toward them. He may also be able to recognize the sound of his own name.

Emotions

Your baby will begin to show various emotions during the fifth month. He will also begin extending his arms to you when he wants to be picked up.

Sitting

At five months, your baby may be able to get to a sitting position from lying down. It is a good idea to make sure he is on a padded surface during this time, because he is likely to topple over.

Stranger Anxiety

Your baby may begin to experience stranger anxiety during the fifth month. He may grow fearful if a strange person approaches him and become clingier toward you.

Cause and Effect

Your five-month-old may begin understanding the concept of cause and effect. For example, he may drop an item just to watch you pick it up. Be prepared for him to play these "games" repetitively.

Your Baby is an Individual

Keep in mind that these are just general guidelines and that every baby develops differently. You may notice some of these milestones before or after the fifth month, and this is nothing to be alarmed about. If you have concerns about your baby's development, consult with his doctor.