How to Stimulate a 4-Month-Old's Physical Development

At four months, many babies have learned to move around a bit. So when you put your baby on her tummy, she might edge forward by pushing with her feet or pulling with her arms. Enjoy helping her get more mobile. (The following information has been adapted from Dr. Segal's book series, "Your Child at Play.")

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Baby Quilts
• Baby Toys

1. Spread a quilt on the grass and put her on her stomach. Help her practice rolling over by gently raising the quilt and rolling her from her stomach to her back.
2. Place toys just out of her reach if she's learned to move by squirming or crawling. She'll learn that she has to wiggle and reach to get to the toy.
3. Practice a frog kick to strengthen her legs and encourage her to crawl: While she's on her tummy, bend her knees, then separate her legs as you let her knees straighten, and next pull her legs back together.
4. Lift your baby by the waist, jostle her up and down, then hold her upright in a standing position. You'll get exercise together.
5. Place a small pillow under your baby's tummy while she's on a rug. This will strengthen her neck and arm muscles.

Tips & Warnings

• Contrary to popular belief, standing a baby on her feet before she can successfully bear her weight won't make her bowlegged.
• Let your baby be your guide when selecting activities: What new skills is she working on? What sorts of toys engage her attention? What makes her smile?
• If a particular activity seems stressful or frustrating, stop and give it a try another day.
• Remember that all babies develop at different speeds, usually with spurts and plateaus.
• Consult with your pediatrician if you have any concerns about your baby's development.