Most of what a newborn does in the first few weeks of life is related to reflexes they are born with. An example of a reflex is the Babinski reflex, you’ll see this when the sole of your baby’s foot is stroked, their toes fan out and their foot turns inward. As your baby matures, certain reflexes begin to disappear as voluntary movement takes over.
Activities at 2 months
By month two, your baby can participate in tummy time to strengthen neck, trunk and shoulder muscles. Babies are lifting up their heads more as they are lying on their tummies so be sure to give plenty of tummy time practice. Not all babies like tummy time so expect some resistance at the beginning. Make it fun for them by putting a colorful board book or toy in front of them to look at, or get down on the floor with them so they can see your face.
Activities at 4 months
Development that happens by 4 months typically includes:
- Increased use of hands – babies may start grasping objects on purpose and bringing them to their mouths
- Waving arms to bat at things
- Kicking legs
Around 4 months, you’ll notice your baby has better head control. Their head is steady with little support when being held. At this age, when you hold your baby upright with their feet resting on the floor, they will push down and straighten their legs as though trying to stand on their own, maybe even bending their knees and trying to bounce. Hold on tight because they don’t have the coordination to do this on their own and they are excited to practice this new skill over and over again.
Activities at 6 months
Development that happens by 6 months typically includes:
- Pushing up with arms and shoulders when placed on tummy
- Kicking arms and legs while on tummy
- Rolling over from tummy to back
- Improved grasping skills
Your baby has come a long way in 6 months, progressing from mostly instinctive, reflexive movements to using hands, arms and legs with purpose. Get ready for the next phase – your baby on the move!
Learn more
- Play games to boost your baby’s brain development
- Babies learn while on the move
- Why your baby needs to play and explore
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Posted In Children's, Family Medicine, Parenting
