Baby Development in Months 7 to 9

Baby Development

Your baby is now between seven and nine months old! The average weight gain for a child this age is about one pound per month, with boys usually weighing half a pound more than girls. Babies will average about half an inch of growth a month at this stage.

This time with your baby is quite amazing. During these months your baby is developing by leaps and bounds. By this time you should have your house completely baby-proofed because your little one is now becoming mobile!

When your baby is playing on the floor, he or she can roll back and forth at will. As your baby is held upright he or she may begin to bounce, strengthening legs for walking. Your baby may also begin to pull up on coffee tables or chairs and stand while holding on.

Keep your video camera out at all times, because babies are a lot of fun to watch during these months. They will often get up on hands and knees and rock back and forth, practicing for the first crawl. Get ready to see your baby start crawling, backwards first, then forwards.

Is your baby drooling, fussy or constantly chewing on things? Take a peek in his or her mouth for signs of a first tooth!

You may also hear your baby putting two syllables together, such as dada and mama. Imagine the joy you will feel hearing mama for the first time. Babies will begin to understand words too, like "bottle", "no" or "blankie".

Try to read to your baby. He will probably only focus on a picture or two briefly and then try to eat the book, but this is a wonderful time to introduce your child to reading.

Offer your baby a sippy cup during these months. She should be able to hold it and will try to drink like a big girl. As a matter of fact, your baby can now reach for objects using her entire hand.

Playing peek-a-boo can be extra special when your child begins to hold a blanket over his face to surprise you! Watch your little girl put a blankie over her head and pull it down quickly, just waiting for you to jump. Expect giggles galore during this sometimes never-ending game.

Naps are usually two to three times a day, lasting about one to two hours each. Your baby may also begin to wake during the night crying.

As your baby grows, she understands many more things around her. Words become familiar and "Mommy" is usually preferred over anyone else. As a matter of fact, the fear of strangers may be developing at this stage. She will love watching herself in the mirror and will try to get attention by making sounds or babbling.

You can help your baby to develop mentally by talking as you do things, singing songs and playing vocal games. Ask your baby a question and pause for an answer. Begin naming common objects and repeat the sounds your baby makes. Give your baby toys that he can manipulate such as stackers or knobs and buttons.