9 Months

Welcome to the 9-month milestone!
Your baby is on the move and exploring more than ever. Many babies at this age are crawling, pulling up to stand, and showing strong curiosity about their surroundings. You might hear new sounds as they practice communicating and see more personality shining through. This is also a key time for developing routines around sleep, meals, and play. Below, you’ll find helpful resources to support your baby’s learning, mobility, and growing independence during this exciting stage.

Activity Corner

You can help encourage fine motor skill development in your little one by doing pincer grasp practice! This involves offering graspable objects for your baby to lift with their forefinger and thumb. Ensure that the offered toys are safe by having no small
parts, no sharp points, and are non-toxic.

Tod-Tidbit

Nearly all children less than 18 months have flat feet! Your child doesn’t need to wear shoes until they are walking, mainly to help prevent accidental injuries. For more information, click here.

Healthy Habits

Children should see a dentist by the time they’re 1-year old or 6-months after their first tooth eruption. Following this initial visit, your child should have regular visits to the
dentist every six months. This will help keep their teeth cavity-free, while teaching them the importance of healthy oral habits! To learn to clean your child’s teeth, click here.

Struggling after having a baby? You’re not alone.

Postpartum Support International offers free, confidential help for parents dealing with postpartum depression, anxiety, and other perinatal mental health challenges. Whether you need someone to talk to or want to connect with local resources, support is just a click away.

9 Month Milestones

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Download the CDC Milestone Checklists

Want a printable version? The CDC Developmental Milestone Checklists provide age-specific milestones from 2 months to 5 years, helping you track your child's growth, learning, communication, and movement skills. These checklists are a great tool to use at home and can help guide conversations with your healthcare provider.

Download CDC Milestone Checklists (PDF)

Track Milestones on Your Phone

The free CDC Milestone Tracker app makes it easy to monitor your child's development wherever you are. Use interactive milestone checklists, save photos and notes, receive tips to support development, and prepare questions for healthcare visits—all from your smartphone.

Download the CDC Milestone Tracker App

Concerned About Your Child's Development?

You know your child best. If your baby is not meeting one or more developmental milestones, has lost skills they once had, or if you have any concerns about their development, don’t wait, trust your instincts and seek support.

Start by talking with your child’s healthcare provider. Share your concerns and ask about developmental screening. Early identification and support can make a big difference.

Don’t have a family doctor or pediatrician? Visit our Parent Resources page to find local services, healthcare supports, and developmental resources available to families in Ottawa and Ontario

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Remember: every child develops at their own pace, but acting early when you have concerns can help ensure your child gets the support they need.

Parenting Ressources