4 Months
Welcome to the 4-month milestone! At this age, your baby is becoming more curious about the world around them — smiling more, discovering their hands, and starting to babble. You might notice them holding their head up better during tummy time and even beginning to roll over. This is a fun stage full of rapid development, and below you’ll find helpful information and resources to support your baby’s growth, play, sleep, and nutrition during this exciting time.
Activity Corner
When holding your baby, you can gradually offer less support by
placing your hands lower on their trunk, helping them to sit up while being supported! This can help them enhance their core muscle development. You can offer them some toys to grasp, shake, and mouth while sitting up. Make sure the toys don’t have small parts, sharp points, and are non- toxic!
Tod-Tidbit
Babies can start having teeth as early as 4 months old! For more information on local dental ressources for you and your child, click here.
Healthy Habits
Avoid the use of over the counter medicines (aside from fever and pain relievers) for coughs and colds. While these medicines may help reduce symptoms of coughs and colds, they do not treat the underlying disease and may have serious side effects in young children.
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.
4 Month Milestones
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.
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.
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.
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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.
Sources & References
The information on this page was developed using current evidence, clinical guidelines, and trusted healthcare resources.