As your baby enters the fourth month, you may find this period to be one of the most enjoyable phases of early childhood. Many parents cherish these moments, often referred to as the golden age of babyhood. Your little one is now eager to engage in social interactions, whether it’s with you or visitors, leading to delightful moments filled with laughter. Here’s what to expect as your 4-month-old grows and develops.
Developmental Highlights
Sleep Patterns:
By the time your baby reaches 4 months, most infants sleep between 10 to 12 hours at night, typically waking for one or two feedings. Daytime naps generally span three to five hours, often broken into two or three shorter naps.
Feeding Guidelines:
Breastfeeding mothers should aim for their babies to consume about 24 to 32 ounces of breast milk daily, divided into approximately five or six feedings. For formula-fed babies, the recommended intake is similar, with around 24 to 32 ounces per day spread over five feedings of 6 to 8 ounces each. Some parents may introduce solid foods at this stage; however, it’s generally recommended to wait until your baby is 6 months old. If you choose to start solids now, limit them to just 1 tablespoon of food twice daily.
Sensory Development:
At this age, your baby’s ability to distinguish between different colors is developing. They may particularly notice variations in shades, especially red and green, and could start to show a preference for certain colors.
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To Summarize:
As your 4-month-old grows, they will likely experience significant developments in sleeping, feeding, and sensory abilities. This time is perfect for fostering social interactions and enjoying the delightful personality traits that begin to shine through. Whether you’re exploring paths to parenthood or simply cherishing these precious months, the journey is undoubtedly filled with joy and discovery.