As your baby grows, you’ll notice them transitioning from sleepy newborns focused mainly on eating and sleeping to curious little explorers eager to grab toys, rattles, and even their favorite lovey. The moment babies discover their hands and feet—often accompanied by a delightful “Hello, down there!”—marks the beginning of their grabbing journey. Once they start, they won’t want to stop!
When Should My Baby Start Grabbing Things?
Your little one will pass through several stages as they learn to interact with toys and other objects. Here’s what you can expect during their first year:
- By Month 4: Babies will typically begin reaching for objects with one hand. At this age, they can also hold and shake a toy or swing at dangling items.
- By Month 6: Most babies will try to grasp items that are slightly out of reach and can pass objects from one hand to the other.
- By Month 9: Your 9-month-old will likely become adept at moving toys smoothly between their hands and may start using the pincer grasp to pick up smaller objects.
- By 12 Months: As they approach their first birthday, your almost-toddler will be able to bang two toys together and engage more with their environment.
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Summary
In summary, your baby will typically start grabbing toys and objects between 4 to 12 months, with significant milestones at each stage. By actively engaging them with toys, encouraging exploration, and leveraging supportive resources, you can help nurture their development.