For You and Your Baby
Their 5th Month
What to expect during your baby's fifth month of life and what you can do to support them
Developmental Milestones
They might be bringing their hands together and should be grasping with both hands and holding things with all their fingers
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They will begin either rolling over or rolling side to side to try and get momentum to roll completely. Rolling tummy to back might be easier for your baby, but this can differ with every child!
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Two words! Object Permanence! This is when your baby knows that something still exists even if they can not see the object and will begin to develop during this time.
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Test if your baby has this skill by showing them something then hiding it with a blanket. If they reach towards/under the blanket to find the hidden object they most likely have developed this skill!
What can you do to support your baby?
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To give your baby a full sensory experience, head outside! Let them lay or sit on a soft patch of grass, expereicene the sounds and sights around her! Just make sure to pack a hat or SPF to ensure baby's skin is protected!
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Turn on different types of music and see how baby responds. Help them move their arms or legs to the rhythm of the music.
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Baby is growing stronger, so make sure there are lots of toys around that can serve as a motivation to move and reach!
Feeding and Sleeping
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Baby might have shown the signs of being ready for solid food (which you can review here) and their pediatrician has given you the go ahead to begin incorporating solid foods along with formula or breastmilk
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If you have begun feeding baby soilds, make sure you are taking it slow and following their cues.
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You may be able to give baby a little water with their solid foods, but make sure they are not filling up on it (confirm with your doctor about how much to give them)
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5 month old babies are still taking roughly 4 oz of formula six times a day or breastfeeding every 3 - 4 hours
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Sleep at this age may range: roughly 10 hours of sleep per night and 5 hours during the day spaced out between 3 naps is average. It really depends on your babys sleep needs.
Click the picture above to learn more about the transition to solid foods!
Warning Signs To Watch For
By five months your baby should be a shaker and a mover. You should notice that they are beginning to roll (or try to!) and may be on the verge of creeping or crawling. If your baby is not showing signs of being interested in movement or is not able to sit up without significant support, this may be a sign of developmental delay.
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Dont be afraid to talk with your pediatrician and voice any concerns you might have!
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CAR SEAT TIP:
Make sure you are checking that your car seat is appropriate for your baby. As they grow you might need to look into a new car seat to fit them safely!