Their 9th Month

What to expect during your baby's ninth month of life and what you can do to support them

Developmental Milestones

Expect your baby to be very chatty. They are likely babbling familiar sounds (such as dadada or mamama)

This is the average age that babies start to crawl, so by their ninth month, your baby is likely crawling or getting very close.

They can probably stand while holding onto a couch or table. You might even start to see them begin "crusing" or stepping side to side while holding onto furniture

You might have noticed that your baby is starting to grasp smaller objects with their thumb and pointer finger. This is called a pincer grasp and is an important developmental milestone for fine motor skills!

What can you do to support your baby?

Try some messy hands! Use corn meal, pudding, jello or flour (anything that will not be toxic if they put it in their mouthes) and let them explore and experiment with the different textures. Don't be afraid to let them get a little messy as they learn more about textures - it is great for their brain development!
- Tip: Put down a disposable table cloth for easier clean up!

Play with toys such as stuffed animals or fake food that requires imagination. This is the perfect time for baby to start learning how to be creative and have pretend play!

Feeding and Sleeping

Baby probably has three solid meals a day and two or three small snacks during the day. Try and stick to non-processed food with no additional sugar or salt. Things like bananas, peppers or sweet potatoes are great for baby!

Finger foods are now perfect for baby because she has her pincer grasp! Try small pieces of food that she can pinch to pick up

You will still be breastfeeding every 3 - 4 hours or baby might take roughly 24 -32 oz of formula every day. Each baby is a little different but they will let you know if they are still hungry.

Some sleep progression during the ninth month is common. Baby is learning lots of new skills and she might be more active during the night. This will likely change within the next couple of months!

Click the picture above to learn more about solid foods!

Warning Signs To Watch For

By 9 months your baby will be beginning to or already be doing many physical things, which make this a crucial time to notice if they seem to have developmental delays. If baby is not doing the following things talk with your pediatrician:

Babbling simple sounds like mamama or bababa

Doesnt respond to her name or look where you point to something

Sits mostly by herself or put weight in her legs when held upright

Pass toys between her hands

Doesnt recognize familiar faces