- Red and swollen gums
- Being more irritable or fussier than usual
- Excessive saliva or drooling
- A tendency to bite or chew objects
Baby Care Tips
Once your baby hits the four-month mark, you can try giving them breast milk in a bottle if you have been exclusively breastfeeding them until this point. Also, your baby still does not need to drink water yet. So feeding them with formula milk or breastmilk is more than enough for their nutrition at this stage.
Skin conditions like rashes or cradle caps may also start to come about during this month so make sure to use products that are unscented and gentle enough for your baby’s skin.

Sleep
A four-month-old baby may be already sleeping throughout the night and spend around 4-6 hours napping during the day. However, if you find that there’s a shift in your baby’s sleeping patterns, then they may be experiencing “sleep regression.” Sleep regressions happen when your baby is going through a growth spurt.
Take comfort in the fact that this period of irregular sleeping patterns is normal and only lasts for a few days.
Baby Health & Safety
During their fourth month, your baby is scheduled to receive vaccinations namely:
- Rotavirus oral vaccine
- DTaP (diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus) shot
- Polio shot
Since your baby will pick up the habit of putting things in their mouth, it is best to keep small objects away from them to eliminate the risk of choking. Also, make sure to provide toys that will not cause any injury to your baby.
What Can I Do to Help My Baby Grow?
Your baby will be more responsive to playtime during this month. Playing also encourages the development of language and communication skills in your baby. During playtime, your baby will enjoy hearing from you reading aloud or singing to them. Other ways to encourage play are:
- Placing your baby in front of a mirror. Watch them try to talk to their own reflection, or even smile at it.
- Provide brightly colored toys, as your baby will be able to see vivid colors the best.
What to Watch Out For and When to See a Doctor
It is normal to have concerns about your child’s health and development, especially if they are showing signs or behaviors that seem abnormal. Consult your physician if:
- Your baby does not recognize you.
- Your baby is unable to make eye contact.
- Your baby is not trying to talk or make noises with their voice.
- Your baby does not turn to you when you speak.
- Your baby is not startled by loud noises.
Your baby’s fourth month of life is definitely a big milestone for both you and your baby. If you are observing any unusual behavior in your baby, or if you feel like they are not reaching the appropriate 4-month-old baby development milestones at this stage, then it is best to consult your baby’s pediatrician.
Learn more about Parenting here.
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