From only being able to flail it, your baby learns to crawl on their arms and legs at around the eight-month mark. This is one of the most daunting periods because they might get out of your sight and thus, out of safety any second.
Therefore, it is important that you keep your eyes on them all the time. However, their ability to recognize emotions and simple words might make it easier for you to teach them what is bad. You might warn them not to go in a certain direction. Puzzles and maze toys will also hold their attention in one place if they are crawling all over the place.
How much has your baby grown in the eight-month?
By the time your baby is eight months old, they are weighing anywhere between 8 to 10 kilograms. They have been gaining about 500 grams every month for the past 3 months.
Your baby’s gross motor skills
They are constantly moving around the room and grabbing things. They will try to know how things work and pull on things.
Their newfound ability to hold and grab things with coordination means that they will be interested in eating on their own. Allow them to use their hands rather than a spoon which will be much easier. This will make them feel as if they are in control of their actions and build their confidence.
How will your baby communicate?
Your eight-month-old is adding tricks to his communication skills. Although they don’t know the meaning of the words, they might say some simple words like ma-ma or da-da. Your baby will make adorable sounds to get your attention when you are around.
They will also start to use non-verbal body language such as waving you goodbye or shaking their head ‘yes’ or ‘no’.
If your baby hears some interesting words, they will try to copy the sound even though they will not have an idea of what you have said. Continue reading to your baby to help them develop language.
What should you feed your baby?
By now, your baby is probably enjoying a side of cereals, mashed-up vegetables and fruits along with their daily 800 ml of milk. Try to feed them food from all the nutrition groups. Give them interesting flavors to try and see what they like and dislike.
Avoid food that might be a choking hazard to babies and make sure that any solid that you give your baby is properly cleaned and cooked.
Social and emotional skills at this age?
Has your constantly babbling baby suddenly become shut off and almost antisocial around strangers? If you have been worrying about it, just know that it is normal for a child to feel anxious around strangers during this time of development.
They are learning to socialize and become comfortable around the environment but you will have to let them learn at their own pace. Try to be there and make them feel secure as they learn to become independent.
Best toys for this age?
Some toys recommended for babies this age are:
- Soft blocks
- Teething ring
- Puzzles
- Mazes
- Colorful books
How much will your baby sleep?
Their sleep schedules will remain pretty much the same as last month. You might notice that their schedules will get more and more predictable with age. Expect your baby to take one or two naps during the day.
