Supporting Healthy Development: 4-8 Months
Babies 4-8 months old may explore objects with their mouth and by kicking, reaching, grasping, pulling, and letting go. They are learning lots of new skills!
Babies at this age can smile, laugh, coo, and reach out to touch and interact. They love to listen and respond to talking by imitating the sounds they hear.
Loving Relationships are the Foundation for healthy development 
Relationships teach young children how to form friendships, understand and communicate their feelings, and overcome challenges.
Starting at birth, the way that adults treat babies shapes what they learn and understand about themselves. Loving relationships make children feel safe, valued – and confident to explore and learn.
Through our relationships with children as they grow, we teach children to develop compassion for others and a sense of right and wrong.
How babies this age think, learn and interact
4-8 Months | Communication
Source: Colorado Early Learning & Development Guidelines, EarlyLearningCO.org
Tips to Support Your Baby’s Healthy Development
Provide warm, responsive care
Respond to your baby’s cues. As you learn what comforts them, what they like, and what routine works best, you can better meet their needs. Share this information with anyone who cares for your baby.
Encourage learning through play
Babies grow by exploring, interacting, and building relationships. Offer gentle support as they try new things—step in when they need help, but allow them space to discover. Celebrate their curiosity and share in the joy of what interests them.
Build a sense of safety and security
Simple moments like cuddling, rocking, singing, reading, and talking help your baby feel loved and valued. Even when they’re upset, responding with affection teaches them they are cared for and helps them develop trust and self-soothing skills over time.
Celebrate your culture every day
Consistent routines help babies feel safe, and weaving your family’s culture into those routines strengthens identity and confidence. Use books, music, stories, and traditions from your culture to build meaningful connections from the start.
More Resources for Parents & Caregivers of Babies 4-8 Months
Lifelong Mental Health Begins at Birth!
Strong social-emotional skills are part of the foundation for lifelong mental health. As adults, it’s our job to help children develop these skills.
Parenting Tips by Text
Lantern sends messages with tips and activities for caregivers of children that are targeted to your child’s age. Messages include information on development, health and safety, behavior, and more.
Activities to Build Your Baby's Brain!
Vroom Tips are fun activities that turn everyday moments into opportunities to build your child’s brain. You can receive Vroom Tips via the app, text message, email or social media.
