9 months

Your baby is learning to …

• Move from their tummy to sitting by themselves
• Understand that their reflection is an image of self
• Understand more words than they can say (about 20 or so at this age)
• Crawl and move around freely
• Say their first clear words

I Can Sit Up

Your baby may be starting to move from lying on their tummy to a sitting position by themselves.  Encourage baby with lots of positive comments and cuddles when they achieve their goal.

I Recognise Myself

This is where it is great to start introducing “dress ups” for your baby to try. Babies at this age love you to put on hats, wigs or hair bows when looking at themselves in a mirror.  Encourage your baby to copy hand movements and facial expressions during this time to promote a sense of self as well as wonder and fun.

Understanding Your Words

Babies at this age are able to understand many more words than they can say.  Through continually talking, singing and reading to your baby, you not only promote their language development in terms of their speech, but you increase their vocabulary as well.

Getting Around

Babies need outside time as well as inside time.  Ensure your baby receives opportunities to crawl and explore different environments.  If you do not have a safe outdoor space at your house, take your baby to a local park.  Ensure that your baby is supervised at all times.

My Words

Your baby may be starting to say clearly recognisable words.  This is always a special and exciting time.  Offer your baby lots of encouragement to continue the trend. Repeating your babies words is a great way to say well done and encourage them to try again!

Close This Window & Return to Developmental Milestones