Your Baby: Months 4 to 6
Rolling, sitting, solids, and the first real social engagement
Month 4: The Social Awakening
The fourth month is often described as the golden age of babyhood. Your baby is smiling, cooing, and eager to interact with anyone who makes eye contact. They can hold their head steady, push up on their arms during tummy time, and may start rolling from front to back. Sleep often improves around this time, with some babies sleeping 6 to 8 hour stretches at night. Total sleep is about 14 to 16 hours per day with two to three naps. Feedings are still all liquid, about 6 to 8 times per day.
Month 5: Reaching and Exploring
Your baby is becoming more active and engaged with their surroundings. They reach for toys, bring objects to their mouth, and explore everything within reach. They may start passing objects from one hand to the other. Social interaction is still a favorite activity, and your baby will babble in long sentences of vowel and consonant sounds. Sleep stays around 15 hours total with two to three naps. Most babies still get all nutrition from breast milk or formula, though some parents begin thinking about solids.
Month 6: Sitting Up and First Foods
The sixth month is a period of rapid change. Many babies can sit with support and may start sitting independently for brief periods. Some begin crawling or scooting. This is also the month when most babies are ready for their first solid foods. Look for signs of readiness: sitting with support, losing the tongue-thrust reflex, showing interest in food. Start with single-grain iron-fortified cereal or pureed vegetables and fruits. Breast milk or formula remains the primary source of nutrition. Sleep is about 15 hours total with two to three naps.