Month Five

Reviewed by: Dr. Travis Satnarine BSc. MBBS.

Your little person is developing so quickly, and the 6-month mark is rapidly approaching. You are rooting for your baby, cheering him on as he tries to sit up, communicating with him and encouraging him every step of the way.

Baby’s growth and development

In month five, a baby boy’s average weight is 16.6 pounds with a length of 25.9 inches, while a baby girl’s average weight is 15.2 pounds with a length of 25.2 inches. Remember that it does not mean something is wrong with your baby if he/she doesn’t fit into the above weight/length. If your baby is growing at a healthy rate, you need not worry.

Teething often begins during this month.

Your baby’s ability to differentiate between colours is improving, your baby can now recognise and distinguish between bold colours, subtle colours and pastels. He is also much better at following objects and enjoys looking at moving objects.

Your baby will also be responding to sounds and turning his head towards the sound, encourage him to listen and follow the sounds.

Milestones

Reacts and follows sounds

Transfers objects from one hand to the other

Supports body weight on legs when held in a standing position

• Milestones are just a guide; babies do different things are different times. If you have concerns talk about it at the next visit with your pediatrician.

Health Care

There is no scheduled doctor’s appointment for month five, unless there is a concern with the baby or the doctor has recommended a visit during this time. Continue following the baby’s routine and listing your questions for the month six visit.

Interesting things about Month 5

Baby can now look at a toy and grab it using all fingers, he can also hold a bottle or cup when drinking but requires assistance. He is particularly strong, don’t be surprised if he tries to pull up to the standing position in the playpen.

Baby is now able to hold his/her head up and push himself up with his arms thereby lifting the chest of the floor, you may also notice your baby trying to get the knees just under him. This is the start of something new – you baby may soon begin crawling.

Baby starts bringing both hands together, he will start passing toys from one hand to the other.

Baby’s attitude will be more apparent now, he will certainly show you what pleases him and what does not.

Advice for Moms & New Parents

Safety is your number one priority, look for anything that can choke baby, little pieces on toys that can become detached, tags, stickers, or anything loose that he can grab and place in his mouth.  Safety tips for parents are good to learn.

Baby will soon be ready to start eating fruits and vegetables at month six, get the advice of your health care professional before introducing solids into your baby’s diet.

Invest in cloth books, so you can read to baby and he can also bite on them. Trying hiding toys and then showing them to the baby and playing peek-a-boo.

If your baby is showing signs of teething, invest in some teething rings or a damp rag helps, let him bite on it (be sure there are no loose threads).

Discuss the use of oral gels and other medications as pain relievers for baby during the teething period and use only the recommended amount.

Wash baby’s hand and toys often, as everything finds its way into the baby’s mouth at this point.

Reminders for this month:

• Take baby’s 5-month-old photo.
• Schedule your baby’s six-month appointment.
• Invest in some teething toys
• Discuss the introduction of solids into baby’s diet and pain relief medication for teething