Month Seven

Reviewed by: Dr. Travis Satnarine BSc. MBBS.

Your baby can move, and he is curious, this month is all about safety.

 Baby’s growth and development

At 7-month-olds your baby boy is around 18.3 pounds, while a baby girl is 16.8 pounds, with a length of 27.2 inches and a girl is 26.5 inches, respectively.

During this time, your baby’s vision continues to improve and can now see colours, being outdoor fascinates him. The area of the brain responsible for processing sound has developed, toys with noises will engage him for longer periods and he will try copying sounds you make. Your baby will be sitting up now for longer periods and he will enjoy standing while supported.

Your baby may be constipated with the introduction of solids be sure to talk to your doctor as this can be painful for the baby and make you as parents anxious.

Milestones

Responds to his name

Explores with hands and mouth

May start crawling (6-10months)

• 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

Many paediatricians will not schedule a seven-month visit unless it is necessary. Until your next visit, keep writing down your questions and concerns and if it is urgent, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor.

Interesting things about Month 7

A seven-month-old may be sleeping longer hours now.

Your baby will stare and grab for the things you are eating. This is amusing to most parents. They will also poke you, scratch you and pull at your hair, so be ready for it.

Baby is going to show a keen interest in your mobile phone and try grabbing it from your hands.

Advice for Moms & New Parents

A feeding chair is helpful at this point and plastic bids (so much easier to clean)

Designate a space for baby, maybe you can block this area to help protect him.

Keep reading and playing games, your baby may even have a favourite book or toy at this point.

Safety is especially important at this stage, make a checklist and ensure that everything is ticked off. You will have to protect baby from sharp edges, major falls, household poisons and small objects.

Remember feed baby pureed and mashed food to prevent any possibility of choking

Teething biscuits can be introduced this month, be sure to read the labels. The wafer type biscuit is recommended for 7-month-old babies.

Reminders for this month:

• Take Baby’s seven-month-old photo.
• Write down your questions and concerns.
• Search for games to play with your baby at this stage.
• Remember to talk to your baby as your voice may be calming, read to your baby, praise your baby, cuddle and give lots of attention.
• Take care of yourself and get some sleep.