Progress Report – 5 months

I have progressed well to the following highlighted items in BLUE.

Now is usually the time when many parents attempt weaning. Do not be discouraged if baby reacts negatively to solids. It is quite a strange experience for baby’s taste buds after all. If baby doesn’t like it, leave weaning attempts aside for a while and try again a week or two later.

What your child might do:

Physically and mentally
• Experiments with concept of cause and effect
• More observant of small objects
• Able to see clearly across the room
• Uses hands more confidently (usually in a raking fashion) to bring objects closer
• Transfers objects from hand to hand
• Pushes away if he/ she dislikes what you are doing (wiping off drool, etc)
• Plays with toes
• Sits with support
• Rolls over from stomach to back
• May begin teething
• May be ready to wean

Language and emotions
Tries to imitate sounds

Feeding
Solids should be introduced very cautiously. Signs that baby is ready to begin weaning include:
• Being able to hold the head up well
• Being interested in solid food
• Having a good tongue reflex to push solid food in or out (to aid swallowing and prevent choking)
• Being able to open mouth to receive a spoon

Ideal toys for this age
• Squeeze toys with squeaky sounds
• Handheld musical toys such as toy telephones

Useful tips
Notice how much your child loves to watch you? Now is actually a great time to try baby sign language. Teaching baby simple signs with facial expressions and hand movements can help enhance communication skills even at this pre-verbal stage. Don’t worry if baby doesn’t pick it up right away. Consult a baby sign language book for more information (available at most bookstores).