Your Brilliant Baby in Week 14: Understanding Cause and Effect

Beginning now, and continuing throughout her childhood, your little one will experiment with people and objects to see what kinds of effects her actions and behaviors cause—and she'll remember well those associations. In time she'll learn that playing patty-cake brings smiles and applause, and that pushing the buttons on the TV's remote control not only changes channels but also elicits irritation on mom or dad's face.

In these trying moments, move the remote (or whatever else she's experimenting with) out of reach, and remember this: A child's determination to learn how she can affect change in her environment may override her interest in pleasing you. These cause-and-effect trials help make her life predictable, so—while annoying—they're important for her development. Regularly offer safe items you don't mind her messing around with, and she'll reward you by passing many pleasant hours, demonstrating some amazing new skills.

Your Week 14 Toolbox

Related skills and topics this week include …

• What's happening in Baby's fourth month?
• Use our Development Tracker to check off your child's 4-7 month milestones.
• Here's what our pediatrician says you might be worried about this month.