Your Baby's 5th Month

Raspberries and Bubbles

Baby has discovered many sounds that she can make with her tongue and lips. You may observe her delighting in bubbles and razzing sounds, sometimes even as she drinks or eats. These sounds may make you laugh or turn away, but they are the precursors for language and communication. She is exploring what sounds she can make, and you probably hear the same sounds over and over. She is practicing! (Learn more about Baby's language milestones in the first year.)

Developing Sense of Humor

Another precious sound often heard around this time is Baby's first laugh. Without knowing, you may do something silly that tickles her funny bone and out come the first chuckles. These are priceless sounds that most parents want to hear again and again. Your wandering fingers all over her pudgy belly, accompanied by the inevitable parental "gitchee-gitchee-goo" are bound to entice more giggles. Another way to make a baby laugh is to laugh back at her jokes. If she thinks you or she has done something especially silly, laugh with her. There is always time for a few shared belly laughs with your baby.

Does your baby smile when you sneeze? Perhaps because of the funny sound or the contorted expression on your face. If you repeat the sound that you just made, "Ha-Choo," it sounds a lot like a popular vowel-consonant combination of babies, "Ah-Goo." Some babies repeat this sound over and over. Say it back. She'll love the attention and think she is having an important conversation. Try to figure out if she is using a particular sound when she is hungry, tired, or wants to play. These are important sounds and she is learning how to use to tell you what she needs.

Physical Development (Large Motor)

Around this time, a lot of babies enjoy being put into a sitting position. Baby loves this vantage point as she can watch her own body and all the interesting things around her. She probably has a somewhat curved back and may put her hands in front of her to prop herself up. She is getting stronger every day.

Occasionally she may straighten up or let go of one hand to grab a toy. You may want to surround her with soft cushions in case she topples over. She will be thrilled when you sit beside her. Watch how proud she is to be in the same position as her parents. Now she is ready for sitting in the high chair and joining the family at meals. This is a major accomplishment that makes a baby feel like part of the family. (Check out what sitting without assistance looks like!)