9 Months

What Most Babies Do by This Age

Social

Is shy, clingy, or fearful around strangers
Show several facial expressions, like happy, sad, angry, and surprised
Looks when you call her name
Reacts when you leave (looks, reaches for you, or cries)
Smiles or laughs when you play peek-a-boo

Problem Solving

Looks for objects when they drop out of sight (like his spoon or toy)
Bangs two things together

Language and Communication

Makes different sounds like “mamamama” and “bababababa”
Lifts arms up to be picked up

Movement

Gets to a sitting position by herself
Moves things from one hand to her other hand
Uses fingers to “rake” food towards himself
Sits without support

Tips and Activities: What You Can Do for Your 9 month old

As your baby’s first teacher, you can help his or her learning and brain development. Try these simple tips and activities in a safe way. Talk with your baby’s doctor and teachers if you have questions or for more ideas on how to help your baby’s development.

Repeat your baby’s sounds and say simple words using those sounds. For example, if your baby says “bababa,” repeat “bababa,” then say “book.”
Place toys on the ground or on a play mat a little out of reach and encourage your baby to crawl, scoot, or roll to get them. Celebrate when she reaches them.
Teach your baby to wave “bye–bye” or shake his head “no.” For example, wave and say “bye–bye” when you are leaving. You can also teach simple baby sign language to help your baby tell you what he wants before he can use words.