A new baby develops rapidly during the first 12 months of life. By the fifth month, the baby will have accomplished many milestones. The household may have adjusted to life with a new baby by this time and things may be running smoothly. Caregivers may worry when their 5-month-old has not met the average milestones but every baby develops at a different rate. Concerns can be discussed with a health care professional to rule out developmental delays.
Physical Development
By 5 months old, a baby has more control over her muscles. She may be able to roll from her back to her side and even onto her tummy. She may also roll from her tummy to her back. HealthyChildren.org suggests that when a caregiver holds the baby under the arms she will be able to support her weight with her legs. The baby will be reaching for things with one hand and may be able to grasp some small toys that are in her reach. A pillow or the support of a caregiver can assist a baby in sitting up. Practicing in this manner can strengthen the back muscles and lead to sitting unassisted in the coming weeks or months.
Social Development
Caregivers may find the social development of their 5-month-old child to be very rewarding. The baby may exhibit various emotions or facial expressions. He may giggle, smile or seem interested in people around him. Looking into the mirror is entertaining for a baby at this age but he will have no idea that the little one he is seeing is himself. Playing with caregivers in various ways will make the baby very happy at this age. BabyCenter.com suggests the infant will turn towards interesting sounds.
Cognitive Development
A babies brain has been developing rapidly since birth but the results aren't always visible to caregivers. Some new milestones for the baby at this age that support cognitive development include working hard to get toys out of reach, learning about a toy by putting it in her mouth and feeling different textures of toys out of curiosity. Toys are interesting to a baby at this age. Rattles, shiny toys, reflective items and pictures of other babies can be stimulating and desirable. A baby may learn that a noisy toy can be shaken to repeat the sound. She may begin mimicking the mood of others by smiling, laughing or looking surprised.
