Let’s Make Some Noise

Baby is interested in making sounds and music with instruments, pots and pans or anything around the house that makes noise. She may wave her arms like she’s conducting an orchestra. She might bop, sway or “dance” with you holding her.

Babies grow and develop at their own pace, and you should ask your child’s doctor if you have questions or concerns.

9 Month Milestones

Look what I can do …

• Point at things
• Pass objects from hand to hand
• Bang two things together
• Drop or throw objects
• Cruise while holding onto furniture

How You Can Help

1. Make music. Baby can bang on a drum or hit keys on a keyboard. Experiment with toys that make different sounds and music. Fill an empty container with toys to make a shaker, or give baby a bowl and spoon for a drum.
2. Play with a ball. Roll and bounce a ball to baby. He may use a swatting motion to knock it away. Or, he might be able to pick it up and toss it. He may be very interested in seeing where the ball goes and what happens next. If you have a kid-friendly dog, baby may enjoy learning to play “fetch”!
3. Dance together. What kinds of music does your baby like? You might play classical, jazz, rock or country, and of course, your personal favorites. Dance around the room with baby so she can feel what it’s like to move to the music. You might play soothing music when baby needs to calm down or upbeat songs when she’s energized.
4. Let’s cruise! Your baby may be pulling up to standing while holding onto the couch, or pulling up with the help of your hands. Couch cushions and soft furniture can be a great place to practice. You might set up a row of plush toys or pillows for baby to explore while standing next to the couch.

Ask Questions

Your baby’s 9-month checkup is the perfect time to check baby’s growth and development. If you have concerns, your child’s doctor can help identify potential red flags early on, such as:

• Inability to sit with help
• Not babbling or making sounds like “babababa”
• Not showing signs of recognizing familiar people
• Not interacting or playing back-and-forth games such as peek-a-boo
• Not looking where you point