Baby Milestones

Your month-by-month companion

Month 4

Baby may roll for the first time and shows increasing interest in the world. Sleep regression is common.

Quick Reference

Sleep

12-16 hours

Feeding

4-6 oz (120-180 ml) per feeding, 24-32 oz (710-950 ml)/day

Naps

3-4 naps

Wake Window

1.5-2.5 hours

Talk to your doctor if baby...

•Does not watch things as they move
•Does not smile at people
•Does not bring hands to mouth
•Cannot hold head steady
•Does not make sounds
•Does not push down with legs when feet are on a hard surface

Is this the 4-month sleep regression?

Yes - the 4-month regression is real and affects most babies. They're learning to link sleep cycles, causing more frequent wakings. It typically lasts 2-6 weeks. Stick to consistent sleep routines and avoid creating new sleep associations you don't want long-term.

When can I start solids?

Current AAP and WHO guidelines recommend waiting until 6 months. Signs baby might be ready: sits with support, good head control, shows interest in food, has lost tongue-thrust reflex. Starting before 4 months is not recommended; between 4-6 months, discuss with your pediatrician.

Baby suddenly refuses the bottle - what do I do?

Bottle refusal around 4 months is common as the reflexive suck becomes voluntary. Try different bottle nipples, temperatures, positions, and have someone else offer it. Stay calm - your stress can transfer to baby. If baby is breastfeeding, they're getting enough.

My baby rolls now - should I stop swaddling?

Yes, stop swaddling immediately once baby can roll to their stomach (even if they've only done it once). Transition to a sleep sack instead. Keep placing baby on their back, but if they roll during sleep, that's okay.

Why is baby so distracted when nursing?

At 4-5 months, babies become very aware of their environment and pull off to look around. This is normal development, not low supply. Try nursing in a dark, quiet room or using a nursing cover to reduce distractions.

How many naps should my 4-month-old take?

Most 4-month-olds take 3-4 naps totaling 4-5 hours, with wake windows of 1.5-2.5 hours. Nap lengths vary wildly at this age. Focus on not keeping baby awake too long rather than strict schedule.

ExpectedWhat most babies do
  • •Hold head steady without support when held upright
  • •Push up onto elbows/forearms during tummy time
  • •Bring hands to mouth reliably
  • •Hold objects placed in hands
  • •Smile spontaneously, especially at people
  • •Make cooing sounds (oooo, aahh)
  • •Turn head toward your voice
VariesWhat some babies do
  • •Roll from tummy to back
  • •Reach for toys (may not grasp yet)
  • •Chuckle when you play with them
  • •Open mouth when seeing bottle or breast (anticipation)
  • •Bear weight on legs when held upright

What's Next

Month 5 · Month 5 typically brings sitting with support, reaching for objects, and recognizing their own name.