More Motor Skills!

Your baby is 43 weeks old today and within this tenth month he has developed a neat pincer grasp.  The neat pincer grasp can be described as a baby using the pad of the index finger and thumb to pick up tiny objects or pieces of food.  As your baby is able to use a more complex grasp, it enables him to pick up very small things and put them into his mouth so be aware of what is on the floor. Your baby’s curiosity will get the best of him.  Especially if you have older children, it’s very hard to see everything that has been dropped or left out, These items can become very interesting for your baby.  My elder daughter has left small pieces of crayons and colorful paper clips all over the place and my baby has found each and every one of them.  Just be extra careful because your baby’s new skill can become a potential safety issue. 

Another skill that will emerge this month is in regards to your baby’s social skills.  He has enjoyed playing peek-a-boo with you – that game is highly recommended because it really fosters the bond between parent and child.  When you establish eye contact with your baby, see his anticipation of opening your hands while saying “peek-a-boo” and the excitement that follows makes your heart melt because there is nothing like having fun with your baby!  Pat-a-cake is another game that your baby is able to start playing with you at this stage.  He has the motor skills to clap along while you sing and he will love the interaction with you.

Curiosity will continue to drive your baby and he will soon master these skills that he has developed.  He takes in a lot of what he observes so in the coming months he will imitate more and get into more mischief!