Maternal and child health - visit 5 - four month visit

This is one of a series of regular health and development checks for your baby, usually held when your baby is around four months old. Maternal and child health nurses work in partnership with families to care for babies and young children in the years before school.

What happens at this visit?#

At this visit, your baby’s growth, health and development will be reviewed. You may also be asked some questions about how your baby is developing, often as part of a structured parent questionnaire. It helps to complete any such questions before your visit if you can.

Remember, you and your nurse can also talk about any other issues or concerns that arise.

What is my baby doing at this stage?#

At around four months, your baby is curious about the world. They thrive on love, attention and interesting experiences that help them grow, learn and develop. They enjoy floor play, cuddles and plenty of eye contact.

At this age, your baby might be:

• reaching for toys or objects
• rolling from tummy to back
• lifting their head high when lying on their tummy on the floor
• beginning to follow people or objects with their eyes as they move around
• smiling and laughing

Please tell your nurse if your baby is:

• not lifting their head
• not responding to sounds
• not making any sounds
• not enjoying eye contact with you

Ideas to help your baby learn and develop#

• Show them different colours, shapes and textures.
• Play with them while they are on their tummy on the floor.
• Read to them, holding them close so they can see your face and the book.
• Talk to them about what you are doing, and listen for their reply.
• Smile and make funny faces together.

How often should I visit?#

You will be invited to see your maternal and child health nurse at a number of key ages and stages across your child’s early health, learning and development. The exact schedule varies from place to place, but checks are commonly offered at points such as the early weeks after birth and again at several months and years of age.

Families can usually also reach the service at other times by telephone or through a centre visit. Most centres offer a range of appointment times, including scheduled appointments and open consultation sessions.

Topics you might discuss at this visit#

• safe sleeping
• food in the first year of life
• playgroups and how to join one
• how to share books and stories with your baby
• how play supports learning and development
• immunisations
• your baby’s safety
• family relationships and wellbeing

Key points#

• This check usually takes place when your baby is around four months old.
• Your baby’s growth, health and development will be reviewed.
• Tell your nurse about anything that concerns you, including if your baby is not responding to sounds, making sounds or enjoying eye contact.
• Simple play, talking and reading all help your baby learn and develop.

Where to get help#