This is another big month for locomotion, as your baby starts to really move around on his own, with a baby-certified "scout" or "I am pulling myself around" stage.. Although most babies naturally go through this scooting around phase, some will only crawl briefly before learning how to walk.

In a matter of weeks, your baby may also begin trying to pull up and stand alone, or move into a sitting position from lying belly-down.

What you can do:

Your baby will spend lots of time learning about objects, and not always by accident. Your baby can now use existing skills together to learn new things. As manual dexterity improves, some babies can be allowed to try feeding themselves. Provide a cup and spoon but don't worry if your baby gets a little messy. Have fun. And watch your baby explore the wonderful world of food.

This month, some babies may:

• "Rake" a raisin toward them on the floor and pick it up as their coordination skills and dexterity continue to develop.
• Clap and bang objects together as their muscle coordination improves.
• Use their arms to invite someone to pick them up.
• Reach for the spoon when you feed them at mealtimes.
• Turn away when no longer hungry.
• Babble random consonants ("di, ba, ma").
• Understand the meaning of "no."
• Although your baby may understand the meaning of other words by now, the word "no" is key in that by understanding it, your baby also understands the actions required when hearing it.
• Understand a rough idea of "in" and "out." This is the first instance of babies recognizing a spatial relationship. For instance, baby will pile blocks into a bucket and then understand that he can take them out again.
• Add tongue movement to change the sound of a word.

The skills described above generally appear during the indicated time frame. But don't worry -all babies are unique and develop at different rates. Talk to your doctor if you become concerned about your baby's health and development - at any time.