9 months

Just because your child is not performing everything at the selected times does not mean there is something wrong. Some children take a little bit longer to be able to do things on their own. Your child requires stimulation and opportunity to learn and develop. For guidance on age appropriate activities please look at play and ideas.

Child developmental stages

9 months

• I can roll around the floor.
• I am starting to sit all by myself.
• I can move around the floor on my tummy.
• I can stand up when you holds my hands.
• When I babble I am talking to you.
• I like to look at your eyes when you talk to me
• I turn to you when you call my name.
• I like to play peek- a- boo and clap my hands.
• I can let you know if I am happy or sad.
• I can hold a closed cup and drink by myself.
• I like to hold and eat small pieces of food.

If you are concerned about how your child is doing any of the above activities please ask your health visitor for advice and guidance.

Areas for concern at 9 months

The guide below indicates when you should seek further advice if your child is not making progress towards their age specific targets. Please seek further advice from your health visitor or GP.

If your baby –

• Cannot sit without help.
• Does not try to talk to people.
• Does not show any interest in toys
• Does not use both hands to play with toys.
• Does not make noise to get your attention.

Play ideas

A better start in life: Play ideas 6 to 9 months
Produced by the Paediatric Occupational Therapy Deparment Royal Free London.