Becoming a parent, especially in the first year of your little one's life, is indeed full of surprises, isn't it, Moms? Every month there's a new milestone that warms your heart and amazes you at the same time. Now, at 8 months old, your little one is in an important phase of growth and development. You might be wondering, what is the development of an 8-month-old baby like? What can an 8-month-old baby do? What is the normal weight for an 8-month-old baby?
This article will help Moms understand various aspects of an 8-month-old baby's development, from motor skills and emotional growth to the stimulation that Moms can provide. Let's discuss it in more detail!
What Can an 8-Month-Old Baby Do?
1. Motor Development of an 8-Month-Old Baby
At this age, the little one usually starts to be very active. Some babies even try to crawl, although their methods can sometimes be unique, with some moving backward before going forward. Moms, don't be surprised if the little one often seems to be trying to get up from a prone position to sitting.
Coordination of hands and feet is also becoming more refined. For example, the little one can transfer toys from one hand to the other or reach for small objects around them. This is why stimulation for an 8-month-old baby is very important, Moms, such as providing colorful toys that are safe to grasp to train their fine motor skills.
2. Emotional and Social Development
Not only physically, but the emotional development of an 8-month-old baby also begins to show. The little one can already recognize the faces of Mom and close people. Sometimes, they also start to show fear or shyness towards strangers. Don't be surprised if the little one cries when left for a moment; this is a sign they are learning the concept of attachment.
In addition, an 8-month-old baby can start laughing freely, joking, and even protesting with cries if something doesn't go their way. So adorable, right Moms?
3. Speaking Ability of an 8-Month-Old Baby
At this stage, your little one begins to babble a lot with repeated syllables, such as "ba-ba" or "ma-ma." Although they may not consciously say "Mama" yet, this is an important part of an 8-month-old baby's speech development. Moms can support this by frequently talking to them, reading books, or singing.
4. Sleep Patterns of an 8-Month-Old Baby
The sleep pattern of an 8-month-old baby is usually around 12–15 hours per day, including nighttime sleep and naps. However, don't be surprised if their sleep is sometimes irregular. At this age, many babies experience sleep regression because their brains are busy processing new skills. Moms can help with a consistent sleep routine.
5. Development of an 8-Month-Old Baby's Teeth
Many babies start to grow their first teeth at this age, usually the lower incisors. The teething process can make the little one fussier, drool more often, or bite objects around them. To alleviate this, Moms can provide a safe cold teether.
Things to Consider for an 8-Month-Old Baby
1. Normal Weight for an 8-Month-Old Baby
The average normal weight for an 8-month-old baby girl is around 7–10 kg, and for a baby boy, it is 7.5–11 kg. However, each child is different, so don't compare too harshly, Moms. The important thing is that your little one's growth chart remains stable according to the KMS (Kartu Menuju Sehat) curve.
2. Complementary Foods for 8-Month-Old Babies
At this age, the little one is more accustomed to complementary foods for breast milk (MPASI). Moms can provide food with a mashed or finely chopped texture. Vary the menu with carbohydrates, animal protein, plant protein, vegetables, and fruits.
Food for an 8-month-old baby can include rice porridge with minced chicken, soft vegetable soup, or mashed avocado. Don't forget to watch for allergic reactions every time you introduce new foods, Moms.
3. Activities for 8-Month-Old Babies
Babies at this age love to explore. Moms can support this by providing a safe play area. Place educational toys such as soft blocks, cloth books, or musical toys. Activities for 8-month-old babies should involve a lot of movement to further develop their motor skills.
4. Stimulation for 8-Month-Old Babies
Stimulation is very important for the optimal growth and development of an 8-month-old baby. Here are some stimulation ideas that Moms can try:
- Playing peekaboo to train social response.
- Reading a short story with pictures.
- Teaching crawling by placing toys a little further away.
- Inviting the Little One to interact with songs or clapping hands.
Ways to train an 8-month-old baby to crawl can be done with longer tummy time or by creating a "mini track" with pillows as a small challenge. Exciting, right, Moms?
5. Signs of a Healthy 8-Month-Old Baby
Some signs of a healthy baby at this age include: weight according to the curve, active movement, responsiveness to sound, ability to smile and laugh, and a good appetite. If your little one appears lethargic, less responsive, or shows no new developments, do not hesitate to consult a doctor.
The development of an 8-month-old baby is indeed full of surprises, Moms. From the little one learning to crawl, teething, to starting to babble a lot. Your task is to support them through stimulation, a healthy diet, and full attention. Remember, each baby has a different timeline, so enjoy every process without comparing them to other babies.
And of course, the comfort of your little one is equally important. One way to ensure this is by choosing the right diaper. Moms can try MAKUKU Slim, a premium diaper with SAP Thin Core technology that maximizes liquid absorption, keeps the surface drier, and prevents clumping. With a thickness of only 1.6 mm, your little one can move freely without feeling bulky. Additionally, features like a urine indicator, 3D surface, and good air circulation help keep your little one's skin healthy and comfortable all day long.
With full attention, proper stimulation, nutritious intake, and maintained comfort, the growth and development of an 8-month-old baby will be more optimal. Enjoy every moment with your little one, because this time will not come again, Moms.
