Month 8 of 12
Your baby at 8 months old
Separation anxiety arrives. Here's a calm snapshot of what may be changing now — and what might help at 3am.
At a glance
The useful numbers, made easier.
Typical ranges, not rules. Cues beat clocks and every baby differs. Steady weight gain and regular wet nappies matter more than one feed; if you're unsure, ask your pediatrician.
Progress, not pressure
Milestones around 8 months old
These come from the CDC's checklists — what most babies (75%+) do by the 6-month check. Missing one or any concern is a reason to talk with your pediatrician, never a score.
- Knows familiar peopleLights up for the people they see most.
- Likes to look at themselves in a mirrorThey don't know it's them yet — but they love that baby.
- LaughsReal, full laughs now.
- Takes turns making sounds with youSound back and forth — the rhythm of conversation.
- Blows raspberriesSticking out the tongue and blowing — great mouth-muscle practice.
- Makes squealing noisesExperimenting with pitch and volume.
- Puts things in their mouth to exploreThe mouth is their best sensory tool right now.
- Reaches to grab a toy they wantSees it, wants it, goes for it.
Play for right now
Play that fits 8 months old
Short, age-matched ideas using ordinary things — no elaborate setup required.
Classic Peekaboo
Sit facing your baby so they can see your face clearly.
Blanket Peekaboo
Drape a light muslin briefly over your own head.
Hide the Toy Under a Cup
Show your baby a favourite toy, then slowly cover it with an upturned cup while they watch.
Scarf Pull Surprise
Knot a few scarves together and stuff them into an empty wipes box or tube.
This month's practical tip
Crawling looks different for every baby — classic hands-and-knees, army crawl, bottom scoot, or skipping it entirely. What matters is that they're finding some way to move toward what they want.
When to call your doctor
- Under 3 months with a rectal temperature of 38°C / 100.4°F or higher: call your doctor immediately, even if baby seems fine
- Fewer than 6 heavy wet nappies a day after the first week
- Floppy, very hard to wake, or a weak, high-pitched cry
- Losing skills they already had
- Your gut says something is wrong — that is a good enough reason
The exact week, in your pocket
Bloomie changes
with them.
Age-matched play ideas, CDC milestone checklists, sleep guidance and quick tracking — together in one calm place.
Get Bloomie