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Developmental milestones record - 9 months

Definition

At 9 months, a typical infant will demonstrate certain skills and growth markers known as milestones.

Alternative Names

Growth milestones for children - 9 months; Childhood growth milestones - 9 months; Normal childhood growth milestones - 9 months

Information

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND MOTOR SKILLS

A 9 month old generally has reached the following milestones:

  • Gains weight at a slower rate -- approximately 15 grams per day, 1 pound per month
  • Increases in length by 1.5 centimeters per month
  • Becomes more regulated in bowel and bladder systems
  • Shows parachute reflex to protect self from falling
  • Is able to crawl
  • Remains sitting for prolonged periods
  • Pulls self to standing position
  • Has a pincer grasp between thumb and index finger
  • Feeds self
  • Throws or shakes objects

SENSORY AND COGNITIVE SKILLS

The 9 month old typically:

  • Is developing depth perception
  • Achieves "object constancy", the understanding that objects continue to exist even when not seen
  • Responds to simple commands
  • Responds to name
  • Understands the meaning of "no"
  • Imitates speech sounds
  • May be afraid of being left alone
  • Plays interactive games

PLAY

To aid the development of the 9 month old:

  • Provide picture books
  • Provide different stimuli:
    • Go to the mall (people)
    • Go to the zoo (animals)
  • Play ball
  • Build vocabulary by reading and naming people and objects in the environment
  • Teach hot and cold through play
  • Provide large toys that can be pushed to encourage walking
Review Date: 12/4/2006
Reviewed By: Rachel A. Lewis, MD, FAAP, Columbia University Pediatric Faculty Practice, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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