8 months old

At this stage, your baby may still be happily sitting and playing — but don’t be fooled, things can change overnight! Many babies start crawling or pulling themselves up around this time, so it’s a good idea to babyproof your home before they become mobile.

Having safety items like socket covers, stair gates, corner cushions, door stops, and cupboard locks ready in advance will help you feel more prepared when the moment comes. Even simple changes like moving breakables or sharp-edged furniture out of reach can make a big difference. It’s all about staying one step ahead of those curious little hands!

Your local baby clinic or GP surgery is a great place to keep track of your baby’s growth, ask questions and get support with feeding, development, sleep routines and more.

At this age, regular weigh-ins and height checks can reassure you that everything is on track - and if you do have any concerns, it’s much easier to talk things through with someone face-to-face. These visits also offer a nice chance to connect with other parents, especially if you’re feeling a bit isolated.

When you have a baby, it’s all too easy just to focus on their needs and forget that your own social wellbeing matters too. Whether it’s a quick catch-up with a friend, a solo coffee trip or a date night with your partner, carving out a bit of adult time can do wonders for your mental health.

Your baby is also starting to become more aware of the world, and of other people. Getting together with other parents and babies is a great way for your little one to start learning how to interact with others. Local baby groups, music sessions or even informal meetups at the park can help build those early social skills (for both of you!).

By now, your baby may be enjoying a wider variety of meals, and you’ll likely be eating on the go more often. While warm food is comforting, most babies really don’t mind eating at room temperature. In fact, getting them used to it can make feeding outside the house a lot easier.

Having a few easy, ready-to-eat meals in your bag (like jars or pre-prepped finger foods) means you’re always prepared, whether you’re at the park, in a café or visiting friends or family.

Most babies of this age will love the independence of feeding themselves. Soft finger foods like steamed veggies, ripe fruit slices, or baby-friendly toast sticks are great for helping develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

Just remember to never leave your baby alone during mealtimes to ensure they’re safe while exploring new textures and flavours. Even if your baby has already mastered a few solids, they’re still learning how to chew, swallow and handle different food shapes and sizes.