The 9-month-old babies practice their mental skills and acquire new social skills. Speedy crawling gets them to their destinations. Memory and mental capacities improve. At this age, babies begin developing at their own pace. Very active or very quiet babies may show different development and learning tasks from other babies. Do not worry, this is fine. New fears and insecurities emerge. Jealousy by an older sibling may create rivalry, harassment, and steal attention away from the baby. This can slow the development of standing or walking in many second and third children. The baby adapts by learning to protect himself and his possessions. New growth and developmental milestones occur by the end of 9 months.

The 9-month-old's motor skills include:
* Trying to crawl upstairs.
* Starting to pull up and cruise holding on with both hands to furniture.
* Sitting steadily and indefinitely alone.
* Sitting down after standing.
* Index finger begins to lead by pointing, poking, and hooking.

The 9-month-old's language skills include:
* Vocalizing emotions through voice signals.
* Imitating coughing, hissing, and tongue clicking.
* Listening to conversations and singing tones.
* Following simple commands.

The 9-month-old's mental abilities include:
* Fearing heights.
* Uncovering toys that are seen hidden.
* Retaining a series of ideas in mind.

The 9-month-old's social traits include:
* Performing for family and repeating the act if applauded.
* Crying when another child cries, shows sensitivity to others.
* Playing out new fears. Stranger and separation anxiety is often very strong.
* Showing interest in the play of others. May play patty-cake.
* Feeding self a cracker.
* May choose a special toy or blanket to sleep with or hold when anxious or tired.

Turn your baby's fears into positive experiences. Boost morale with hugs or a sympathetic pat on the back. Laughing at minor accidents encourages your baby's sense of humor. Be loving.

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