In life, many parents expect their four-month-old children to often show smiles; however, they find that the child is not enthusiastic about this and only smiles occasionally. This situation inevitably worries parents, who are concerned about the child’s health or facial development. In fact, a baby not loving to smile may be a normal developmental process, as they gradually form their own thoughts. To promote the baby’s cheerful emotions, it is recommended to increase outdoor activities, enjoy sunshine, and ensure that the baby’s growth in all aspects meets normal standards. Timely increases in food intake, introducing teething sticks or chewy toys, and adequate supplementation of calcium and fish liver oil are also important. Parents’ close interactions, joyful expressions and language, as well as methods such as using toys, can effectively stimulate the baby’s happy emotions, which greatly benefits intellectual development.
To allow the baby to experience happiness earlier, it can start from infancy by helping the baby adapt to bathing in warm water. As the baby grows, gradually extend the bathing time and change the bathing methods; this not only helps with cleanliness but also brings a sense of pleasure. Changing the baby’s lying position in the cradle to offer them fresh perspectives, similar to a simple game, can satisfy their curiosity to explore the world.
From the moment the baby is born, establishing a close connection through eye contact is crucial, especially while feeding them from a proper distance, smiling, and focusing on the baby. This can deepen the emotional bond between mother and child. Using toys to attract the baby’s attention and guiding their gaze can create a sense of novelty, even though they cannot yet speak; these interactions are enough to fill them with curiosity.
At around two months, most babies will respond with smiles to close individuals; this is their way of expressing happiness. Parents should respond timely to these smiles, strengthening the parent-child relationship through positive feedback. Additionally, actively showing smiles to the baby encourages them to imitate, thereby cultivating the baby’s positive emotional expressions.
There is no need to overly worry if a four-month-old baby does not smile much; the key is to create a joyful growing environment, guide them appropriately, and accompany them with love and patience at every step of their growth. Remember that every child’s growth rhythm is different; respecting and following this natural process is more beneficial for the baby’s long-term development.
