When will my baby start teething?

Babies often start teething between 4 and 7 months of age. This happy milestone can bring a little discomfort, so you may notice your baby becoming irritable, rubbing their ears and biting or chewing on toys. Durable, non-toxic baby board books or washable soft-cloth books can allow your baby to explore safely and suck or chew on corners to help relieve sore gums. These can offer your baby their first experience of books, encouraging a love of reading from the very beginning. 

As you navigate this milestone together, here are some everyday ways to talk, read, sing and play with your baby. 

Talk: your baby might show they’re uncomfortable or tired by squirming, turning their head away or crying. You can respond by naming their emotions: ‘I can see you are tired’. This will help your baby learn to attach meaning to words. Responding to these cues helps them feel safe and loved. 
 
Read: board books are perfect for placing on the floor during tummy time. These sturdy books can encourage your baby to lift their head to see the colours and pictures. This helps strengthen their upper body in preparation for crawling. 
 
Sing: soothe your baby with the sound of your voice. Gentle lullabies can be sung at any time of day. Don’t know the words? Make up your own to familiar tunes like Twinkle, Twinkle or Rock-a-bye Baby, or pop on some soft classical music for a calming bedtime routine. There are many benefits to incorporating music and singing in your everyday activities to help your baby learn. 

Play: bath time can also be a learning time with teething-friendly, splash-proof bath books. Connect with your baby through bright, high-contrast colours, shapes and animals to support early language development. 

For more tips to match your baby’s age and stage, sign up to our free eNews and go into the draw to win all 12 stories for little Queenslanders  
 
At First 5 Forever, we’re all about connection. Here are some helpful links to connect you to expert voice and resources to support your family through the early years: 

Raising Children Network  

Play Matters 

Triple P – Positive Parenting Program 

Family and Child Connect 

Pregnancy Birth and Baby