👶 Older baby
Your 7-month-old baby
On the move and full of opinions
By Emma Whitfield · Pregnancy & Baby Writer
Development at 7 months
Seven-month-olds often sit steadily without support, and some begin to shuffle, rock on hands and knees or commando-crawl. They transfer toys hand to hand, look for dropped objects, and show clear likes and dislikes.
Feeding
Meals can build towards three a day with more variety and texture — mashed and soft lumps help develop chewing. Keep offering a wide range of tastes even if some are refused; it can take many tries.
Sleep
Two or three naps a day is typical. Separation awareness is growing, which can make settling harder — a consistent, calm bedtime routine really helps now.
Play & connection
Stacking, posting and container-play toys suit this stage. Peekaboo teaches object permanence. Get down on the floor and encourage crawling by placing favourite toys just out of reach.
Focus this month
Do a room-by-room baby-proofing sweep before your baby is fully mobile — socket covers, cupboard latches, stair gates and securing furniture to the wall.
When to check in
Have a word with your health visitor if your baby is not sitting with support, not bearing weight on their legs, or not reaching for and holding toys.
Your 7-month-old baby: common questions
What should a 7-month-old baby be doing?
Seven-month-olds often sit steadily without support, and some begin to shuffle, rock on hands and knees or commando-crawl. They transfer toys hand to hand, look for dropped objects, and show clear likes and dislikes. Remember this is a typical range — healthy babies reach milestones at very different times.
How much should a 7-month-old baby sleep?
Two or three naps a day is typical. Separation awareness is growing, which can make settling harder — a consistent, calm bedtime routine really helps now.
What should I feed a 7-month-old baby?
Meals can build towards three a day with more variety and texture — mashed and soft lumps help develop chewing. Keep offering a wide range of tastes even if some are refused; it can take many tries.
Sources & further reading
- Baby — development and milestones — NHS Start for Life
- Safer sleep advice — The Lullaby Trust
This is general information, not medical advice — every baby develops differently and the ranges here are typical, not targets. Your health visitor and the NHS red book are your personal sources of truth. If you're ever worried about your baby's development, health or feeding, speak to your health visitor or GP. Reviewed July 2026.