Your baby may master the pincer grasp this month and enjoy showing off her new finger dexterity at the dinner table. She may also explore the relationships between objects, understand more of the words you say or read to her, and enjoy playing hide-and-seek. Here’s a look at more of what might happen this month in terms of intellectuals

What to Expect: Your baby’s playful style may give you insight into her personality. Does she give her full attention to her work or is she easily distracted? Does she like repetition or the unexpected? Knowing what your baby likes and dislikes can help you arrange more interesting activities for your baby.

At 9 months old, your baby is now able to remember recent events and may show excitement if you repeat a fun song or game from the day before. Once you begin to regularly associate cue words with behaviors, your little one will respond to those cue words as well. The concept of constant presence of objects emerges this month as your baby begins to realize that an object does not disappear when it is out of sight.

Beyond that, “clapping, waving and pointing are just a few of the new tricks that little ones do at this age,” says Michele Borba, a parenting consultant and author of The Complete Parenting Solution: 101 Answers to Your Daily Challenges and Wildest Concerns. “It’s a sign of your baby’s growing relationship with the world around them and a cornerstone of language development.” . After all, waving goodbye, pointing at objects, and clapping excitedly are all ways your baby is showing you that she can communicate with you – and others.” She explains.

Progression: Your baby may be teething and chattering, occasionally breaking out into more coherent words or sounds. He may also begin to use more body language to express himself. —- If your little one pulls on your pants or reaches for his arm, he may want to be grabbed up. He may also begin to recognize the names of animals and objects and try to imitate you more often.

How to help: Try to stick to a routine so that your baby knows generally what to expect each day, but change activities during each playtime to keep him excited. Talk to your baby about what is going to happen or what is currently happening so you can begin to develop the habit of setting his expectations for the future (this can help him avoid tantrums along the way). Narration is key to helping your baby develop language skills. Be patient if he starts to show signs of jealousy, whether it’s because you’re paying attention to him or because another child is playing with a toy he likes.

Don’t be afraid if: Between eating solids, getting new teeth, and becoming more flexible, your baby may have a few off days here and there. That’s okay. Every baby is unique, and your baby has learned a lot about the world this month —- You’ll be a little exhausted too! If your baby isn’t waving or clapping yet, try practicing with her by demonstrating the movements. During your nine-month checkup, ask your care provider for other ways to help improve these communication skills.

When you should be worried: If your baby isn’t teething or showing interest in the world around her, see your pediatrician.