Creeping, crawling, and cruising are the hallmarks of this month, as your baby experiments with all-new ways of exploring her world. How can you help? When your baby's standing, hold her favorite toy just out of reach. Try to get her to "cruise" along the furniture to get the toy.

Your baby’s development

Bedtime Rituals: Good night lullaby

Near the end of this first year, it's a great time to create more involved bedtime rituals, such as reading the same book to her that your mother read you, rocking, or doing quiet activities together.

While it may only take 10 to 30 minutes, your bedtime ritual will help your baby look forward to bedtime, and find it easier to accept the separation from you when you finally leave the room. So that she'll be comfortable with anyone putting her to bed, it's good to involve loved ones early.

Developing a strong mind and body for your 8 month old baby

Simple and effective, these techniques can help you keep baby entertained and help her develop mentally and physically:

• Encourage her to bounce up and down while supporting her in a standing position.
• Help your baby stand when she's near a stable, sturdy object, urging her to use it for balance. (Once she's able to pull up to stand in her crib, make sure the mattress is in the lowest setting for safety.)
• Place a toy out of reach and encourage her to get the toy by crawling on her hands and knees.