Your baby is probably jabbering for a reason, even if you don’t know what that is. One way to help her develop language skills is to imitate her jabbering and cooing, as if the two of you are having an intelligent conversation that only you can understand.

Other ways to help your baby develop language skills and understanding include:

• Talking to your baby often as you dress, feed, or bathe her

• Providing quiet time (turning off the radio and TV)

• Encouraging your baby to turn her head toward sounds

• Repeating sounds often and trying to get your baby to mimic them back to you

Well-baby visits to the pediatrician are probably part of your monthly routine by now. These visits are important for you and your baby because:

• They’re your opportunity to make sure your baby is growing and developing properly, and to ask any questions you may have.

• They’re the time when your baby will get the immunizations she needs (and make up any that she may have missed).

It’s true that in the United States great strides have been made in reducing childhood diseases through regular vaccinations. But the organisms that cause some of these diseases haven’t disappeared. Regular vaccinations are still the only way to protect your baby — now and for years to come — so be sure to get your child immunized to help keep her healthy.

You've probably been told many times that babies should sleep on their backs. But now that your baby is rolling over on her own, you can’t control her sleeping position. Here are some suggestions:

• It's probably OK to let her sleep in whatever position she finds most comfortable. Once a baby can roll over on her own, generally between 4 and 7 months of age, the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) is usually reduced.

• it’s still a good idea to keep thick blankets, comforters, pillows, and large, soft, stuffed toys out of your baby's crib.