At five months old, babies usually range from 23.5 inches long and 12.25 pounds (10th percentile) to 26.5 inches long and 17 pounds (90th percentile).

Many babies at this age begin to show an interest in solid foods. Arta may watch you intently while you eat and try to reach for some of what you have. This is one indication that he may be ready to try some solid foods. Other signs include sitting well while supported, holding his head steady, and losing the "extrusion reflex," which causes him to push food out of his mouth.

Arta is probably conducting some new experiments such as dropping his toys on the ground to find out what sounds they make when they land. To help sharpen his auditory skills and encourage his interest in the world around him, try pointing out a plane flying overhead, or an ambulance speeding down the street.

If you place a small object on the floor, Arta might be able to rake it towards him with his hands. Just make sure you stick close to Arta to make sure that the item doesn't end up in his mouth or that the object doesn't pose a choking hazard.

Is Arta still not sleeping through the night? Believe it or not this is normal. Even as adults we awaken several times a night, but we learned at some point to put ourselves back to sleep. Until your baby learns how to put himself back to sleep, you will, unfortunately, be awakened to lend a hand.

Babies around this age also love faces - even their own. Try placing an unbreakable baby mirror in the crib; or if you don't have a baby mirror, trying putting Arta on the floor in front of a mirror. For a few minutes at a time Arta may be his own entertainment. He has no idea that he is looking at his own reflection - that revelation will come much later. For now it's just a new adorable baby face that's fun to look at.