M.K.
I haven't read your other replies yet, but I bet you're getting a lot of "he's fine" and he's a premie, etc. I am a pediatric physical therapist working mostly in the area of developmental pediatrics (as opposed to rehab from injuries), so I hope to offer you a different perspective. If you (or others) have read any of my responses to similar questions, you will see I am very passionate about what I do, so bear with me =) If he was about 4 weeks early, then his adjusted age is now about 4 months (chronologically 5 months). At this age he should be able to keep his head in the middle when you pull him to sitting from laying on his back (pulling gently from his wrists); he should have a steady head in a supported sitting position now DESPITE being a premie; when on his tummy he should be able to lift his head to essentially vertical while bearing weight through his forearms (although he may get frustrated and just not like tummy time); in a standing position (with help of course) he should be able to bear weight through his legs, but briefly and then let them sag and then push back up; when on his back he should be playing in "midline"--bringing his hands together, starting to kick his feet at the same time as if trying to bring them to his hands, etc. Does he seem "stiff" or on the floppy side? Four months (again, his adjusted age) is a key age for some skills to emerge. If you are in doubt, consult with you pediatrician. There should be a birth to three program in your area (didn't check your profile before writing this) and usually a screening and evaluation are free. If there is a sign of a "delay" (please don't let that panic you!!!), early intervention is the key. Now, with that said, yes, every child develops at a different rate. It is when multiple skills are lagging that we are concerned. Head control at this time is KEY. If he doesn't like tummy time, keep pushing it--it is VERY important! If you have further questions, please feel free to send me another message. Again, I am in no way trying to panic you, just trying to give you some helpful information! Good Luck!