Source: bing.comAs a new parent, it can be hard to know what to expect from your baby’s development. Every child is different and will develop at their own pace, but there are some general milestones to look out for as your baby grows. In this guide, we will take you through baby development milestones by month, so you can have a better understanding of what your baby is capable of and what to expect in the coming months.
Table of Contents
Birth to 1 Month
In the first month of life, your baby will be adjusting to the outside world and getting used to their new surroundings. They will mostly eat and sleep, but there are a few milestones to watch for. Your baby may:
- Respond to sound
- Mimic facial expressions
- Grasp your finger
2 to 3 Months
By 2 to 3 months, your baby will become more alert and responsive. They will start to show interest in their surroundings and become more active. Some milestones to look out for include:
- Smiling at familiar faces
- Following objects with their eyes
- Lifting their head while on their stomach
4 to 5 Months
During the 4 to 5 month period, your baby will start to become more mobile and interactive. They will be able to communicate more effectively and become more curious about the world around them. Some milestones to keep an eye out for include:
- Rolling from front to back
- Sitting up with support
- Babbling
6 to 7 Months
At 6 to 7 months, your baby will start to become more independent and explore their surroundings. They will also start to develop their fine motor skills and communication abilities. Some milestones to watch for include:
- Crawling
- Picking up objects with fingers
- Saying “mama” or “dada”
8 to 9 Months
During 8 to 9 months, your baby will become more vocal and active. They will start to show preferences for certain toys and become more aware of their surroundings. Some milestones to be aware of include:
- Standing with support
- Cruising (walking while holding onto furniture)
- Responding to their name
10 to 11 Months
By 10 to 11 months, your baby will be on the move and exploring everything they can get their hands on. They will also start to develop their problem-solving skills and become more social. Some milestones to look out for include:
- Walking with support
- Waving goodbye
- Playing with others
12 to 14 Months
During the final months of their first year, your baby will become more independent and start to assert their own personality. They will also become more communicative and continue to develop their motor skills. Some milestones to watch for include:
- Walking independently
- Saying several words
- Mimicking actions and sounds
Remember, every baby is different, and some may reach certain milestones earlier or later than others. If you have concerns about your baby’s development, talk to your pediatrician. They can help you understand what to expect and provide advice on how to support your baby’s growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my baby misses a milestone?
Don’t panic if your baby doesn’t reach a milestone at the expected time. Every baby develops at their own pace, and some may take longer to reach certain milestones. However, if you have concerns about your baby’s development, talk to your pediatrician to rule out any underlying issues.
What can I do to help my baby reach their milestones?
There are many things you can do to support your baby’s development, such as providing plenty of tummy time, reading to them, and playing with them. It’s also important to make sure they are getting enough sleep, proper nutrition, and regular checkups with their pediatrician.
What should I do if I’m worried about my baby’s development?
If you have concerns about your baby’s development, talk to your pediatrician. They can help you understand what to expect and provide advice on how to support your baby’s growth. It’s also a good idea to track your baby’s milestones and discuss any concerns with your pediatrician at their regular checkups.
Is it possible for my baby to skip a milestone?
Yes, it’s possible for your baby to skip a milestone or reach a milestone out of order. Every baby develops at their own pace, and some may skip certain milestones altogether. However, if you have concerns about your baby’s development, talk to your pediatrician to rule out any underlying issues.
What if my baby is behind in their milestones?
If your baby is behind in their milestones, it’s important to talk to your pediatrician. They can help you understand what to expect and provide advice on how to support your baby’s growth. Your pediatrician may also recommend early intervention services if they feel it’s necessary.