As new parents, we all want to ensure our baby is growing and developing as they should be. However, it can be overwhelming to know what milestones to look for and when. That’s why we’ve compiled a guide to baby milestones development so you can feel more confident in tracking your little one’s progress.
Table of Contents
The First Month
During the first month of life, your baby will be getting used to the world outside the womb. They will spend most of their time sleeping and eating. Some milestones you can expect to see include:
- Head control: Your baby’s neck muscles will start to develop, but they won’t be able to hold their head up yet.
- Reflexes: Your baby will have a strong grasp reflex, and their startle reflex will be strong.
- Social interaction: Your baby will start to recognize your face and voice and may respond with coos and smiles.
The Second and Third Months
As your baby gets a little older, they will become more alert and active. Some milestones you can expect to see include:
- Smiling: Your baby will start to smile in response to you and other familiar faces.
- Rolling over: Your baby may start to roll from their tummy to their back.
- Eye contact: Your baby will start to make eye contact with you and follow objects with their eyes.
The Fourth and Fifth Months
At this point, your baby will start to become more mobile and may even start to sit up with support. Some milestones you can expect to see include:
- Sitting up: Your baby may be able to sit up with support or by themselves for short periods of time.
- Reaching and grabbing: Your baby will start to reach for and grab objects.
- Babbling: Your baby will start to make more complex sounds and may even start to imitate sounds they hear.
The Sixth Through Ninth Months
By now, your baby will be much more active and may start to crawl or even walk. Some milestones you can expect to see include:
- Crawling: Your baby may start to crawl or scoot around on their tummy.
- Standing: Your baby may start to pull themselves up to a standing position and may even take a few steps while holding onto furniture or your hands.
- First words: Your baby may say their first words around 9 months of age.
The Tenth Through Twelfth Months
As your baby approaches their first birthday, they will continue to become more mobile and independent. Some milestones you can expect to see include:
- Walking: Your baby may start to take their first independent steps around 12 months of age.
- Problem-solving: Your baby will start to figure out how to solve simple problems, like getting a toy out of a box.
- Mimicking: Your baby will start to mimic the actions and sounds of others.
Remember, every baby is different, and each will reach these milestones at their own pace. If you’re concerned about your baby’s development, don’t hesitate to talk to your pediatrician. They can provide guidance and reassurance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baby Milestones Development
When should my baby start to crawl?
Most babies start to crawl between 6 and 10 months of age, but some may start earlier or later.
When will my baby say their first words?
Most babies say their first words around 9 months of age, but some may start earlier or later.
What if my baby isn’t reaching milestones as quickly as other babies?
Every baby develops at their own pace, but if you’re concerned about your baby’s development, talk to your pediatrician. They can assess your baby’s development and provide guidance.
Should I be worried if my baby skips a milestone?
It’s not uncommon for babies to skip a milestone or take a little longer to reach it. However, if you’re concerned, talk to your pediatrician.
What can I do to encourage my baby’s development?
You can encourage your baby’s development by providing plenty of opportunities for play and exploration. Talk, sing, and read to your baby, and give them lots of love and attention.
Now that you know what to expect from baby milestones development, you can better track your little one’s progress and enjoy watching them grow and develop.