As a new mom, it can be overwhelming to keep track of your baby’s development. Each month brings new milestones and changes, and it’s important to know what to expect. In this article, we’ll take a look at the typical development milestones for babies during their first year of life.
Table of Contents
Month 1
During the first month of life, your baby will spend most of their time sleeping and eating. They may also start to recognize your voice and face, and may even smile in response.
Month 2
At two months old, your baby will become more alert and start to focus on objects and people around them. They may also start to track objects with their eyes and show more interest in toys and playtime.
Month 3
By three months old, your baby will be able to lift their head and chest during tummy time. They may also start to roll from their back to their side and show more control over their movements.
Month 4
At four months old, your baby will become more interactive and may start to babble and coo. They may also begin to grasp objects and bring them to their mouth.
Month 5
By five months old, your baby will be able to sit up with support and may even be able to roll from their tummy to their back. They may also start to recognize their own name and respond to simple commands.
Month 6
At six months old, your baby will start to develop stronger motor skills and may be able to sit up without support. They may also start to crawl or scoot around and may even start to pull themselves up to stand.
Month 7
By seven months old, your baby will likely be able to transfer objects from one hand to the other and be able to pick up small objects with their fingers. They may also start to understand simple cause-and-effect relationships.
Month 8
At eight months old, your baby may be able to stand independently and may even take their first steps. They may also start to mimic sounds and words and respond to their own name more consistently.
Month 9
By nine months old, your baby will be more mobile and may crawl or walk around with more confidence. They may also start to understand more complex instructions and gestures, such as waving goodbye.
Month 10
At ten months old, your baby may start to use more complex sounds and words and may even say their first word. They may also start to show more independence and may be able to feed themselves with their fingers or a spoon.
Month 11
By eleven months old, your baby may be able to walk independently and may even be able to climb stairs with supervision. They may also start to understand more abstract concepts, such as object permanence.
Month 12
At twelve months old, your baby will have reached their first birthday and will have accomplished many milestones along the way. They may be able to say several words and may even be able to use simple gestures to communicate their needs. They may also start to show more empathy and understanding of other people’s emotions.
Remember, every baby is different and will reach milestones at their own pace. If you have concerns about your baby’s development, be sure to talk to your pediatrician. Enjoy watching your little one grow and develop during their first year of life!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When should my baby start crawling?
A: Most babies start crawling between six and ten months old, but it can vary. Some babies skip crawling altogether and move straight to walking.
Q: When should my baby start talking?
A: Most babies say their first word between ten and fourteen months old, but it can vary. Some babies may not say their first word until they are closer to 18 months old.
Q: Should I be worried if my baby isn’t reaching milestones on time?
A: It’s important to remember that all babies develop at their own pace. However, if you have concerns about your baby’s development, be sure to talk to your pediatrician.
Q: What can I do to encourage my baby’s development?
A: Simple things like talking to your baby, reading to them, and providing them with age-appropriate toys can help encourage their development. You can also engage in playtime activities that help them practice their motor and cognitive skills.
Q: What are some red flags for developmental delays?
A: Red flags for developmental delays may include a lack of progress in motor or cognitive skills, a lack of response to noise or voices, or a lack of interest in playtime activities. Be sure to talk to your pediatrician if you have concerns.