What are the key developmental milestones for babies in their first year. How do babies progress in physical, cognitive, and social skills from birth to 12 months. When should parents expect their child to reach important developmental stages.

Understanding Baby Developmental Milestones

Developmental milestones are key skills and abilities that children typically acquire as they grow. These milestones serve as important indicators of a child’s progress in various domains, including physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development. While every child develops at their own pace, understanding these milestones can help parents and caregivers track their baby’s growth and identify potential concerns early on.

What are the main categories of developmental milestones? Developmental milestones are generally grouped into four main categories:

• Physical development: Gross and fine motor skills
• Cognitive development: Learning, thinking, and problem-solving abilities
• Language development: Communication and speech skills
• Social and emotional development: Interpersonal skills and emotional regulation

The First Three Months: Rapid Growth and Early Milestones

The first three months of a baby’s life are characterized by rapid growth and significant changes. During this period, parents can expect to observe several key developmental milestones.

Physical Development (1-3 Months)

What physical milestones should parents look for in the first three months? Here are some key physical developments to expect:

• Improved head control: By 3 months, many babies can lift their head and chest when lying on their stomach
• Hand-eye coordination: Babies begin to bring their hands to their mouth and may start reaching for objects
• Stretching and kicking: Increased leg movement and strength

Cognitive and Sensory Development (1-3 Months)

How does a baby’s cognitive abilities develop in the first three months? Cognitive milestones during this period include:

• Visual focus: Ability to focus on objects 8-12 inches away
• Face recognition: Increased interest in human faces
• Auditory response: Turning towards familiar sounds and voices

Social and Emotional Development (1-3 Months)

What social and emotional milestones can parents expect in the first three months? Key developments include:

• Social smiling: Responding to smiles and conversations with their own smiles
• Self-soothing: Some babies may begin to find ways to calm themselves, such as sucking on their hand
• Emotional expression: Showing pleasure and discomfort through facial expressions and vocalizations

Milestones from 4 to 6 Months: Expanding Skills and Abilities

As babies enter their second trimester of life, they continue to develop rapidly, building upon the skills acquired in the first three months.

Physical Development (4-6 Months)

What physical milestones typically occur between 4 and 6 months? Key developments during this period often include:

• Rolling over: Many babies learn to roll from back to front and vice versa
• Sitting: Progressing from sitting with support to sitting unassisted
• Improved hand control: Grasping objects and transferring them between hands

Cognitive Development (4-6 Months)

How does a baby’s cognitive abilities advance between 4 and 6 months? Notable cognitive milestones include:

• Object permanence: Beginning to understand that objects still exist when out of sight
• Cause and effect: Learning that their actions can produce results
• Increased attention span: Ability to focus on objects and activities for longer periods

Language Development (4-6 Months)

What language milestones can parents expect between 4 and 6 months? Key developments often include:

• Babbling: Producing a variety of sounds, including consonant-vowel combinations
• Responding to sounds: Turning head towards source of sounds
• Emotional vocalizations: Using different tones to express emotions

Milestones from 7 to 9 Months: Increasing Independence

The period between 7 and 9 months is marked by significant advancements in mobility and communication, as babies become more independent and interactive.

Physical Development (7-9 Months)

What physical milestones typically occur between 7 and 9 months? Key developments during this period often include:

• Crawling: Many babies begin to crawl, though styles may vary (e.g., classic crawling, army crawling, scooting)
• Pulling to stand: Using furniture or other objects to pull themselves up to a standing position
• Improved fine motor skills: Developing the pincer grasp to pick up small objects

Cognitive Development (7-9 Months)

How does a baby’s cognitive abilities progress between 7 and 9 months? Notable cognitive milestones include:

• Problem-solving: Figuring out simple puzzles or how to reach desired objects
• Memory development: Recognizing familiar people and objects
• Imitation: Copying simple actions and gestures

Language and Social Development (7-9 Months)

What language and social milestones can parents expect between 7 and 9 months? Key developments often include:

• First words: Some babies may say “mama” or “dada” with meaning
• Responding to own name: Turning or looking when called
• Stranger anxiety: Showing preference for familiar people and potential wariness of strangers

Milestones from 10 to 12 Months: Preparing for Toddlerhood

The final quarter of a baby’s first year is characterized by significant advancements in mobility, communication, and social interaction, as they prepare to transition into toddlerhood.

Physical Development (10-12 Months)

What physical milestones typically occur between 10 and 12 months? Key developments during this period often include:

• Walking: Many babies take their first steps, though some may not walk until 14-18 months
• Improved balance: Standing without support for longer periods
• Enhanced coordination: Ability to manipulate objects with increased precision

Cognitive Development (10-12 Months)

How does a baby’s cognitive abilities advance between 10 and 12 months? Notable cognitive milestones include:

• Understanding simple instructions: Following basic commands like “come here” or “give me”
• Categorization: Beginning to group similar objects together
• Cause and effect understanding: Increased awareness of how their actions influence their environment

Language and Social Development (10-12 Months)

What language and social milestones can parents expect between 10 and 12 months? Key developments often include:

• Expanded vocabulary: Using one or more words with meaning
• Gesture communication: Using gestures like pointing or waving to communicate
• Social games: Enjoying interactive games like peek-a-boo

Understanding Variations in Developmental Timelines

While developmental milestones provide a general guideline for a baby’s growth, it’s crucial to understand that every child develops at their own pace. What factors can influence a baby’s developmental timeline?

• Genetics: Family history can play a role in when certain milestones are reached
• Environment: Exposure to stimulating environments can impact development
• Premature birth: Babies born prematurely may reach milestones later than full-term babies
• Individual temperament: Some babies may be more motivated to achieve certain milestones than others

When should parents be concerned about delayed milestones? While variations are normal, significant delays in multiple areas of development may warrant professional evaluation. It’s always best to discuss concerns with a pediatrician, who can provide personalized guidance based on the child’s individual circumstances.

Promoting Healthy Development: Tips for Parents

Parents play a crucial role in supporting their baby’s development. What can parents do to promote healthy development across all domains?

Physical Development Support

• Provide plenty of tummy time to strengthen neck, back, and arm muscles
• Offer safe opportunities for exploration and movement
• Engage in activities that promote fine motor skills, such as grasping toys

Cognitive Development Support

• Read to your baby regularly to promote language and cognitive skills
• Provide age-appropriate toys that encourage problem-solving
• Engage in sensory play to stimulate learning and exploration

Language Development Support

• Talk to your baby frequently, describing actions and objects in their environment
• Respond to your baby’s vocalizations to encourage communication
• Use gestures along with words to reinforce meaning

Social and Emotional Development Support

• Provide plenty of loving attention and physical affection
• Respond consistently to your baby’s needs to build trust and security
• Encourage social interaction with family members and other children

The Importance of Regular Health Check-ups

Regular health check-ups play a vital role in monitoring a baby’s development and ensuring they’re on track. Why are these check-ups crucial for developmental monitoring?

• Professional assessment: Pediatricians can provide expert evaluation of your baby’s progress
• Early intervention: Regular check-ups can help identify potential developmental concerns early
• Personalized guidance: Healthcare providers can offer tailored advice based on your baby’s individual needs
• Vaccination schedule: Check-ups ensure your baby receives necessary vaccinations at appropriate times

How often should babies have health check-ups in their first year? The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the following schedule:

1. 3-5 days after birth
2. 1 month
3. 2 months
4. 4 months
5. 6 months
6. 9 months
7. 12 months

These regular check-ups provide opportunities for parents to discuss any concerns and receive guidance on supporting their baby’s development.

Celebrating Your Baby’s Unique Journey

As parents navigate their baby’s first year, it’s important to remember that each child’s developmental journey is unique. While milestones provide helpful guidelines, they should not be viewed as strict deadlines. How can parents maintain a healthy perspective on their baby’s development?

• Focus on progress: Celebrate small achievements and improvements rather than comparing to others
• Trust your instincts: If you have concerns, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice
• Embrace individuality: Recognize and appreciate your baby’s unique personality and strengths
• Enjoy the journey: Savor the special moments and milestones as they come, knowing that each stage is fleeting

By understanding developmental milestones while also embracing their baby’s individual path, parents can provide the support and encouragement needed for healthy growth and development throughout the first year and beyond.

Your Baby’s Development Milestones at a Glance

It’s so exciting to watch your baby’s development, but it’s easy to worry if they’re not rolling, sitting or crawling at the ‘right’ time.

Here’s roughly what developments to expect and when.

At a glance

• Most babies start crawling between six and nine months




• The average age to start walking is 12-13 months




• Some babies are saying ‘mama’ and/or ‘dada’ around nine months, and the average age for a first word is 10-11 months

If there’s one thing we know about babies it’s that they’re all different and do things at their own pace. Particularly with baby milestones, it’s easy to get concerned your baby hasn’t reached a stage when another child has at the same age. Development anxiety is common for parents, but try to remember your little one is an individual and will get there in their own time.  

Below is our rough guide to what you can start to look out for and when.

Rolling over

Some babies can do this at three months, but most are nearer to five or six months. Some haven’t mastered it by seven or eight months. All are completely normal.

Sitting

Most babies can sit without cushion props somewhere between five and seven months. By nine months almost all can do this pretty well.

Crawling

The word crawling covers a multitude – bottom shuffling, commando crawling (on the tummy) and crawling backwards. Most babies start it between six and nine months, but others are closer to 12 months. Some don’t crawl at all and go straight from sitting to cruising then walking.

Walking

There’s an absolutely huge variation in the age babies/toddlers walk –and how early they start is not necessarily a sign that they will be more physically capable in later life. The average age to start walking is 12-13 months, but there are plenty who don’t take their first steps until 16-18 months. If they aren’t walking by 18 months it is officially classed as ‘delayed’, but it’s still nothing to worry about if your health visitor is happy with their development.

Teeth

Very occasionally, babies are born with teeth, but most babies get their first tooth, usually one of the bottom front ones, between four and eight months – the average is six months, but it’s quite possible to reach their first birthday and still have no teeth. By aged two and a half to three they will all have their 20 milk teeth.

Talking

Some babies are saying ‘mama’ and/or ‘dada’ around nine months, and the average age for a first word is 10-11 months. However, lots of babies/toddlers don’t take much of an interest in talking until after their first birthday, some nearer to 18 months. As long as you’re talking to them lots and they seem to understand you, don’t worry – talking will come.

Remember!

All babies are unique and develop at different paces – don’t forget, they haven’t read the baby books! But if you’ve got concerns – especially about their sight or hearing – do talk to your health visitor or GP.

Read more about Baby Development Anxiety .

You can also see more about your baby’s development with our milestones chart. 

What Developmental Milestones Will My Baby Reach in the First Year of Life?

Written by Rachel Reiff Ellis

In this Article

• 1 to 3 Months
• 4 to 6 Months
• 7 to 9 Months
• 10-12 Months

Your baby will grow and change rapidly during their first year. Every child is different, and your little one will reach development milestones at their own pace. There are some typical age ranges, though, when some of the most exciting advances happen. Watch — and enjoy — as your baby moves into each new phase.

Around 1 month after your baby is born, they’ll still have jerky arm and leg movements and not much neck control. They’ll probably keep their hands in a fist shape, and their eyes may cross from time to time.

But there are also some new skills that are starting to show up. They can probably:

• Bring their hands near their face
• Pay attention to people’s faces over other objects
• Focus their eyes on things 8-12 inches away
• Turn their head from side to side while lying on their back
• Turn toward sounds and voices they recognize
• Smiles when you talk to or smile at them
• Reacts to loud noises 

By the time your baby is 3 months old, you’ll notice some other things going on. They may:

• Try to grab for and hold on to objects
• Put their hand in their mouth
• Stretch and kick while lying on their back
• Push down against a surface when their feet are placed on it
• Calm themselves occasionally by finding a hand or finger to suck on
• Coo or gurgle using mostly vowel sounds
• Focus on objects farther away than 12 inches
• Raise their head off the floor or push up their torso while lying on their stomach

As your baby closes in on the halfway point of their first year, they are no longer a newborn. Their movements will have more purpose, and their vision and speech skills will grow. They’ll probably be able to:

• Smile at people
• Copy sounds they hear
• Use different cries to express different feelings (hunger, pain)
• Follow an object with their eyes
• Copy expressions on others’ faces
• Reach for toys with one hand
• Roll from tummy to back and maintain control of head
• Makes sounds back when you talk to them
• Pushes up on their elbows or forearms when on their tummy

At the halfway point of their first year, they should be able to:

• Realize when someone is unfamiliar
• Look at themselves with interest in the mirror
• Play with other people, especially their mom and dad
• Start stringing more than one sound together when they babble
• Respond to their name
• Bring objects to their mouth
• Reach for toys and grab them
• Pass a toy from one hand to another
• Laughs
• Closes lips when they don’t weant food

By 6 months, some babies can also:

• Roll over in both directions
• Start sitting without support
• Hold their weight on their legs when they stand
• Rock back and forth on hands and knees

Your baby gets steadier as they grow. From 7 to 9 months, some master sitting up on their own and using their hands to pick up and move things. Others even walk by 9 months. Babies usually have full color vision by 7 months.

Typically, at the end of 9 months, your baby may be able to:

• Cling to you when someone unfamiliar is around
• Prefer certain toys over others
• Understand the word “no”
• Recognizes their name
• Play games like peekaboo
• Reach for a toy that’s far away
• Put things in their mouth
• Shows several facial expressions to show emotion
• Makes a lot of different sounds such as “mamamama” of “babababa”
• Sit on their own
• Pull up to standing
• Stand while holding on to something
• Crawl
• Lifts arms to be picked up
• Looks for objects that they dropped like a toy or spoon.
• Bangs things together

As your baby approaches 1 year, they can explore more of the world than ever before. They have learned new ways to communicate with you and others, and is getting more mobile every day. They can likely:

• Bring you a toy to play with or a book to read
• Recognize when you’re leaving and get upset about it
• Get your attention with noises or movement
• “Help” dress themselves by putting arms and legs through clothes
• Use gestures to say things (“no” and “goodbye”)
• Say a few simple words like “Mama” or “uh-oh”
• Mimic words you say
• Find an object behind your back
• Clap their hands together and wave
• Point
• Follow simple directions
• Drink from a cup
• Use their thumb and forefinger to pick up small objects, including food that they put in their mouth

There’s a wide range of skills when it comes to sitting, crawling, and standing at this age. It’s normal for a 1-year-old not to walk, but some do. On average, most 1-year-olds can:

• Get into a sitting position alone
• Pull up to standing
• “Cruise” (move while holding on to furniture or other support)
• Stand alone
• Take a few steps

When it comes to reaching milestones, remember: Your baby is in charge. They’ll cross the goal line when they are good and ready. If you have concerns about how your child is developing, check with your pediatrician. Some of the changes you may see as each month goes by:

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Children’s age – Workingmama

Children’s age
October 2, 2012

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The psychological development of a child is an individual process, but there are also standards for the development of preschool children (from birth to 6 years). Vorikngmama was told about them by Irina Petrova, a psychologist at the Center for Systemic Family Therapy in Moscow.

Child under one year old (Infancy)
The first year of life is the period of the most intense and rapid changes in the child’s psyche. At the end of 1 month, the child begins to smile at an adult, from 4 months old he looks at low-hanging toys, and from 5 months old, any new object is able to attract the attention of the baby. At the age of 6 to 12 months, the child begins to crawl, can manipulate objects, and by the end of 1 year he tries to put a cube on a cube, string rings on the pyramid rod. By the end of the first year, the beginning of walking is observed, the child already reacts to his name, knows his own and distinguishes them from strangers. By the way, the baby during this period may experience distrust and fear towards strangers. Also, by the end of the year, a normally developing child develops curiosity and initial ideas about the world around him. The child begins to recognize himself in the mirror, which indicates the presence of an image of himself.

But by the end of the year, the baby, unexpectedly for the parents, turns from a calm and submissive creature into a capricious, uncontrollable despot. This is the crisis of the first year of life. The child is characterized by stubbornness, disobedience, demand for increased attention, attempts at independent actions during feeding, dressing, refusal to perform the usual procedures. During this period, the baby may be offended by adults.

Child 1-3 years old (Early age)
A child from 1 to 2 years old masters a straight gait, runs by 2 years old, squats and stands independently, and at 2 years old 6 months. already knows how to ride a tricycle. In addition, by the end of 2 years, the child can already eat and drink on his own. Another of the acquired skills of this period: draws scribbles, tears paper, turns pages, builds simple structures from cubes, plays with a ball, sand, water; likes to roll, drag toys.

A child aged 2 to 3 learns to ask for a potty by himself in the daytime, washes and dries his hands, zips and unzips, makes cakes, eats with a spoon and fork, puts on simple items of clothing. At the same time, hand preference is formed and elements of the game appear (feeds, cradles the doll; carries, loads the car)

Usually from 1 year to 2 years the child speaks about 5 words (1 year), about 10 words (1 year 6 months), and by the end of 2 years can make a sentence of 2 words and name objects that are out of sight when hears their sound. At this time, the child has empathy, consolation, he already uses “no”, “yes”.

From 2 to 3 years old, the baby understands meaningful speech, simple stories, can monosyllabically answer a question about a fairy tale read and makes sentences of 3-4 words (2 years old), asks questions with the words “who?”, “Where?”, “ where?”, easily repeats phrases.
By the end of 2 years, can distinguish between the concepts of “one” and “many”, “big” and “small”. At the same time, the child can recognize familiar objects on TV and is able to complete instructions from 2-3 actions (come …, take …, bring …). And the most interesting begins by the end of the 3rd year, when children can already compose their first fairy tales and stories.

By the age of three, a child’s desire for self-reliance and independence from an adult sharply increases, which finds its expression in the crisis of 3 years. Here negativism appears – unwillingness to follow the instructions of an adult, the desire to do the opposite and even rebellion against others – the child constantly quarrels with his parents, behaves aggressively and may even begin to swear at his parents, swing at toys.

Child from 3 to 7 years old (Preschool age)
Playing becomes the main activity of preschool children. In the game, children learn to fully communicate with each other, reproduce the activities of adults and the relationship between them. A child from 3 to 4 years old is already able to remove small toys from the table into the box and unbutton the buttons himself, and also knows the names of 3-4 colors. Understands the meaning of plot pictures, answers leading questions and can engage in exciting activities without stopping for at least 5 minutes. Until the age of 4, the child already knows his gender, is guided by the requests and requirements of an adult, and shows interest in the actions of other children, can imitate them.

By the age of 4 to 5, children already know how to do up buttons, buttons, zippers and dress themselves without assistance. And if you need help, you can politely ask for it. And they already know how to compose a story based on a plot picture, use the future tense and read poetry. During this period, the child begins to show socially approved forms of behavior (he can clean toys himself, perform elementary labor duties, etc.) and is already able to evaluate the act from the point of view of the social norm.

From the age of 5 to 6, the child learns to tie shoelaces (thread a shoelace into a shoe and tie it with a bow). At this age, children distinguish not only colors, but also 2-3 shades of any color, and can also act in accordance with a given rule: select the desired pictures, shade the figures, etc. At this age, the child can already describe his feelings and understand what “friendship”, “happiness”, “love”, “lie”, “joy” are. During this period, children begin to address adults as “you” and regulate their behavior in accordance with the learned norms and rules (restrains aggressive reactions, helps friends, etc.).

About age groups in pediatrics.

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