If you’re curious about baby milestones, you’re not alone! Each child is unique, but there are typical developmental stages that most babies follow. Assuming your little one is growing at a standard pace, here’s a handy guide to the milestones you can anticipate.
Smiling
Smiling – By around two months old, your baby should start giving you intentional smiles. That’s right, it’s not just gas! Engaging in conversation and smiling at your baby encourages them to return the favor.
Rolling Over
Rolling Over – Keep an eye out for your tiny mover around the three-month mark. Rolling over typically occurs between four and six months, but some babies show off their new skills as early as three months. You might find them rolling over during moments when you least expect it—like when you’re sneaking in a restroom break and hear a soft “thud” from the crib.
Teething
Teething – Teething can begin as early as three months, and if your baby is drooling excessively and seems a bit crankier than usual, they might be cutting their first tooth.
Sleeping Through the Night
Sleeping Through the Night – The definition of “through the night” varies widely among parents and babies. Generally, by four months, many babies start sleeping for about six hours straight. If your little one isn’t sleeping six to eight hours by six to eight months, it might be time to reassess your bedtime routine or consult your pediatrician, especially if you suspect colic or digestive troubles.
Starting Solids
Starting Solids – Between four and six months, your baby is likely to show interest in your food. This is typically when you can start introducing solid foods. Remember, babies might need to try a new food four to five times before they accept it, so patience is key!
Crawling
Crawling – Most babies start crawling between six to nine months. Some may begin scooting or belly crawling earlier. Encourage this exciting mobility by providing plenty of tummy time.
Sitting Unsupported
Sitting Unsupported – By about six months, babies can usually sit with some support, but it’s often around eight months that they can sit independently.
Clapping, Kissing, Waving
Clapping, Kissing, Waving – As your baby learns to sit up (between six and nine months), they’ll begin to develop social skills, like clapping, blowing kisses, and waving. Imitation is a great way to encourage these behaviors, so don’t hesitate to clap along with them or play games like patty-cake.
Grabbing and Holding
Grabbing and Holding – Most babies start reaching for objects that catch their interest early on, but they typically won’t grasp items with both hands until around six months. By eight months, their fine motor skills improve, allowing them to pinch and hold small items. This is a perfect time to introduce finger foods, but be prepared for everything to end up in their mouth!
Pulling Up and Standing
Pulling Up and Standing – Babies often start pulling themselves up around eight months, though it may take longer if they were late crawlers. By twelve months, they should definitely be showing signs of this new skill. Don’t worry if they plop down in frustration; learning takes time!
Cruising and Walking
Cruising and Walking – Once babies discover they can stand while holding onto something, usually around nine months, they will start to cruise along furniture. Shortly thereafter, they may take their first unassisted steps, typically between twelve and fifteen months.
Talking
Talking – Around three to four months, your baby will start cooing, and soon after, they’ll begin babbling. By four to six months, they may say sounds like “mama” or “dada.” By nine months, they may be echoing words like “no” and “bye-bye,” even if they don’t fully understand them yet. Expect their vocabulary to take off between twelve and fifteen months.
For parents of premature babies, it’s essential to track developmental milestones using corrected age, which is based on their due date rather than their birth date.
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In summary, while every baby develops at their own pace, these milestones can help you gauge your child’s growth and development.
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