Developmental Milestones

Parenting Resources and Community Outreach

Parents are almost always on the lookout for their baby’s important “firsts.” The first time he smiles, rolls over, sits up by himself, talks, and walks are important milestones. But developmental stages can also be a source of worry, especially when the neighborhood playground is your main source of comparison.

Please remember that no two babies are alike. Development is a process that unfolds at a different pace for every child. Please use the following information as a general guide to a few of the things you can look for at certain stages of your child’s first year. If you have concerns about your child’s development, talk to your pediatrician during a well-baby checkup.

3 months:

Wiggles both arms and legs equally when lying on her back.
Makes noises such as cooing or gurgling.
Lifts head and chest when on her tummy.
Watches (follows) a moving object or person.
Grasps a rattle or finger.
Smiles.

6 months:

Holds head up and looks around.
Recognizes familiar faces and smiles.
Coos, giggles, and make lots of noise.
Rolls over from tummy to back and back to tummy.
Begins to push up on hands and knees, sometimes as if ready to crawl.
Responds to sounds.
Notices (sees) small objects, such as small toys or crumbs.

9 months:

Sits up without much help.
Starts to pull up to a standing position.
Crawls or scoots.
Makes ma-ma or da-da sounds.
Uses thumbs and forefingers to pick up little things.
Begins imitating sounds.

12 months:

Plays interactive games like peek-a-boo.
Crawls on hands and knees.
Pulls up to stand.
Cruises around while holding onto furniture.
Walks with assistance (holding hand).
Responds to music by bouncing.
Responds to his name.
Says a word or two.