Parents are constantly looking forward to baby milestones. The transformation of a helpless newborn baby to a rambunctious 1 year old toddler is amazing. Just watching your baby’s amazing achievements and changes every month within the first year is heartwarming and exciting for all parents. But is there a way to know if your baby is truly acquiring skills and abilities that are appropriate for his/her age?
Here is a month-by-month developmental milestone checklist to help you figure out what to expect in a year.
Baby milestones: the first 12 months from newborn to toddler.
1 month old
1 month old
Your 1 month old baby should be able to stare and focus on your face; stretch his body as well as his fingers and limbs; hear things quite well and identify your voice; and be able to raise his head slowly while lying on his stomach.
2 month old
2 month old
Your two month old baby should be able to smile and track an object with her eyes when it is held inches away from her face. This month, you’ll also hear her delicious gurgles and laughs. She may also make excited and happy noises; kick her legs and wave her arms repeatedly. See if she can also grasps a finger automatically when placed on her palm.
3 month old
Your 3 month old baby might be trying to roll over. He might also be swiping or batting at objects in front of him; trying to bear weight on his legs when supported;, and sucking on his fists and fingers.
4 month old
4 month old
Your 4 month old baby should appear to listen intently to what you are saying; begin babbling; be able to completely roll over; try to pull herself to sit up. And don’t be surprised if you catch her trying to suck her toes!
5 month old
Your 5 month old baby should be aggressively reaching out for different objects. He might also be able to blow raspberries; roll over and push up his body using his arms; and hug you or stuffed animals tightly.
6 month old
6 month old
Your 6 month old baby should be able to play and enjoy peekaboo. Since she will be able to see across the room by now, she will probably raise her arms whenever you are around. Your baby also might be able to drink from a sippy cup and sit up without any support.
7 month old
Your 7 month old baby should be able to grab larger objects; babble loudly; attempt to crawl by shuffling and wiggling. She may also be able to stand up by grabbing on to something.
8 month old
Your 8 month old baby can probably hold his own bottle. He may also attempt to feed himself using his hands or cutlery, and try to pick up small object using his fingers.
9 month old
Your 9 month old baby should be able to say simple syllables; bottom shuffle across the room if not crawling; clap hands; stand up unsupported for a few seconds; climb up furniture and stairs; and respond to her named being called.
10 month old
Your 10 month old baby should be able to understand “yes” and “no”; cruise around the room by grabbing on to furniture; wave. He might even try to take a few steps alone!
11-12 month old
11-12 month old
Your 11 to 12 month old baby should be able to hand an object over to you especially if you ask for it; follow basic directions; put objects in containers; and drink from a cup. She might even be able to use a few words to identify certain objects.
At 1 year old
Remember, some kids hit their baby milestones earlier while others are late bloomers. Avoid comparing your child to other babies to prevent depression or panic. If you are worried about your baby’s development, see your pediatrician.
