Baby Development Milestones: What to Expect in the First Year

Watching your baby grow and develop is an exciting and rewarding experience. From the moment they’re born, babies begin to learn and explore their surroundings. Over the course of their first year of life, they will reach many important baby development milestones that will set the stage for their future growth and development.

Physical baby development milestones

One of the most visible aspects of a baby’s development is their physical growth and motor skills. From learning to grasp objects to taking their first steps, babies go through a remarkable transformation in their first year. Here’s what to expect:

At birth:

Newborn baby able to suck and move their legs and arms

Babies are already able to move their arms and legs, and they may grasp objects placed in their hands. They are also able to suck and swallow, which is essential for feeding.

In the first 2-3 months

In the first 2-3 months, most babies are able to lift their head briefly when lying on their stomach and can push up with their arms. They may also begin to reach for and grasp objects.

At 4-6 months

Most babies are able to roll over from their stomach to their back and vice versa. They may sit with support and grasp objects with their hands. They may also begin to explore objects with their mouth.

By 7-9 months

Sitting unsupported will be the new physical development that you might notice, babies will also start to crawl, and stand with support. They may also start to pull themselves up to a standing position.

 

Reaching the end of the first year

Most babies are able to walk while holding onto furniture or with the support of an adult and may take their first steps independently.

Baby standing

Cognitive baby development milestones

While physical development is certainly important, cognitive development is also crucial in a baby’s first year. This includes learning to recognize faces and objects, understand language, and explore their environment. Here’s what to expect of baby cognitive development milestones:

At Birth

Babies are able to recognize their mother’s voice and may turn their head toward it. They are also able to distinguish between different smells and tastes.

In the first 2-3 months baby development milestones

baby smiling

Babies may begin to recognize familiar faces and objects and may start to smile in response to a caregiver’s voice or touch. They may also start to imitate facial expressions.

At 4-6 months

Babies may start to babble and make sounds, and may begin to imitate sounds and facial expressions. They may also start to explore their environment more actively.

By 7-9 months

Babies may start to understand simple words and commands, such as “no” or “come here.” They may also start to play more intentionally, such as by dropping objects to see what happens.

Reaching the end of the first year

Babies may start to use simple gestures, such as pointing, to communicate. They may also start to understand cause-and-effect relationships and may be able to imitate more complex actions.

 

Remember that every baby develops at their own pace, so don’t worry if your baby doesn’t reach all of these baby development milestones exactly when expected. However, if you have concerns about your baby’s development, talk to your pediatrician. They can help you determine if there are any issues that need further evaluation or intervention.

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