Your baby’s first year is full of intense growth and change, both for them and for you. Every coo, smile, and step is a milestone that marks different stages of their development. But it’s also common to wonder: Is my baby developing “on time?”

The truth is that babies grow at their own pace. Think of milestones as helpful benchmarks, not strict deadlines. Understanding what to expect in each stage can help you support your baby while reducing unnecessary worry.

Baby First Year Milestones WFMC Health

Month-by-Month Highlights

Here’s a general guide to common milestones, according to the CDC:

By 2 months old:

  • Lifts head briefly during tummy time
  • Responds to sounds and faces
  • Starts to smile socially
  • Calms down when picked up

By 4 months old:

  • Holds toys when given
  • Brings hands to mouth
  • Begins cooing with sounds like “ooo” or “ahh”
  • Moves or makes noise to get your attention

By 6 months old:

  • Laughs
  • Reaches for and grabs toys, brings them to mouth
  • Rolls over from tummy to back
  • Responds with sounds when spoken to

By 9 months old:

  • Emotes with facial expressions (happy, sad, angry)
  • Recognizes their name
  • Sits without support and can get into sitting position
  • Starts to develop object permanence

By 12 months old:

  • Waves hello and bye-bye
  • Pulls up to stand and/or takes supported steps
  • Understands “no”
  • Calls parents “mama” or “dada”
  • Picks up objects with thumb and pointer finger (the pincer grasp)
Baby Milestones First Year WFMC Health

When to Check In With Your Provider

If your baby is missing several milestones in a row or seems to be regressing (losing skills they previously had) it’s worth mentioning to your pediatrician. Some signs to watch for include:

  • No eye contact or social smiling by 3 months
  • Not sitting up by 9 months
  • No babbling or gestures (like pointing) by 12 months

Your provider can help you understand whether there’s cause for concern or simply a variation in timing.

How to Support Development at Home

You don’t need special tools or expensive toys to help your baby grow. Here are a few simple ways to encourage their development:

  • Tummy time every day builds strength and coordination
  • Talk and sing to your baby. They’re learning language from you!
  • Respond to their cues and expressions to build emotional connection
  • Read together (even if your baby just chews on the book)

One of the best things you can do for your baby’s development is to engage and connect with your baby regularly.

Enjoy Every Milestone, Big or Small

Every baby is unique. Milestones are meant to be a helpful guide, not pressure you as a parent. If you have questions or concerns, your child’s pediatrician and care team are there to help. Remember: you’re doing a great job! Your attention and care make all the difference.

This article is meant for informational purposes only. If you have questions or would like further information, make an appointment with your primary care provider.

This blog post was first published on WFMCHealth.org.