As parents, don’t we always feel that our children grow quickly? One day they are babbling, and the next day they are speaking complex words and sentences! But when is the exact time frame for these milestones to occur? You will find a month-by-month guide right here in this article.
What exactly are developmental milestones?
Developmental milestones are key skills or behaviours that the child needs to develop by a certain age. From crawling to babbling, all of these are key milestones that your child goes through.
A pediatrician would usually track your child’s milestones. If you feel something is off, trust your instincts and contact the pediatrician. Let us look at some developmental milestones by age, so that you can get an idea.
Milestones:
There are many milestones that a child goes through. You need not worry if your child misses one of these milestones, since each child has their own pace of development. If you have any doubts, do consult your pediatrician.
1-month-old baby:
Hands closed into fists.
Can put their hands close to their face.
Reflex actions (sucking, grasping) can be active.
Might turn face towards familiar voices or sounds.
2 months baby:
Moves their limbs.
Open and close their hands.
Smiles and reacts happily to you.
Reacts to loud noises.
4 months baby:
Open their mouths when they see food.
Grasps objects placed in their hands.
Coos.
Can turn their heads or hold their head up without support.
6 months baby:
Puts objects in their mouths.
Reaches for objects they want.
Responds to familiar voices and people.
Can roll to their back.
9 months baby:
Sits up without support.
Reacts to their name being called.
Cries or clings to you if you try to leave.
Plays peek-a-boo.
12-month-old baby:
Develops spatial awareness (For instance, dropping toys inside a bucket).
Plays hide and seek.
Ability to say words with repeated syllables like “dada” or “mama”.
Able to walk around while simultaneously grasping an object.
15-month-old baby:
Mimics or copies other children’s actions.
Shows affection (hugs, cuddles, etc).
Uses basic objects like a telephone or cups.
Walks or takes a few steps.
18 months old:
Tries to say more words.
Follows simple directions (For instance, pass that book to me).
Can feed themselves, but spillage might occur.
Climbs the chair or cushion and gets down without any help.
2 years:
Detects emotions like sadness or happiness in others.
Plays with more than one toy.
Waves goodbye.
Kicks and runs. Walks with slight support.
3 years:
Able to hold a conversation.
Draw shapes.
Puts on clothes by themselves.
Joins in to play with other kids.
Conclusion:
Every child develops at their own pace. Some might hit their milestones early, whereas in others it might take time, and that is perfectly fine. It is important to celebrate your child’s little challenges, joys, and happiness. By understanding their milestones, you would be better equipped to deal with them through love, patience, and understanding.
