Developmental Checklist for 0-1 Year Olds

Babies change very quickly. During their first year of life, they master dozens of new skills, all of which build on each other and help them become more independent. While babies develop at different rates, most follow a typical pattern. Knowing what to expect can help you spot a potential developmental problem.

  1. Language Development

    • Babies do not talk, but they start to make sounds that prepare them for talking. By the end of the third month, your baby should recognize your voice and get quiet when she hears you talk. She also should begin to make sounds by this time. When she is 6 months old, she should make more sounds such as gurgling when she is playing. She also should use her voice to show pleasure or displeasure, instead of just crying. Hearing is associated with language development, and she should move her head toward certain sounds. By the time she is a year old, she might have a few simple words and should understand basic instructions and "No."

    Physical Development

    • The biggest physical milestone for a new baby is that he can hold his own head up. When he is about a month old, he should be able to hold up his head when he is lying on his stomach. By 2 months, he should be able to hold his head up for extended periods of time. By 5 months, he should find his own hands and feet and play with them. At 6 months, he should be rolling over both ways; some babies even can sit up unassisted. Around 9 months, he might begin to pull himself up and cruise around the room. Some babies can stand on their own for a few seconds by 11 months, and some are walking by 12 months.

    Cognitive Development

    • Your baby should smile and laugh around 1 to 2 months. By 3 months, she should be able to visually track objects, and at 5 months, she can distinguish between bold colors. At 7 months, she knows what objects she wants and should pull them toward her. At 8 months, she should pass objects from hand to hand. By 12 months, expect her to imitate what she sees and begin to gesture for what she wants.

    Considerations

    • Every baby follows a different developmental pattern. If your baby is taking longer to reach his milestones, do not panic; it is probably normal. If you are genuinely concerned, ask your parent educator or pediatrician if there is cause for concern and what you can do to help your child reach his milestones.

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