The first year of your baby’s life is filled with incredible growth, discovery, and change. From tiny movements to first words, each milestone is a celebration of development and connection. While every baby progresses at their own pace, here’s a general month-by-month guide to help you know what to expect—and when to cheer.
Dr. Allison Grant, Pediatrician: “Milestones are markers of development—not deadlines. Use them as a guide, not a checklist.”
Month 1
✔️ Lifts head briefly during tummy time
✔️ Responds to loud sounds
✔️ Begins to focus on faces
✔️ Makes jerky, arm movements
Month 2
✔️ Starts to smile socially
✔️ Follows things with eyes
✔️ Coos and makes gurgling sounds
✔️ Holds head up more steadily
Month 3
✔️ Recognizes familiar voices
✔️ Opens and shuts hands
✔️ Pushes up on arms during tummy time
✔️ Turns head toward sound
Month 4
✔️ Laughs out loud
✔️ Reaches for toys
✔️ Begins to roll from tummy to back
✔️ Bats at objects with hands
Month 5
✔️ Explores toys with mouth
✔️ Rolls in both directions
✔️ Recognizes own name
✔️ Shows emotion (joy, frustration)
Month 6
✔️ Sits with minimal support
✔️ Babbles with consonants (e.g., “ba,” “da”)
✔️ Transfers objects hand-to-hand
✔️ Responds to facial expressions
Month 7
✔️ Sits without support
✔️ Begins crawling or scooting
✔️ Shows interest in mirrors
✔️ Understands “no” (may not always obey!)
Month 8
✔️ Plays peek-a-boo
✔️ Develops pincer grasp (thumb and finger)
✔️ Responds to own name
✔️ Imitates sounds and gestures
Month 9
✔️ Pulls to stand
✔️ Cruises along furniture
✔️ Waves “bye-bye”
✔️ Shows stranger anxiety
Month 10
✔️ Stacks or bangs toys together
✔️ Tries to say “mama” or “dada” with intent
✔️ Understands basic words (e.g., “ball,” “milk”)
✔️ Explores cause and effect through play
Month 11
✔️ Stands alone for a few seconds
✔️ Claps hands
✔️ Imitates speech sounds
✔️ Looks at correct object when named
Month 12
✔️ Takes first steps (may still be assisted)
✔️ Says one or two clear words
✔️ Points to request or show interest
✔️ Expresses a wider range of emotions
Tips for Supporting Development
✔️ Encourage tummy time from day one
✔️ Read, sing, and talk daily to support language skills
✔️ Offer safe toys to encourage grasping, reaching, and exploring
✔️ Follow your baby’s cues—they thrive on interaction and love
💡 Note: If you’re concerned about missed milestones, speak with your pediatrician. Early intervention is effective and supportive.
The Role of Moogco Silver Nursing Cups
Feeding plays a key role in development, but frequent nursing can cause nipple soreness. Moogco Silver Nursing Cups soothe and protect so you can nourish your baby in comfort.
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Final Thoughts: Celebrate Every Step
Each milestone marks not just growth—but your baby’s discovery of their world. Whether it’s a smile, a roll, or a wobbly step, every achievement is a reminder of how far they’ve come—and how beautifully they’re growing.
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