Baby Milestones Month-by-Month: What to Expect and When

Watching your baby grow is one of the most rewarding parts of parenthood. Each month brings exciting new developments, and while every baby grows at their own pace, there are general milestones you can look out for in that magical first year.

Month 1: Your baby begins to recognize your voice and may briefly lift their head during tummy time. Reflexes like sucking and grasping are strong.

Month 2: Smiles start to appear—real ones! Your baby may begin cooing and making eye contact, and their head control slowly improves.

Month 3: You’ll notice more alertness, longer wake windows, and a stronger neck. Baby may bat at toys and follow movements with their eyes.

Month 4: Rolling from tummy to back may happen now. Look for giggles, hand-to-mouth play, and increased social interaction.

Month 5: Baby is curious and reaching for everything. They may start pushing up on arms and even sit with a little support.

Month 6: Sitting independently is coming! Many babies also begin babbling with different sounds and may start to recognize their name.

Month 7: Rolling both ways and starting to scoot or pivot is common. Expect more advanced hand coordination and stronger emotional reactions.

Month 8: Some babies start crawling. They love exploring, transferring toys from hand to hand, and showing signs of separation anxiety.

Month 9: Pulling to stand and cruising along furniture begins. Fine motor skills like pincer grasp start developing.

Month 10–11: Cruising gets more confident, and baby may begin standing unsupported. Their babbling might include “mama” or “dada” with intent.

Month 12: First steps often happen now—but if not, that’s okay too! Baby is more expressive, interactive, and curious than ever.

Remember, milestones are guidelines, not deadlines. Every baby is beautifully unique—celebrate their pace.