Watching a child grow is exciting. From the first smile to the first step, every stage of development brings new skills and joys. These important skills are called developmental milestones. Milestones are signs that show how a child is learning to move, talk, think, and connect with others.

This guide will walk you through milestones by age so you can better understand what to expect and how to support your child’s journey. Remember, every child is unique and may grow at their own pace.

What Are Developmental Milestones?

Developmental milestones are skills most children learn around the same age. Examples include rolling over, walking, talking, or making friends. They give parents and doctors clues about how a child is growing.

Milestones are grouped into different areas:

• Physical (Gross Motor): Skills like crawling, walking, and running.
• Fine Motor: Small movements like holding a crayon or buttoning a shirt.
• Speech and Language: Babbling, saying words, and forming sentences.
• Social and Emotional: Smiling, playing with others, and showing feelings.
• Thinking (Cognitive): Solving puzzles, counting, and remembering things.

Newborn Development: 0–1 Month

• Lifts head slightly when on tummy
• Looks at faces and follows movement
• Cries to show needs

Baby Development: 1–3 Months

• Smiles at people
• Makes cooing sounds
• Moves arms and legs with more control

Baby Development: 4–6 Months

• Rolls over
• Reaches for toys
• Starts babbling

Baby Development: 7–9 Months

• Sits without help
• Crawls or scoots
• Responds to name

Baby Development: 10–12 Months

• Pulls up to stand
• Takes first steps with support
• Says simple words like “mama” or “dada”

Child Development: 1 Year

• Walks with or without help
• Points to objects
• Enjoys simple games like peek-a-boo

Child Development: 2 Years

• Runs and climbs
• Puts two words together (“want milk”)
• Starts pretend play

Child Development: 3 Years

• Pedals a tricycle
• Uses short sentences
• Takes turns in play

Child Development: 4–5 Years (Preschool)

• Hops on one foot
• Knows colors and shapes
• Plays with friends and shares toys

School-Age Development: 6–12 Years

• Grows stronger and more coordinated
• Reads and writes
• Develops close friendships
• Understands rules and fairness

Teen Development: 13–18 Years

• Goes through puberty changes
• Thinks more like an adult
• Builds independence
• Forms identity and long-term goals

Measuring Growth with Charts

Doctors use growth charts to track height and weight over time. Boys and girls have different charts because they grow at different rates. Growth charts are helpful, but they do not tell the full story. Doctors also look at milestones, family history, and overall health.

When to Ask for Help

If your child is not meeting milestones or suddenly loses a skill they had before, talk to your doctor. Sometimes, extra support like speech therapy or occupational therapy can make a big difference.

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Supporting Your Child’s Development

• Play together: Games and play help children learn skills naturally.
• Read daily: Builds language and imagination.
• Encourage movement: Running, climbing, and dancing build strength.
• Be patient: Every child develops at their own pace. Celebrate progress, not just perfection.

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Final Thoughts

Child development milestones are helpful guides to understand how children grow. By knowing what to expect, you can support your child and celebrate each achievement along the way. If you ever feel unsure, your pediatrician is the best partner to answer questions and provide guidance.

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