Every baby develops at their own pace, but there are general milestones that most babies reach within certain windows. Knowing what to look for helps you celebrate your baby's progress — and spot anything that might need attention.
1–2 Months
- Lifts head briefly during tummy time
- Focuses on faces and follows movement with eyes
- Responds to sounds — startles at loud noises
- First social smile (usually around 6 weeks)
3–4 Months
- Holds head steady without support
- Reaches for and bats at objects
- Laughs and coos
- Recognises familiar faces and voices
5–6 Months
- Rolls from tummy to back (and back to tummy)
- Sits with support
- Transfers objects between hands
- Shows interest in solid foods (readiness for weaning)
7–9 Months
- Sits independently
- Begins crawling or shuffling
- Babbles ("mama", "dada" — not yet with meaning)
- Develops object permanence (understands things exist when out of sight)
10–12 Months
- Pulls to stand and cruises along furniture
- May take first steps
- Uses "mama" and "dada" with meaning
- Waves bye-bye, claps hands
- Pincer grip — picks up small objects with thumb and finger
When to Speak to Your GP
If your baby isn't meeting milestones within the expected windows, or if they lose skills they previously had, speak to your health visitor or GP. Early intervention makes a significant difference for many developmental conditions.
Remember: milestones are guides, not rules. Premature babies are assessed from their corrected age, not birth age.