Kids grow fast! Birth through age five is an especially exciting time as kids learn to do many new things like smiling, talking, walking and making friends.
Here are 10 ages and developmental milestones to watch, from the American Academy of Pediatrics. While most children meet these social, emotional and cognitive milestones around a certain age, some may take longer to reach them.
AAP recommends that children receive screening for development at 9, 18, and 24 or 30 months and for autism at 18 and 24 months. Screening can be done anytime a parent or provider has a concern.
If you ever have questions about your child's development, talk with your pediatrician or family medicine provider.
By 2 months: Tries to look at their parent and pays attention to faces. By 4 months: Copies facial movements, such as smiling or frowning, and responds to affection. By 6 months: Likes to look at self in the mirror; brings objects to mouth. By 9 months: Has favorite toys and picks up small items between thumb and forefinger. Around 12 months: Puts out arm or leg to help with dressing; follows simple directions. At 18 months: Explores alone if a parent is nearby; points to a body part when asked. By 2 years: Gets excited to see other children; begins sorting shapes and colors. By 3 years: Is able to dress self; completes puzzles with three or four pieces. By 4 years: Is able to tell the difference between real and make-believe; predicts what will happen next in a book. By 5 years: Wants to be like their friends; is able to draw a person with six body parts.Help your Baby Develop Motor Skills | Track Baby Milestones (pathways.org)
Want a checklist to share with your pediatrician? The CDC has milestone checklists from newborn to 5 years of age.
Take the completed checklist to your child's next well-child visit. Share all the milestones your child is reaching, and any concerns you may have.
Updated 8/18/22