Milestones in child development: A guide by Childhealthy
Understanding the typical developmental milestones that children should reach at various ages is vital for parents and caregivers. From motor skills to language development, social skills, and cognitive abilities, these milestones provide valuable insights into a child's growth and development. This guide discusses the key milestones children typically achieve at different ages, helping parents track their child's progress and identify any areas of concern.
Birth to 6 Months
Motor Skills
- Lifts head while lying on stomach
- Grasps objects with hands
- Rolls over from back to front
Language Development
- Coos and babbles
- Responds to sounds
- Imitates facial expressions and gestures
Social Skills
- Shows increasing interest in faces
- Smiles or laughs in response to interactions
- Develops attachment bonds with primary caregivers
Cognitive Abilities
- Demonstrates curiosity by reaching for objects
- Looks around the environment
- Shows interest in new stimuli
6 to 12 Months
Motor Skills
- Sits unsupported
- Crawls
- Pulls up to stand
- May take first steps
Language Development
- Understands simple words and gestures
- Responds to name
- May say first words (e.g., "mama," "dada")
Social Skills
- Becomes more interactive
- Engages in games like peek-a-boo
- Shows preference for familiar people
- May experience separation anxiety
Cognitive Abilities
- Explores cause-and-effect relationships (e.g., banging objects, dropping toys)
- Imitates observed actions
1 to 2 Years
Motor Skills
- Walks independently
- Climbs stairs
- Kicks a ball
- Scribbles with crayons
Language Development
- Uses simple words and phrases
- Understands simple instructions
- Follows routines
Social Skills
- Plays alongside other children
- Engages in simple pretend play
- Begins to show empathy
- Shares toys with peers
Cognitive Abilities
- Demonstrates problem-solving skills (e.g., fitting objects into containers, completing simple puzzles)
- Shows interest in books
- Enjoys looking at pictures and listening to stories
Conclusion
Understanding the typical developmental milestones that children should reach at various ages is essential for monitoring their growth and development. While every child develops at their own pace, tracking milestones can help parents identify any areas of concern and seek early intervention if needed. By providing a supportive and stimulating environment, parents can help their children reach their full potential and thrive.
For more information on child development and milestones, visit our health checks page or please click here to book an appointment with one of our team
Sources:
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice. If you have concerns about your child's development, please consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and recommendations tailored to your child's specific needs.
Related articles
Book your appointment
Clinic, remote appointments and home visits are available daily.
We can always find a time to suit you, so please do ask if you are having difficulty finding a suitable time.
