Is Your Baby Meeting Their Milestones? When to Be Concerned
Is Your Baby Meeting Their Milestones? When to Be Concerned
Introduction
Every baby develops at their own pace—but as a parent, it’s natural to wonder if your child is progressing normally. Milestones are helpful guidelines to track your baby’s physical, emotional, and cognitive development. Here’s how to know if your baby is on track and when it’s time to seek professional advice.
1. What Are Baby Milestones?
Milestones are specific skills or behaviors most babies achieve by a certain age.
They’re grouped into categories like:
- Motor skills (rolling over, sitting up, walking)
- Language skills (babbling, saying first words)
- Social skills (smiling, responding to voices)
- Cognitive skills (problem-solving, understanding cause and effect)
Related read: Understanding Baby Milestones: What to Expect in the First Year
2. Typical Milestones by Age
3 Months
- Lifts head during tummy time
- Smiles socially
- Tracks movement with eyes
6 Months
- Rolls both ways
- Begins babbling (ba, da, ma)
- Recognizes familiar faces
9 Months
- Sits without support
- Crawls or begins scooting
- Understands “no” and simple commands
12 Months
- Pulls to stand and may take first steps
- Says “mama” or “dada” intentionally
- Waves goodbye, claps hands
Related read: When Do Babies Start Walking? Signs & Tips for Encouragement
3. When to Be Concerned
Every baby is different, but certain signs may indicate a delay that needs attention:
- No social smile by 3 months
- No babbling by 6 months
- Not sitting by 9 months
- Not crawling or pulling to stand by 12 months
- No words by 15 months
If your baby seems to lose skills they had previously developed (e.g. stops responding to their name), speak to your pediatrician right away.
4. What Causes Developmental Delays?
Delays can stem from various factors:
- Premature birth
- Hearing or vision problems
- Neurological conditions
- Environmental factors or lack of stimulation
Sometimes, there’s no clear reason—early intervention can still make a big difference.
5. What to Do If You’re Concerned
- Track your baby’s milestones using a checklist or app
- Document your observations and bring them to doctor’s appointments
- Talk to your pediatrician about your concerns
- Ask for a developmental screening if you notice delays
- If needed, work with a therapist or early intervention program
6. Encouraging Healthy Development at Home
- Provide plenty of tummy time and free movement
- Read and sing to your baby every day
- Respond to their cues and talk to them frequently
- Offer toys that promote exploration and motor skills
- Avoid screen time and encourage hands-on play
Related read: How to Encourage Your Baby’s Cognitive Growth Through Play
Final Thoughts
Not every baby will follow the same path, but being informed about typical milestones can help you support your child’s growth. If you have concerns, don’t wait—early detection and support can lead to better long-term outcomes.
Looking for milestone-friendly toys and books?
Visit Kiddie Kloset for expert-recommended tools that support every stage of your baby’s development.
