Your baby's first six months

Your baby’s first months of life are a series of tiny “firsts.” Although most children reach milestones by a specific age, it’s important to remember that each child develops at his or her own pace. If your child experiences a slight delay in some area, it is not necessarily a sign of a problem. However, talk to your child’s doctor if you are concerned. The chart below, reprinted from Babycenter.com, shows typical milestones from birth through six months.

Child's Age	Mastered Skills (what most kids can do)	Emerging Skills (half of kids can do)	Advanced Skills (a few kids can do)
One Month	Lifts head when lying on tummy Responds to sound Stares at face	Follows objects briefly with eyes Vocalizes: oohs and aahs Can see black-and-white patterns	Smiles and laughs Holds head at 45-degree angle
Two Months	Vocalizes: gurgles and coos Follows objects across field of vision; notices own hand Holds head up for short periods	Smiles and laughs Holds head at 45-degree angle Makes smoother movements	Holds head steady Can bear weight on legs Lifts head and shoulders when lying on tummy
Three Months	Recognizes your face and scent Holds head steady Visually tracks moving objects	Squeals, gurgles, and coos Blows bubbles Recognizes your face and does mini push-ups	Rolls over from tummy to back Turns toward loud sounds Can bring hands together; bats at toys
Four Months	Smiles and laughs Can bear weight on legs Coos when you talk to him or her	Can grasp a toy Rolls over from tummy to back	Imitates sounds: "baba," "dadda," and "mamma" Cuts first tooth May be ready for solid foods
Five Months	Distinguishes between bold colors Plays with own hands and feet	Recognizes own name Turns toward new sounds Rolls over in both directions	Sits momentarily without support Mouths objects May experience separation anxiety
Six Months	Turns toward sounds and voices Imitates sounds Rolls over in both directions	Is ready for solid foods Sits without support Mouths objects	Lunges forward or starts crawling Jabbers

Babies