Welcoming a new baby into the world is a magical experience filled with wonder and anticipation. As parents, we eagerly await each milestone, marveling at the incredible journey of growth and development our little ones embark upon. Every milestone should be celebrated, from their first smile to their first steps. In this article, we’ll explore 14 baby milestones and when you can expect them.

This post may contain affiliate links meaning I get commissions for purchases made in this post. Read my disclosure policy here.

First Smile (1-2 Months)

The first smile, a heartwarming milestone typically observed between 1 and 2 months, signifies a baby’s burgeoning social awareness. As infants become more attuned to their caregivers, they exhibit spontaneous grins, reflecting a connection formed through interaction and affection. This early display of emotion is a foundational step in developing social communication.

Coos and Babbles (2-4 Months)

Babies begin to explore the world of sound between the ages of 2 and 4 months through cooing and babbling. These early vocalizations are their way of experimenting with different sounds and tones as they become increasingly aware of their surroundings. During this stage, babies may respond to stimuli with gentle coos and repetitive babbling sounds, laying the groundwork for future language development.

Rolling Over (4-6 Months)

Around the age of 4 to 6 months, babies typically master the art of rolling over, a significant motor milestone in their development. This newfound ability allows them to transition from lying on their backs to their stomachs. Rolling over signifies improved muscle strength and coordination and enhances their exploration of their surroundings.

First Solid Foods (6 Months)

Around six months, most babies are ready to eat solid foods. This milestone marks the transition from exclusive milk or formula feeding to introducing new tastes and textures. Parents typically start with simple, easily digestible foods like pureed fruits or vegetables, cereals, or mashed-up proteins. Introducing solids at this stage helps babies explore different flavors and develop crucial oral motor skills.

Sitting Up (6-8 Months)

Between 6 and 8 months, babies typically develop the strength and balance to sit up without support. This milestone marks a significant advancement in their motor skills and independence. Babies can explore their surroundings from a new vantage point as they gain control over their body movements. Sitting up unassisted also enhances their interaction with toys and people, fostering cognitive and social development.

Crawling (6-10 Months)

Crawling, typically starting between 6 to 10 months, signifies a pivotal moment in a baby’s development. At this stage, infants acquire the coordination and muscle strength necessary to move on their hands and knees, marking a significant milestone in their journey toward mobility. It also lays the foundation for more complex motor skills and spatial awareness.

First Tooth (6-12 Months)

The emergence of a baby’s first tooth typically occurs between 6 to 12 months of age. This milestone marks an essential stage in their development and is often accompanied by teething symptoms, such as drooling, fussiness, and chewing on objects. The first tooth’s appearance signifies healthy growth and lays the foundation for future dental development.

Standing (9-12 Months)

Around 9 to 12 months, babies start standing with support from furniture or caregivers. This marks the initial stage of their journey towards independent standing and walking. As they develop strength and coordination, they gradually transition from sitting to standing, gaining confidence. This milestone sets the stage for further motor skill advancements, such as cruising along furniture and eventually taking their first independent steps.

First Words (10-14 Months)

Between 10 and 14 months, many babies begin to articulate their first recognizable words, such as “mama” or “dada.” This marks a crucial milestone in language development, signifying the emergence of communication skills. Parents often eagerly await this milestone as it provides insight into their baby’s thoughts and desires.

Walking (12-15 Months)

Walking independently, typically achieved between 12 and 15 months, marks a significant developmental milestone for babies. This newfound ability signifies a crucial step towards autonomy and exploration as they gain the confidence to navigate their surroundings without assistance. Mastering walking empowers babies to engage more actively with their environment, fostering physical coordination and spatial awareness.

Pointing (12-18 Months)

Pointing, typically emerging between 12 to 18 months, is a significant social milestone for babies. It signifies their growing ability to communicate and share experiences with others. Babies express their interests, desires, and observations by pointing and bridging the gap between themselves and those around them.

Drinking from a Cup (12-18 Months)

Transitioning from bottle or breast-to-cup drinking, typically occurring between 12 and 18 months, is a significant step in a baby’s independence journey. It signifies their growing ability to self-feed and control their liquid intake. This milestone empowers babies to develop crucial motor skills and establishes healthier drinking habits.

Stacking Blocks (18-24 Months)

Around 18 to 24 months, toddlers develop the hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills necessary for stacking blocks. This milestone marks an essential stage in their cognitive and physical development as they learn to manipulate objects with precision and purpose. Toddlers enhance their problem-solving abilities, spatial awareness, and creativity through the simple yet engaging activity of stacking blocks.

Potty Training (18-36 Months)

Mastering potty training fosters a sense of independence and control over their bodies, boosting self-confidence and self-esteem. Potty training involves gaining control over bladder and bowel muscles, which requires neurological and muscular maturity. This skill development contributes to overall physical coordination and movement.