Remember that all babies are individuals and develop at their own pace. Premature infants, especially, reach many milestones later than their same-age peers. This checklist should be used only to get a general sense for where your baby is or where he is heading. If you have any concerns about your child's development, consult with your physician.

Physical Development

• May stand alone.
• Cruises, walking while holding onto furniture.
• May walk unsupported.
• Squats and stoops.
• May climb chairs, counters, tables, and the like.
• Holds a spoon.
• Puts blocks in and out of small box.
• Stacks a few blocks.
• May undress self.
• Feeds self with fingers.

Intellectual Development

• Establishes sense of self and sense of others.
• Remembers events for longer time.
• Imitates people who may not be present.
• Searches for hidden objects.
• Understands and obeys short commands: "Give it to mumma," "Bring me the bottle," "Wave bye-bye."

Social And Emotional Development

• Expresses and recognizes many emotions.
• Develops sense of humor.
• May throw temper tantrums.
• Alternates short periods of independence with bouts of intense clinging.
• Still exhibits stranger anxiety.
• Wants to do things without help.
• Loves an audience.
• May have intense separation anxiety.

Language Development

• Says several words beyond mama and dada.
• May babble short sentences.