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
Cycles arms and legs when on back.
May remain in seated position for a minute or longer before toppling.
Tight-fisted grip loosens.
May hold object placed into hands for few moments--and try to eat it.
May swipe at items in front of him.
On stomach, lifts and holds head 45 degrees.
Turns and otherwise responds to sound.
May sleep four to seven hours a night, with two or three daytime naps.
Patterns of sleep, waking, feeding, crying may still be varied and disorganized.
Moves bowels often (3 to 4 times daily).
Stares at objects that are 12-24" away, begins to coordinate eye movements.
Intellectual Development
Differentiates between mother, father, and strangers.
Reacts to sounds, either by crying, startling, or quieting.
Stares indefinitely at surroundings, especially large moving objects.
Anticipates familiar activities.
Shows great regard for his own hand.
Prefers looking at patterns and representations of a human face.
Begins to expect feeding at certain intervals.
Social And Emotional Development
Tries to focus on face or voice.
Stays awake longer if people interact with him.
Quiets when held or spoken to.
May smile when smiled at.
Language Development
Coos.
Vocalizes when talked to.
Dr. Bettye M. Caldwell Ph.D. Professor of Pediatrics in Child Development and Education
Our parenting advice is given as suggestions only. We recommend you also consult your healthcare provider, and urge you to contact them immediately if your question is urgent or about a medical condition.