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 lift head briefly, possibly to as much as 45 or 90 degrees, when placed on stomach.
• Turns head to keep his nose off the mattress so he can breathe.
• May roll part way to his side when on his back.
• Held in a sitting position may keep head in line with his back.
• May dig heels into the mattress and propel body the full length of crib when on his back.
• Focuses on a face.
• Sees bright and colorful objects.
• Follows object moved in an arch about 6 inches above his face, and may clasp it with hands or feet.

Intellectual Development

• Remembers objects for 2 ½ seconds.
• Can distinguish objects from people and even from other objects.
• Senses changes in temperature.
• Reacts to bad smells.
• Can tell sweet from bitter tastes.
• Anticipates feeding time.

Social And Emotional Development

• Displays individual temperament in activity level, response to stimulation, ability to be soothed or quieted when crying.
• Quiets when picked up.
• May still be comforted by swaddling or being held upright, close to parent's shoulder.
• May smile in response to your smile.