What to Expect: Months 1-3
Month 1
Most babies should be able to . . .
- Lift head briefly when on stomach
- Respond to sound
- Blink at bright lights
- Stare and focus at faces
Some babies will probably be able to . . .
- Follow objects moved about 6 to 10 inches from face
- Ooohs and aahhs
- Turn towards familiar voices and sounds
- Look and see black and white patterns
Some babies could possibly be able to . . .
- Smile in response to your smile
- Laugh
- Hold up head at 45 degree angle
- Hold head steady when upright
Month 2
Most babies should be able to . . .
- Smile in response to your smile
- Follow objects with eyes
- Make noises other than crying
- Repeat Ooohs and aahhs
Some babies will probably be able to . . .
- Hold up head at 45 degree angle while on stomach
- Make smoother movements
- Smile and laugh in response to you
- Hold head steady when upright
Some babies could possibly be able to . . .
- Raise chest and head (do a mini push up), while on stomach
- Reach for an object
- Roll over one way
- Bring both hands together
- Bear weight on legs
Month 3
Most babies should be able to . . .
- Hold up head at 45 degree angle while on stomach
- Hold head steady when upright
- Laugh and smile
- Recognize your face
- Open and shut hands
- Kick legs
Some babies will probably be able to . . .
- Recognize your voice
- Hold up head at 90 degree angle while on stomach
- Bring both hands together
- Squeal and coo in delight
- Do small mini pushups
Some babies could possibly be able to . . .
- Bear weight on both legs
- Bat at toys
- Reach for toys and objects
- Roll over
- Turn to familiar voices
- Make a razzing sound
(Back to Milestones)
Please note that these are only general developmental guidelines for an average healthy child. A healthy child may reach a developmental milestone earlier or later than the average shown in these guidelines. Each child develops differently and just because a child may appear to be behind in one developmental area does not mean there is something wrong. If you feel your child is behind in several areas of development, contact your pediatrician for advice.