In the formative years of 0-6 months,

several key developmental milestones and experiences are expected:

Remember every baby is different, and milestones may be reached or exceed at various months, use this as a guide.

Birth- 3 Months 

Motor Skills:

• Lifts head briefly when on tummy

• Kicks legs if uncomfortable or excited​

• Open and closes hands

• Brings hands to mouth

• Holds objects in hand for short period of time

Sensory:

• Reaches and grasp for objects

• Follows objects with eyes

• Recognizes familiar voices, turns head toward sounds

• Enjoys a variety of motion and movements ex. swinging, rocking

Communication:

• Makes cooing sounds

• Cries to communicate needs

• Shows interest in faces

• Makes eye contact

• Smiles and makes happy sounds

• Shows excitement by kicking legs and moving arms

Feeding:

• Latches onto nipple or bottle

• Tongue moves forward and back to suck

• Drinks 2 oz. to 6 oz. of liquid per feeding, 6-8 times a day

• Sucks and swallows well during feeding, be sure to burp 

​       to avoid tummy trouble.

4-6 Months 

Motor Skills:

• Begins to sit with or without support

• Rolls from tummy to back

• Stands with support, bounces

• Brings knees up, rocks as if preparing to crawl 

• Reaches for toys while on tummy or back

• Reaches for feet while on their back

•  Is able to transfer a toy from one hand to the other

• Holds onto objects in their hands and releases when no longer interested 

Sensory:

• Uses both hands to explore toys

• Generally happy when not hungry or tired

• Brings hands and objects to mouth

• Able to calm with rocking, touching, and gentle sounds

• Is not upset by everyday sounds

• Enjoys a variety of movements

Communication:

• Reacts to sudden noises or sounds

• Listens and responds when spoken to

• Begins to use consonant sounds in babbling

• Makes different kinds of sounds to express feelings

• Notices toys that make sounds

• Uses babbling to get attention

Feeding:

• Shows interest in food

• Opens mouth as spoon approaches

• Moves pureed food from front of mouth to back

• Begins to eat cereals and pureed foods – Smooth, pureed food (single ingredient only), like carrots, sweet potato, squash, apples, pears​

 

Important Experiences and Activities:

• Tummy Time: Essential for developing motor skills, strengthening neck and shoulder muscles, and preventing flat spots on the head.

• Responsive Interaction: Talking, singing, and reading to the baby helps develop language skills and emotional bonds.

• Play: Providing age-appropriate toys that encourage reaching, grasping, and sensory exploration.