03 Apr Is My Baby on Track? What to Know About Developmental Milestones
2 min. readWatching your baby grow is one of the most exciting parts of parenting. From their first smile to their first steps, every new skill feels like a big win. But it’s also expected to wonder, “Is my baby on track?” or “Should they be doing this by now?”
Every baby develops at their own pace, but there are some general milestones to help guide you along the way. Here’s what you need to know about what’s typical—and when to check in with your pediatrician.
What Are Developmental Milestones?
Developmental milestones are the physical, emotional, social, and communication skills most babies reach by a certain age. These include things like:
- Rolling over
- Sitting up
- Babbling
- Crawling
- Standing and walking
Milestones are grouped by age, such as 0–3 months, 4–6 months, 7–9 months, and so on.
Why Milestones Matter
Milestones help you and your pediatrician keep track of how your baby is growing and learning. They’re not about comparing your baby to others—they’re a way to spot signs that your baby might need a little extra support.
Examples by Age Group
- By 3 Months: Your baby may smile at people, turn their head toward sounds, and lift their head during tummy time.
- By 6 Months: Many babies roll over, laugh, reach for toys, and start to sit with support.
- By 9 Months: Some begin to crawl, play peek-a-boo, and use their fingers to pick up small things.
- By 12 Months: Babies may pull up to stand, say simple words like “mama,” and respond to their name.
Remember: these are general time frames. Some babies do things earlier or later—and that can be totally normal.
When to Reach Out
Talk to your pediatrician if your baby:
- Doesn’t smile by 3 months
- Isn’t rolling over by 6 months
- Doesn’t respond to sounds or people
- Has trouble sitting up or controlling their head
- Shows little interest in toys or faces
The earlier you speak up, the sooner we can support your baby’s development.
Every Baby Grows Differently
Try not to stress if your baby isn’t doing everything “on time.” Babies develop at their own pace. What matters most is steady progress over time.
If you ever have questions or concerns, we’re here to help. Schedule a visit with our pediatric team to talk through your child’s development and get peace of mind from people who care.