Take a look at some important infant milestones by month and learn about some great developmentally appropriate activities for infants!
A new baby brings joy and so much love. Parents can’t wait to learn everything about their precious little human!
From the ages of 0 -12 months, infant physical development happens rapidly and things can change from day to day! It may be one of the most profound times in your life, when time will seemingly fly by — especially from 0-3 months.
During this phase of rapid physical development of infants, parents often ask questions like:
What are 1 month baby milestones?
What are the milestones for a 2 month old?
What should my 3 month old be doing?
What are the best age appropriate activities for infants and infant play ideas?
Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the infant developmental milestones that you can expect during this fast little timeline. Looking at these important baby milestones by month can help parents and caregivers prepare for what to expect as their child begins to grow and learn.
Wondering about your infant’s development? Learn more about the most common developmental red flags for infants.
0 to 1 month milestones
During their first few weeks, a baby’s sensory systems are adjusting to the new world around them. The lights are so bright, the sounds are so loud!
At this stage, an infant’s gross motor skills are limited to gaining some strength in their tiny necks to hold up their very heavy head.
You may notice that your baby will wrap their fingers around yours if you place it in the palm of their hand. Those aren’t newly developed fine motor skills at this point, but, instead, a sign of primitive reflexes at work!
Some movements that you may notice in your baby:
-Briefly looking at a colorful object
-Starting to move their arms symmetrically
-Beginning to track a large moving object with their eyes
-Lifting their head briefly during tummy time
-Turning their head to the side when lying on their back
Infant Development Activities for 0-1 Month Olds
-Talk softly to your baby. Tell them all about how much you love them and how grateful you are that they are yours!
-Swaddle them to help them organize their sensory systems and to feel safe and secure.
-Support their tiny heads as you carry them and feed them. Protect those newly developing neck muscles. They need your help now but won’t for very long!
-One of the most important gross motor activities for infants is tummy time! Even if it is just on your chest or lap where your baby feels the safest and most comfortable!
The Best Toys and Tools for Supporting 1 Month Infant Milestones
If you’re looking for fun things to do with infants, sometimes having a few toys and tools handy can inspire some creativity! Below, find our recommendations for toys that would be perfect for a newborn to 1 month old to support their development.
Visual Contrast Toy
This visual contrast toy for infants is perfect because it is made out of soft material and includes a visually stimulating mirror, crinkle paper, and contrasting images. If you’re looking for simple activities to do with a 1 month old, this toy is perfect!
Tummy Time on the Go
This mat is perfect for on-the-go diaper changes, but it can also double as a play mat so you can squeeze in tummy time play even when you’re out and about!
Sleep Swaddles
The deep pressure from a sleep swaddle like these can be extremely soothing and comforting to newborns. This can lead to better sleep for baby (and parents!)
More Information About Infant Development
Common Developmental Red Flags for Infants
Learn about some common developmental red flags for infants that we use to identify developmental delays and other problems.
Developmental Milestones for Children
Find all of our best resources related to developmental milestones for children ages 0 to 5!
Physical Activities for Babies Webinar
In this 1-hour webinar, participants will learn basic motor milestones and will come away with a toolbox full of creative, unique activity ideas to promote the development of each milestone.
Baby Milestones: 0 to 12 Months
Learn more about baby milestones – how babies develop and move from 0 to 12 months.
1-2 Month Developmental Milestones
Find then next set of milestones for infants who are 1 to 2 months old.
