This chart will guide you through the growth and development of an average child during the critical ages from birth to three years. The milestones listed below are typical for young children. Please remember that every child is unique -- growing and
developing at different rates. Most of the time differences between children of the same age are nothing to worry about. But for one child in 10, the difference can be related to a developmental delay.
If you have questions or concerns about a child's growth and development, call 1-800-323-4769 (voice/TTY). We can provide you with answers and help you keep children reaching for the stars.
At age one month, most children can...
- Raise their heads slightly when lying on their stomachs
- Briefly watch objects
- Make "noise in throat" sounds
- Pull away from a cloth or blanket on their faces
At age three months, most children can...
- Lift their heads and chests when lying on their stomachs
- Show vigorous body movement
- Follow a moving person with their eyes
- Recognize a bottle or breast
- Smile when someone speaks to them
At age six months, most children can...
- Sit with minimal support
- Roll from their backs to their stomachs
- Turn to locate and identify sounds
- Transfer objects from hand to hand and from hand to mouth
- Respond to friendly speech with a smile or coo
At age 12 months, most children can...
- Pull themselves up to stand and may step with support
- Pick things up with a thumb and one finger
- Nod their heads to signal "yes"
- Give affection
- Say two or three words
At age 2, most children can...
- Hand over toys upon request
- Kick a large ball
- Turn pages in a book (two or three at a time)
- Ask for items by name
- Recognize a familiar picture and know if it is upside down
- Use two or three words together, such as "more juice"
At age 3, most children can...
- Walk up stairs while holding the railing
- Stand momentarily on one foot
- Open doors
- Unbutton large buttons
- Verbalize toilet needs
- Stack objects of different sizes
Look What I Can Do
Early Intervention For Young Children With Developmental Delays
The Sooner We Start, The Farther They'll Go.
Department of Human Services Early Intervention web site: EI Providers - EI Customers -
About EI
To order Public Awareness materials call 1-800-851-6197.
