Baby Milestones

Premature Baby Development

Parents of preemies understand that their baby's development is different from that of a full-term baby. A premature baby's age is typically calculated by her due date, not the actual date of birth. So, for instance, a six-month old baby that was born two months prematurely will actually be considered a four-month old.

By the time a premature baby has reached the age of three, however, she will most likely have caught up with her peers. Until then, your child's pediatrician will monitor and document the baby milestones that your child reaches.

Baby Brain Development

Your baby develops in a myriad of ways, and baby brain development is very important. While you might believe that your newborn really appears to just sleep and eat most of the day, there is an amazing amount of growth occurring within her brain.

How can you help her brain development? You are actually helping your baby every time you interact with her and respond to her needs. The daily stimulants that your baby receives, either from her environment or directly from you, will play a huge part in the development of her brain. Each time you read, sing, hug, cuddle, and talk to your baby, you are helping to stimulate her brain!

Baby Talk

Everyone loves hearing that all important baby milestone—baby's first words. Did you know, however, that your baby actually begins to talk during the first month after she is born? While of course, her speech isn't actually made of real words, she is attempting to communicate by making sounds. In fact, she is taking the stimuli that are around her and emulating them to the best of her ability.

You can help develop your baby's language skills by looking into her eyes and talking to her. It's also a great idea to spend time singing and reading to her on a daily basis from infancy and throughout her childhood.

Baby Milestones

As you watch the baby milestones that your child reaches and surpasses, you may not know exactly what to look for. Obviously, all children do not develop on an exact schedule, but there are some general milestones and developmental stages you can watch for.

If you feel that there is any reason for doubt or concern, don't hesitate to discuss these issues with your pediatrician. If you still aren't satisfied, seek a second and even third opinion. It is your right and responsibility as a parent to advocate for your child!

Your child should reach or be close to reaching the following baby milestones:

• Two months: Smiles abstractly and not necessarily at someone directly.
• Three months: Able to raise head and chest when on her tummy. Smiles directly at you and others. Can grasp small objects that are placed in her hand.
• Four months: Attempts to imitate sounds, babbles, and laughs out loud.
• Six months: Able to roll from tummy to back and back to tummy. Able to hold objects and move them from one hand to another.
• Seven months: Recognizes her name.
• Eight to nine months: Can sit without support. May crawl or creep across the floor.
• Twelve months: Can pull up and stand. May walk with or without support. May say at least one word.
• Eighteen months: Can walk without help. Has a vocabulary of 10 to 20 words. Can hold a cup.
• Two years: Can follow simple directions. Can form short sentences. May engage in make-believe play.

More Resources

For more information regarding baby milestones, check out the following Web sites:

• Genius Babies
• March of Dimes
• Bright Beginnings
• Parents