This archive report was first published on 29 June 2020.
Child care: First year milestones ¶
As a parent, there's nothing quite like the first year of your child's life. It's a time of rapid growth and development, and it's exciting to see your little one reach new milestones every month.
According to experts, babies typically start to develop their emotional response to their surroundings around 6-8 months. This means they'll start to smile, laugh, and even cry in response to different stimuli. For example, if you leave the room, they might cry until you return.
As they grow stronger, their neck and back muscles will become more developed, allowing them to sit up without falling over. With time and practice, they'll be able to sit up on their own without any support.
Another significant milestone is the development of their coordination skills. Around 6-9 months, babies will start to grasp objects with their hands, and by 9-12 months, they'll be able to crawl and even stand with support.
Teething is also a significant milestone in a baby's first year. Around 6-12 months, babies will start to grow their first teeth, and they might fuss and cry due to the discomfort. Teething toys can help ease the pain and provide relief.
As they grow and develop, babies will also start to sleep through the night, or for most of the night. This is a significant milestone for parents, as it means they can finally get a good night's sleep.
Finally, around 9-12 months, babies will start to say their first words, such as 'mama' or 'dada.' They'll also start to recognize their names and respond to them.
It's worth noting that every baby develops at their own pace, and some might reach certain milestones earlier or later than others. However, with patience, love, and support, your baby will reach all the milestones they need to in their first year.
