Tracking Physical Milestones of Babies (0-12 Months)

Physical milestones are key developmental stages that most children reach as they grow, including motor skills, coordination, and physical abilities like crawling, walking, running, and jumping.

0-3 Months

Q1: What physical milestones should I expect in the first 3 months?
A: During the first 3 months, most babies:

Lift their head slightly when placed on their tummy
Move their arms and legs energetically
Bring hands to mouth
Begin to grasp objects with their hands

Q2: My baby isn’t lifting their head at 3 months. Is this a delay?
A: Head control develops at different rates. Encourage tummy time to strengthen neck muscles. If you’re concerned, check with your pediatrician.

4-6 Months

Q3: What physical abilities develop between 4-6 months?
A: Between 4-6 months, babies typically:

Roll over from tummy to back and sometimes from back to tummy
Push up on their arms while lying on their stomach
Sit with support or briefly unassisted
Reach for and grab objects

Q4: Is it normal if my 6-month-old isn’t sitting up on their own?
A: Some babies may not sit unassisted until around 7-8 months. As long as your baby is making progress, such as sitting with support, it’s usually fine.

7-9 Months

Q5: What are common milestones for babies aged 7-9 months?
A: Babies between 7-9 months usually:

Sit without support for longer periods
Begin to crawl or scoot
Pull themselves to a standing position
Use their hands to transfer objects from one hand to another

Q6: My baby is 9 months and not crawling. Should I be concerned?
A: Not all babies crawl; some go straight to walking. As long as your baby is moving in other ways (like scooting or rolling), it’s generally okay.

10-12 Months

Q7: What physical milestones should I expect at 10-12 months?
A: By 10-12 months, most babies:

Stand with support and may begin to stand alone
Walk holding onto furniture (cruising)
May take their first independent steps
Pick up small objects using thumb and forefinger (pincer grasp)

Q8: My 12-month-old isn’t walking yet. Is this a delay?
A: Many babies walk between 12-15 months. If your baby is cruising and standing, they are progressing. If not walking by 18 months, consult your pediatrician.

General Questions

Q9: How can I support my baby’s physical development?
A: Encourage tummy time, offer toys they can grasp, and create safe spaces for them to explore. Babies benefit from opportunities to move and practice new skills.

Q10: When should I worry about delayed physical milestones?
A: If your baby:

Isn’t making progress in motor skills (e.g., can’t hold their head up by 4 months)
Seems stiff or floppy
Loses previously acquired skills
Contact your pediatrician for advice.

Remember, every baby develops at their own pace, and milestones are just guidelines. For concerns, always consult a healthcare professional.