Educational Content15 min read

Understanding Child Development Milestones

A comprehensive guide to developmental milestones from infancy through preschool years, helping parents understand what to expect.

Understanding Child Development Milestones

Understanding Your Child's Development

Every child develops at their own pace, but understanding general milestones helps parents support their child's growth and identify any areas that may need attention.

Milestones by Age

0-6 Months

Physical:
  • Lifts head during tummy time
  • Rolls over (4-6 months)
  • Reaches for objects

Cognitive:

  • Follows moving objects with eyes
  • Recognizes familiar faces
  • Responds to sounds

Social-Emotional:

  • Smiles socially
  • Enjoys playing with people
  • Shows different emotions

6-12 Months

Physical:
  • Sits without support
  • Crawls
  • Pulls to stand
  • May take first steps

Cognitive:

  • Understands "no"
  • Looks for hidden objects
  • Explores objects in different ways

Language:

  • Babbles with expression
  • Says "mama" and "dada"
  • Responds to simple requests

1-2 Years

Physical:
  • Walks independently
  • Climbs stairs with help
  • Begins running

Cognitive:

  • Sorts shapes and colors
  • Follows simple instructions
  • Points to named objects

Language:

  • Says several single words
  • Points to show wants
  • Follows simple directions

2-3 Years

Physical:
  • Runs easily
  • Climbs well
  • Kicks a ball

Cognitive:

  • Completes simple puzzles
  • Understands "two"
  • Sorts by shape and color

Language:

  • Uses 2-4 word sentences
  • Follows 2-step instructions
  • Names familiar objects

3-5 Years

Physical:
  • Hops and stands on one foot
  • Catches bounced ball
  • Uses scissors

Cognitive:

  • Counts to 10
  • Draws a person with details
  • Understands time concepts

Social:

  • Plays cooperatively
  • Shows empathy
  • Follows rules in games

When to Seek Support

While every child develops differently, consult your pediatrician if you notice significant delays in multiple areas.

How Gentle Bees Supports Development

Our curriculum is designed around developmental milestones, with activities tailored to each child's stage and individual needs.

Topics

child development milestonesbaby milestonestoddler developmentpreschool developmentdevelopmental stages

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