Baby Developmental Milestones: What to Expect in the First Year
The first year of a baby’s life is an extraordinary time filled with remarkable growth and development. As parents, witnessing your little one reaching new milestones is both exciting and heartwarming. Understanding the typical developmental stages that occur in the first year can help you support your baby’s progress and provide the right environment for their growth. Explore the significant developmental milestones that babies typically achieve in their first year of life with Woman’s Health and Menopause Center.
- Cognitive Development:
Around three to six months, babies may begin to reach for and grasp objects, exploring them with their hands and mouths. Around six to nine months, babies demonstrate object permanence, understanding that objects continue to exist even when they are out of sight.
- Social and Emotional Development:
In the first few months, babies begin to smile and coo in response to interactions with parents and caregivers. They enjoy eye contact and may even mimic facial expressions. Around six to nine months, babies may experience separation anxiety, becoming upset when separated from their primary caregivers. However, they also start to display stranger anxiety, becoming cautious around unfamiliar people. By their first birthday, babies can express their emotions through gestures, sounds, and facial expressions, providing cues to their needs and feelings.
- Language Development:
Around six months, they may start using repetitive consonant-vowel sounds like “bababa” or “mamama.” By nine to twelve months, babies often say their first words, such as “mama” or “dada,” and begin to understand simple words and commands.
As You Parent:
Remember, if you have any concerns about your baby’s development, don’t hesitate to consult with our friendly OB/GYN Specialists or sign up for Birthing Classes. Celebrate every milestone, no matter how small, and cherish the precious moments as your baby blossoms into a happy, healthy, and curious little individual. Book an appointment with us or call 248-932-9223. We are always excited to help wonderful mothers with their needs.
