The first year of your baby's life!

Congratulations! You gave birth to your baby. Now what? It is likely that you are wondering what to expect during those first months of your baby’s life. What milestones does your baby need to reach next? Let’s dive in together and see what you can expect during your baby’s first year of life.

During your baby’s first month, it may seem like he is only eating, sleeping, and pooping in repeat. But, the reality is that a lot is going on in that little human's brain. Milestones to keep an eye on are turning toward familiar voices like yours and shutting eyes at bright lights.

In the second month of his life, your baby is likely to be holding their head up while doing tummy time. He is now acting more like a baby, cooing and trying to follow movements with his eyes. In his third month, you’ll notice your baby becoming more and more independent with each passing day. During this month, you can expect him to smile at the sound of your voice. Grasping toys, putting their hand in their mouth with more precision. In his fourth month, your baby is perfecting the milestones he has achieved so far. For example, he may now hold a rattle and shake it simultaneously or make more vowel sounds like ooh and ah.

Your baby is continuing to grow up and explore. During the fifth month, as their coordination increases, you may see your baby has learned how to roll. He’ll also be able to move objects from one hand to the other and begin by showing interest in the food you’re eating. Your baby is growing up and fast! He is now able to sit without any support and the AAP suggests 6 months is a good time to start your baby on solids.

Your baby continues to build on what they’ve already learned during his seventh month. He has now learned to sit up without support for longer periods and can recognize emotions by your tone. When your baby turns 8 months old, you might notice that your little one can now roll over, sit up, and move objects from hand to hand or hand to mouth. You might also begin to see your baby: pulling up to a standing position and perhaps drooling.

Your baby is on the move during his ninth month, they may be crawling or even pulling up to a standing position. And during the tenth month of his life, you’ll see them banging objects together and exploring the noises. They will also be moving from pulling to standing or crawling or walking while holding on to objects around a room.

During the eleventh month, your baby will continue exploring languages and sounds, giving you more mamas and dadas.

During their twelfth month, your baby will likely be cruising or even taking a step or two. He’ll continue exploring objects by dropping them and using them correctly (for example using a spoon to eat).