Milestones are the skills most children pick up around a similar age, such as smiling, babbling, walking, sharing and playing with others. They give parents a helpful guide to how a child is learning, moving and communicating.
Children develop at their own pace, so some variation in timing is normal. Your child’s doctor checks development at regular well-child visits, and the CDC offers free milestone checklists for parents.
- Play, read and talk with your child every day.
- Keep a note of new skills and any questions.
- Bring your notes to every checkup.
Talk to your child’s doctor if you are concerned, or if your child seems to have lost a skill they once had. You do not need to wait for the next scheduled visit.
