What are the Developmental Milestones by Age?

Developmental milestones are key skills that most children achieve by specific ages across four primary domains: social/emotional, language/communication, cognitive, and physical development. Based on CDC guidelines provided by Heart Core ABA, here is a breakdown of milestones by age group:

0–12 Months

• Social/Emotional: Smiling at people and copying facial expressions.
• Language: Making sounds, babbling by 6–9 months, and responding to their name.
• Cognitive: Exploring objects with hands and finding hidden items by 9 months.
• Physical: Holding the head steady, rolling over by 4–6 months, and pulling to stand by 9 months.

1–2 Years

• Social/Emotional: Showing independence and playing simple games like pat-a-cake.
• Language: Saying several single words (e.g., mama) by 12–18 months and following simple instructions.
• Cognitive: Sorting shapes and completing simple sentences.
• Physical: Walking alone (usually by 12–18 months) and pulling toys.

2–3 Years

• Social/Emotional: Copying adults, taking turns, and engaging in imaginative play.
• Language: Speaking in sentences and naming colors.
• Cognitive: Understanding counting and engaging in fantasy play.
• Physical: Kicking a ball, climbing, and standing on one foot.

If a child does not babble or respond to their name by 12 months, or is not walking independently by 18 months, professionals recommend seeking an evaluation to address potential developmental delays.