Developmental Milestones: Red Flags (2024)

Developmental Milestones by 1 to 4 Months

Babies change and grow a lot during the newborn period. During their first three months, they typically gain about an ounce of weight each day. They are also developing new skills. But if you notice the following in your newborn, it could be a sign of an early delay.

• Doesn't respond to loud noises
• Doesn't seem to notice their own hands (by 2 months)
• Doesn't follow moving objects with eyes (by 3 months)
  
• Doesn't grasp objects (by 3 months)
• Doesn't smile at people (by 3 months)
• Can't support head (by 3 months)
• Doesn't babble or try to imitate sounds (by 4 months)
• Doesn't bring objects to their mouth (by 4 months)
• Doesn't push down with legs when feet are on a firm surface (by 4 months)

Developmental Milestones by 7 Months

As your baby continues to grow, so will their skills. Many 5-, 6-, and 7-month-olds roll, smile, and laugh. They grab toys frequently, put objects in their mouth, babble, and squeal. While your baby may not have hit all of these milestones, these characteristics are worth mentioning to their doctor.

• Seems very stiff, with tight muscles
• Seems very floppy, like a rag doll
• Head flops back when their body is pulled to a sitting position
• Reaches with only one hand
• Refuses to cuddle
• Shows no affection for the person who cares for him
• Persistent tearing, eye drainage, or sensitivity to light
• Difficulty getting objects to their mouth
• Doesn't roll over in either direction (by 5 months)
• Can't sit with help (by 6 months)
• Doesn't laugh or make squealing sounds (by 6 months)

Developmental Milestones by 1 Year

By your child's first birthday, they've probably changed a lot—physically, mentally, socially, and emotionally. But if you have any concerns, or if your child is exhibiting any of the following behaviors, you may want to speak to their pediatrician.

• Doesn't crawl or scoot, or drags one side of their body while crawling
• Can't stand when supported
• Doesn't search for objects that they see being hidden
• Doesn't say mama or dada—or any other single words
• Doesn't use gestures, such as shaking their head "no"
• Doesn't point to objects or pictures
• Can't walk (by 18 months)
• Doesn't walk heel-toe within a few months of walking

Developmental Milestones by 2 Years

Ah, toddlerhood. There's nothing quite like it. Most children learn to walk and talk between 1 to 2 years. But if your child is struggling physically, socially, or emotionally, you may want to speak to an early intervention expert. These are some signs of a delay in a 2-year-old.

• Doesn't speak at least 15 words
• Doesn't use two-word sentences
• Doesn't imitate actions or words
• Doesn't follow simple instructions
• Can't push a wheeled toy

Developmental Milestones by 3 Years

Can you believe your baby is 3? Thirty-six months have passed since your wee one was born. But if your soon-to-be preschooler is having difficulty with any of these things, consider seeking out support from a physical or occupational therapist.

• Frequently falls or has difficulty with stairs
• Drools persistently or speaks unclearly
• Can't build a tower of more than four blocks
• Has trouble manipulating small objects
• Can't copy a circle
• Can't communicate in short phrases
• Doesn't engage in pretend play
• Doesn't understand simple instructions
• Shows no interest in other children
• Makes poor eye contact
• Has little interest in toys

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