the milestones of my baby

Babies grow in such unique ways: The baby who sits up weeks before her peers might be one of the last to learn how to crawl. Or the 18-month-old who's still communicating with grunts and gestures suddenly bursts forth with prepositional phrases at 2 years. That's why we created this series of charts.

Since babies aren't identical — thank goodness! — the charts allow for variations in stages of development. Use them to gain insight into what you're observing in your baby today and to preview what you can look forward to in the months ahead.

One thing you shouldn't use the charts for, however, is grist for the worry mill. Each chart is meant as a guide, not as a source of concern.

1-6 months