Being a witness to your child's growth and development is both rewarding and exciting!
It can be confusing to understand and keep up with all the different developmental milestones, so if you need a hand to monitor your child's progress, see a pediatrician like Dr. Alexandra Kostur at Jacksonville Kids Pediatrics, Jacksonville, FL.
The Importance of Developmental Milestones
Developmental milestones are behaviors or skills that most children achieve by a certain age. They serve as markers of normal development and help both you and doctors monitor your child's progress.
It's important to remember that while every child develops at their own pace, deviations from expected milestones might indicate potential developmental delays or concerns.
Key Developmental Milestones
Physical Development
By around 6 months, most babies can roll over, sit up with support, and eventually crawl. By 12 months, they typically start to walk independently.
Babies will also gradually develop the ability to grasp objects, pick up small items using their thumb and forefinger, and eventually feed themselves with fingers and utensils.
Cognitive Development
By around 6 months, you might notice your baby cooing and babbling and by 12 months, they should start to say their first words. During their toddler years, their vocabulary will expand rapidly.
Toddlers become increasingly curious and experimental, learning to solve simple problems and explore cause-and-effect relationships.
Social and Emotional Development
By around 6–8 months, babies form strong bonds with their primary caregivers. They might show distress when separated from familiar faces and seek comfort from trusted individuals.
Toddlers start to understand and respond to the emotions of others, demonstrate basic empathy, and engage in simple social interactions like playing alongside other children.
Adaptive Skills
As toddlers gain independence, they learn to feed themselves, drink from a cup, dress with minimal assistance, and use the bathroom (potty training typically occurs between 2 and 3 years).
For more information on developmental milestones, visit Dr. Kostur at Jacksonville Kids Pediatrics, Jacksonville, FL.
Encouraging Development Through Play
Play is a vital aspect of a child's development, providing opportunities for exploration, learning, and social interaction. As a parent, you can support your child's development by providing age-appropriate toys and activities that encourage physical, cognitive, and social engagement, such as stacking blocks, puzzles, pretend play, and exploring outside.
Book Your Appointment
It's totally natural if you find yourself comparing your child's development to that of others! If you do have concerns about your child's development, don't hesitate to discuss them with your pediatrician.
To make an appointment in Jacksonville, FL, with our pediatrician, Dr. Kostur, call Jacksonville Kids Pediatrics at 904-446-9991.