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What Are Developmental Milestones?

Developmental milestones are skills or behaviors most children can do by a certain age. Milestones fall into groups like physical skills, learning, social skills and communication. By knowing what to expect, you can watch for when your child gains those new skills. Recognizing what to look for can also make it easier to spot delays.

Milestones by Age

While each child is unique, many children reach milestones at specific ages. From birth to grade school and beyond, they will build important skills in movement, language and communication. Knowing what to expect means parents can celebrate progress and get support if needed. Regular doctor visits will help make sure children are meeting milestones. Doctors can also connect parents to programs, like Early Childhood Intervention, to help their child if milestones aren’t met. Review the stages below to learn more.

0 to 6 Months

From birth to 6 months, babies will grow and learn new skills. These include smiling, holding their head up and making sounds. Parents can help their infants learn by talking, reading or singing to them. Babies can also play and explore with safe toys.

6 to 12 Months

From 6 months to 1 year, babies continue to grow and develop. They will start to know familiar faces, sit up and laugh. Parents can begin giving solid food around 6 months of age and can encourage learning by talking to them and repeating the sounds they make.

1 to 2 Years

Between years 1 and 2, children will be able to do more things on their own. This includes walking, saying simple phrases and following simple instructions. Parents can help them learn by limiting screen time and playing pretend games with them.

3 to 4 Years

From ages 3 to 4, children will play, speak and move more. They will start speaking in simple sentences and playing with others. Parents can encourage their child to solve problems with help. They can also support learning by reading to their child and playing counting games.

5 Years

At age 5, children are generally ready to begin school and learn with other children. They will start to follow rules, tell stories and write. Parents can support growth by letting their children do things on their own, even if it takes a long time to complete the task or if they do it wrong.

6 Years and Older

After 5, children will continue to reach milestones, though they may occur less often than in their early years. Parents should continue to take their child to the doctor and discuss any questions or concerns. They can support their child by creating family routines, reading, talking and playing with them, making simple art together, and limiting screen time.

What to Do If You Have Concerns

If you notice your child is not meeting expected milestones, it’s important to act early. Start by talking with your child’s doctor about what you are seeing. Ask your doctor about tests and screenings your child might need. If there is anything you don’t understand at first, ask your doctor to explain in more detail. Review the information they give you and follow any next steps. Early intervention can make a big difference in helping your child.


Every child’s development is unique but knowing what to expect can help you play an active role in your child’s healthy growth. Supporting your child’s development is a journey, and you’re not alone. Reaching out to local programs can provide guidance and support when you have concerns.

 

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Early Childhood Intervention

Early Childhood Intervention is a statewide program for families with children from birth to 36 months with developmental delays, disabilities or certain medical diagnoses that may affect development. Early Childhood Intervention services support families as they learn how to help their children. This includes services centered around the family that are provided where the child typically learns, lives and plays, and support for transitioning to school or other appropriate services when the child turns 3. 

To learn more, including eligibility requirements, visit Early Childhood Intervention Services.

Support for Parents and Caregivers

Families in Texas have access to a variety of programs and resources designed to support child development. These programs can help with developmental screenings and can connect you to local support.

Women, Infants and Children

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, commonly known as Texas WIC, is for pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding women as well as children until their 5th birthday. Clients receive healthy food, nutrition counseling, breastfeeding support and referrals to helpful services. Texas WIC also offers a variety of classes on topics like child feeding and developmental milestones to support caregivers as their children grow. 

To learn about milestones from birth to age 1, visit the Texas WIC First Year Milestones page. To find more information on milestones from ages 1 to 5, visit the Texas WIC Watch Me Grow page.

Early Childhood Texas

Early Childhood Texas aims to give families with young children access to services and resources. This includes information on child development, nutrition and health care. The website can provide information and support for children who don’t reach certain milestones or have special needs.

To learn more and connect with local resources, visit Early Childhood Texas.

Thriving Texas Families

The Thriving Texas Families program is a statewide support network that:  

  • Promotes healthy pregnancy and childbirth.
  • Increases access to resources that promote family and child development.  
  • Helps parents establish and implement successful parenting techniques.  

To find a program in your area, use the Thriving Texas Families Program Locator.