Your baby’s growth and development – first 12 months

Your baby grows and develops from the moment they are born. At 1 month, cuddling, sleeping and feeding are all that matter to your baby.

At 2 months, your baby is growing fast and becoming more alert. They also make more sounds and get better at moving their bodies.

By 3 months, your baby forms a strong attachment to you. They respond with lots of smiles, and you can enjoy your baby as they develop.

From 4 months, your baby should have more control over what they do. They will be starting to move around and interact with you more.

At 5 months, your baby is growing and developing quickly. They may soon sit on their own and prepare for solid foods and language skills.

At 6 months, your baby will be moving more, start to respond to particular words, and have a better sense of the world around them.

At 7 months, your baby may be sitting up on their own and eating solid foods. Learn more about your baby's development at 7 months.

At 8 months old, your baby may be sitting and moving around more. They may be eating solid foods and sleeping more at night than during the day.

At 9 months, your baby will be moving around and communicating more and learning to use their hands. They will prefer being with familiar people.

At 10 months old, your baby is active and can sit well. Learn more about your baby’s growth, sleep, feeding and development milestones.

At 11 months, your baby is almost a toddler. Find out about what your baby will be doing now and how you can support their development.

At 12 months, your baby is very active and enjoys exploring their world. They may already, or soon, take their first steps and join family meals.

Call us and speak to a Maternal Child Health Nurse for personal advice and guidance.