Newborn Development Milestones: What To Expect in the First Year

The journey of parenthood begins with a myriad of emotions, from excitement to nervousness, as you welcome your newborn into the world. Among the many wonders you'll experience is witnessing the remarkable growth and development of your little one during their first year. You want to make sure that you’re prepared for the different milestones your baby will hit during their first year of life. Your pediatricians at Mundelein Pediatrics in Grayslake, IL, can explain what newborn care entails and what you can expect as your newborn grows and develops. 

Experiencing Your Child’s First Year 

When you bring your newborn home, you might be unaware of what you can expect as your child grows up. You want to be prepared for the milestones ahead so that you know when your child is dealing with delays and when additional care might be needed. This can also help your child in the long run and can help you understand how to help your child thrive. You can talk to your pediatrician in Grayslake, IL, about newborn care and what it might entail. 

In the initial weeks, development will be slow and minor. In the next few weeks, your newborn will begin to focus their gaze, recognizing faces and following objects with their eyes. Tummy time will become essential for building neck strength, a precursor to future milestones like crawling and sitting. 

As your baby approaches the three-month mark, you'll notice significant changes in their awareness and interaction. They may start to coo, babble, and smile in response to your voice and facial expressions. At this stage, they'll also begin to reach for objects, showcasing newfound motor skills and curiosity about their surroundings. 

By the half-year mark, your little explorer will be on the move. They might start rolling over or even sitting up independently. They'll enjoy exploring toys with their hands, banging objects together, and transferring items from one hand to another. Some babies may even start to crawl or scoot around, signaling the onset of a more mobile phase. 

As your baby approaches their first birthday, their independence will flourish. They'll likely be pulling themselves up to stand, cruising along furniture, or taking those first wobbly steps. Their babbling will evolve into recognizable words, and they'll understand simple commands or gestures. Feeding themselves finger foods can become a messy yet rewarding experience. 

Contact Our Pediatrician Today 

Make sure you know what to expect from your child’s first year. Contact your pediatricians at Mundelein Pediatrics in Grayslake, IL, to learn more about newborn care and what the first year may entail. Call for more information and to schedule your appointment today at (847) 548-7337.