Watching a child grow and develop is a beautiful and rewarding experience. Children rely heavily on their parents during the early developmental stages, and it is important to learn what to expect and teach during these crucial formative years. The following article breaks down the early developmental stages during the first year of life.
Zero to 1 Month
In the first month of life a child is helpless and completely dependent. As he possesses no social skills, it can at times feel like the baby does nothing but eat, sleep, cry and fill diapers. During the first month, the Child Development website reports, a baby will typically sleep for 20 hours per day. It is important to support the child's body weight as his head will roll backward if it is unsupported. At this age a child should respond to familiar sounds and make basic vision distinctions.
1 to 3 Months
At this stage of early development the baby begins to explore orally and visually. Sounds are primarily coos, grunts and cries. Basic motor ability begins to develop at this stage with the child able to support and lift her head while lying down, and to control her eye muscles. The baby begins to grab and shake toys at this stage and can support her body with her arms while lying on her stomach.
3 to 6 Months
At this stage of early development a child begins to appreciate physical contact and enjoys being cuddled. The child becomes more visually aware, recognizes his mother and is able to distinguish between familiar persons and strangers. Verbal exploration continues, and a child can make most vowels and about half of the consonant sounds. The child begins to deliberately grab objects and develops control of his head and arm movements. The child also begins to expect routine behavior such as bathing, dressing and feeding three to five times per day.
6 to 9 Months
She becomes self sustainable in terms of physical movement. She also develops control of her trunk and hands, has the ability to sit without physical support and is able to crawl about. At this stage a child develops a specific emotional attachment to her mother and begins to protest separation from her. Oral sounds become more structured, but recognizable words may not yet be heard.
9 to 12 Months
He begins to pick up sounds clearly and recognize his own name. He also orally begins to speak audible words and becomes more social. The child is able to stand for periods and move. Although walking may be unbalanced and for short distances, he can walk longer when supporting himself on furniture. He is also able to recognize and respond to commands and imitate sounds.
