While there are normal ranges at which children should be expected to develop, parents should remember that each child goes through stages at varying times within an average period, according to doctors at the Child Development Institute. Parents and caregivers can use charts and averages to prepare for each stage of development while keeping in mind that because some children develop faster and others slower, there usually is no need for concern. Parents worried about developmental delays should bring up the topic with a pediatrician.
Social Development
During the first month, infants are completely helpless and asocial. They do not recognize anyone outside themselves, including their mother's breast. During the second and third month, babies begin to recognize faces and are soothed when they are held and rocked. By 6 months, children develop a definite recognition of familiar people and smile when they see someone they know. They also have developed certain expectations of other people, ranging from feeding to changing and holding. Babies balk at being separated from their mothers by 9 months old and they begin to enjoy games such as peek-a-boo. Communication grows within the first year, so that babies recognize various words such as "no" and their own names. By 12 months, they can wave good-bye and can take and give objects from others.
Physical Development
During the first 30 days, infants sleep about 20 hours a day and eat five to eight times per day. Most of their senses are working, and they can feel pain. Color recognition happens by 3 months, at which age babies can follow things with their eyes and heads. Their necks are usually strong enough to lift their heads when lying on their stomachs. By 6 months, children begin grasping objects with their hands. Their arms and legs are consciously moved, and they usually should be able to roll over unassisted. By 9 months, most babies can sit up on their own and begin crawling. Sleep is reduced to about 12 hours a night by 1 year, and feeding can be limited to three meals and two snacks a day. By one year, babies can use their fingers and thumbs and should be able to stand up while holding onto something.
Emotional Development
For the first three months as their bodies become attuned to their surroundings, babies mostly experience tension and distress. It isn't until 3 to 6 months that a child begins to find enjoyment in cuddling and rocking. Babies can become scared or startled by loud noises or from too much stimulation during this period. A definite attachment is formed with mom by 9 months, and anxiety is common when the child is separated from her. Since babies begin recognizing familiar faces, they also fear and are suspicious of strangers by 12 months and take a while to develop trust and feelings of safety with new people. They can show affection and often exhibit a sense of curiosity about every new thing in their path within the first year.
