Pick your child's age for the CDC checklist of skills most children have by then, grouped by social, language, thinking and movement, with a tick-off checklist you can bring to checkups.
How to read milestone lists
The CDC updated its checklists in 2022 so that each milestone is something at least 75% of children can do by that age (previously it was 50%). That means a missed milestone is a clear, useful signal to talk to your pediatrician, rather than something to wait out.
Children often surge in one area while pausing in another: a fast walker may talk later, and vice versa. Look at the overall picture across the four areas.
Doesn’t make eye contact or smile back by 6 months
You have a feeling something isn’t right. Trust it and ask.
General guidance based on AAP, NHS and CDC advice, not a diagnosis. If your gut says something is wrong, call your pediatrician or nurse line. You never need permission to seek care.
Questions parents ask
What are developmental milestones?
Skills most children can do by a certain age, grouped into social-emotional, language, thinking and movement. The CDC’s checklists list what 75% or more of children do by each age, so a missed item is a reason to talk to your pediatrician, not a diagnosis.
What if my baby misses a milestone?
Children develop at their own pace. If your child hasn’t reached one or more milestones by the listed age, mention it at your next checkup or call sooner if you’re worried. Early support services are free in the US (Early Intervention for under 3s) and help most when started early.
Should I adjust milestones for a premature baby?
Yes. For babies born early, use their corrected age (age from their due date) until about age 2.
When are toddler development milestones checked?
The AAP recommends developmental screening at the 9, 18 and 30-month well-child visits, and autism screening at 18 and 24 months.