When to Worry About Developmental Milestones

Every baby develops at their own pace, but as a parent, it’s natural to compare milestones and wonder if your baby is on track.

When should my baby roll over?

Why isn’t my toddler talking yet?

Should I be worried if my baby isn’t crawling?

While some variation in development is normal, delays in key milestones can sometimes indicate underlying concerns. This guide breaks down when to relax and when to seek professional advice regarding developmental milestones.

Understanding Developmental Milestones

Developmental milestones refer to physical, cognitive, social, and communication skills that babies and toddlers typically reach at certain ages.

Four Key Areas of Development:

✔ Motor Skills – Rolling over, sitting up, crawling, walking.

✔ Speech & Language – Babbling, first words, two-word phrases.

✔ Social & Emotional – Smiling, responding to their name, showing affection.

✔ Cognitive Skills – Recognising objects, problem-solving, exploring cause-and-effect.

Milestones help track progress, but it’s important to remember that every child develops at their own pace. Some babies hit milestones early, while others take longer—both are normal.

When to Relax: "Normal" Variations in Baby Development

1. Rolling Over

✅ Most babies roll over between 4-6 months.❗ Some babies skip rolling altogether and go straight to sitting—this is completely normal.

2. Crawling

✅ Most babies start crawling between 6-10 months.❗ Some babies never crawl and go straight to walking—this is okay too!

3. Walking

✅ Most babies take their first steps between 9-15 months.❗ As long as your baby is making progress in standing and pulling up, late walking isn’t a concern before 18 months.

4. Talking

✅ Most babies say their first word between 10-14 months.❗ Some toddlers focus more on movement and talk later—but should start saying at least a few words by 18 months.

💡 If your baby is making progress in other areas, there’s usually no need to worry about a slightly delayed milestone.

When to Seek Professional Advice

While variations are normal, some signs indicate a need for further evaluation.

Motor Skills Concerns

By 6 months: Not holding head up or pushing up on arms.

By 9 months: No signs of sitting, rolling, or reaching for toys.

By 12 months: Not pulling up to stand or attempting to move.

By 18 months: Not walking independently.

Speech & Language Concerns

By 6 months: No babbling or response to sounds.

By 9 months: Doesn’t respond to their name.

By 12 months: No attempt to say words like "mama" or "dada"

By 18 months: No spoken words or doesn’t point to objects when named

By 2 years: Less than 50 words or no two-word phrases.

Social & Emotional Concerns

❌ No eye contact or smiles by 3 months.

❌ Not showing interest in people or toys by 6 months.

❌ Not waving, clapping, or pointing by 12 months.

💡 If your baby is missing multiple milestones in different areas, speak to a paediatrician or child development specialist. Early intervention can make a big difference.

What Causes Developmental Delays?

Most delays aren’t serious, but some factors can impact development:

Premature birth – Preemies often reach milestones a few months later than full-term babies.

Hearing or vision issues – Undiagnosed hearing loss can delay speech and social skills.

Lack of tummy time – Not enough floor play can slow motor skill development.

Neurodevelopmental conditions – Autism, speech disorders, or coordination challenges may be factors.

If there are concerns, early intervention—like physical therapy or speech support—can help babies catch up quickly.

How to Support Your Baby’s Development

If your baby is developing more slowly than expected, there are simple ways to encourage progress at home.

✔ Motor Skills: Give plenty of tummy time and use toys to encourage reaching and movement.

✔ Speech & Language: Talk, sing, and read to your baby every day—even if they aren’t talking back yet.

✔ Social Skills: Respond to your baby’s smiles, gestures, and babbles to encourage interaction.

✔ Fine Motor Skills: Let your baby explore objects with their hands—grasping, stacking, and feeling different textures help strengthen coordination.

Every Baby Develops Differently

Some babies walk early but talk late, while others say words before they take steps—development isn’t linear.

If your baby is progressing in other areas, a small delay isn’t a cause for concern.If milestones are significantly behind or skills seem to regress, speak to a professional. Early intervention can help babies catch up, but most delays resolve on their own.

For expert-backed advice, developmental checklists, and a supportive community of mums, join Carol App today.

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