Loving parents care about their baby’s development. They learn the developmental milestones expected at each age. They keep regular medical appointments to ensure their child is on track.

When around other babies, moms and dads may compare their little one’s skills with those of others and ask themselves questions, such as, “Why isn’t my girl holding her head up yet?” or “He’s already sitting up, and my child isn’t. Is something wrong?”

While babies develop on their timelines, most meet the developmental milestones around the same age (within a month or two). If the birth was premature, the pregnancy complicated, or the birth difficult, your child may experience some delays.

While your child’s doctor should track your baby’s development, parents can also be aware of developmental red flags and report them to the doctor. When a delay is present, intervening when the child is young is the best way to help a child catch up quickly.

Here are some developmental red flags between birth and one year of age. If your baby has any, report them to your pediatrician.
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Birth to 3 monthsFeeding difficulties, especially if the baby is irritablePrefers to turn their head to one side more than the otherFlattening of the back or side of the headPrefers specific postures (back arched, head tilted, clenched fists, etc.)Decreased movement of one side of the body compared to the otherExcessive arching of the back or the baby is stiff or floppyDifficult birth history (trauma, complications at birth, etc.)4 – 6 monthsConsistent arching of the back in any positionKeeping one or both hands clenched most of the timeDifficulty rolling onto the side and/or staying on the sideConsistently falling forward or extending backward when sitting (at 6 months)7 – 9 monthsScooting on the back, bunny hopping on the legs, or butt scooching instead of crawlingUnable to get the hands together at the midline (center of the chest)Unable to sit without supportTrouble bearing weight on hands or armsLimited desire to move, explore, or climbUses one side of the body more than the otherSitting with legs spread wide or W-sitting10 – 12 monthsLack of desire to explore the environmentStrong preference to use one side of the body more than the otherCruising along furniture in only one directionConsistently standing, cruising, or walking on tiptoesWaiting for others to do everything for themStruggling to grasp and release objectsAt Higher Risk for Developmental DelaysLow birth weightAlcohol and substance abuse during pregnancySudden or noticeable regression in abilities

Developmental delays are common and do not mean a child will not catch up. However, experts agree that early intervention services offer the best and fastest way for a kid to master those skills and get back on track.

If you have concerns or questions, talk to your child’s doctor.

Want to know more about your baby’s development? Join my Baby Support Group on Facebook.

(Photo: Canva)