Baby Milestones: The First Year

Your baby’s first year is a time of enormous growth, but it doesn’t need to feel like a checklist.

Every child develops at their own pace, and milestones are just gentle markers—not deadlines. Whether your little one hits these early or takes their time, what matters most is feeling supported, connected, and celebrated.  Here are five lovely milestones that often unfold in the first year:

Smiles & Eye Contact

Around 6–8 weeks, your baby may begin smiling responsively—especially when they see your face or hear your voice. These first social smiles are more than adorable; they’re a sign that your baby is starting to connect emotionally with the world.

Rolling Over (Around 4–6 Months)

Thanks to all that tummy time, many babies start rolling from tummy to back—or back to tummy—around this time. It’s an early sign of growing strength, coordination, and independence.

Sitting Up (Around 6–8 Months)

Your baby may begin sitting with support and eventually sit independently. This opens up a whole new view of the world and helps them develop balance and upper body strength.

Babbling (Around 6–9 Months)

Babbling is a beautiful bridge to language. You’ll start to hear consonants, repeated sounds, and expressive nonsense. This stage is all about experimenting with their voice and learning to communicate.

Standing & Cruising (Around 9–12 Months)

Towards the end of the year, many babies pull themselves up to stand and begin cruising along furniture. It’s wobbly, determined, and often very entertaining—every step is a triumph!

It’s worth repeating: every baby moves at their own pace. These milestones aren’t rules, just guideposts. Whether they arrive a little early, a little late, or skip one entirely, it’s all part of your unique journey together.

Tiny Humans, Big Facts – Want Some More?

Looking for gentle guidance and little-known tips to help you navigate pregnancy and the early days with your newborn? Tiny Humans, Big Facts is a growing collection of bitesize blog posts, packed with insight from the studio—covering everything from pregnancy pointers to baby-soothing techniques and behind-the-scenes secrets. Whether you’re expecting, just starting out, or simply curious, there’s always something helpful to discover.