More Baby Milestones: The First Year

Those first few months are packed with development—but the milestones don’t stop there.

As babies approach their first birthday, they hit a whole new set of exciting stages. From the first tooth to the first steps, here are five common milestones many babies reach between 6–12 months.

Crawling

Crawling usually begins between 7 to 10 months, though not all babies do it in the same way—or at all! Some scoot, roll, or bum-shuffle instead. Whatever their style, it marks a big leap in independence and exploration. Baby-proofing begins here!

First Words

First words are typically spoken between 10 to 14 months, though babbling begins much earlier. Often, it’s “Mama” or “Dada,” but some babies surprise you with names, pets, or favourite toys. It’s a magical milestone—the first sign they’re ready to join the conversation.

First Steps

Between 9 to 15 months, most babies take their first steps. Before this comes standing with support, cruising along furniture, and eventually letting go. It’s one of the most celebrated milestones—and those wobbly walks are pure joy.

Waving & Clapping

Waving hello and goodbye, clapping hands, or even blowing kisses are gestures that start appearing around 9 months. These aren’t just cute—they’re important signs of social and motor development. Babies begin to realise their actions make others react.

Pointing & Gestures

Pointing begins around 12 months and shows a baby is starting to understand shared attention. It’s their way of saying, “Look at that!”—and it’s a big deal. This kind of non-verbal communication is an early step in language development.

These milestones mark an incredible period of growth and discovery. While every baby develops at their own pace, watching them gain independence—one tiny step at a time—is one of the great joys of early parenthood. Celebrate each stage, and remember: you’re growing 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.