What it means
A marker used to follow a child's growth in movement, language, thinking and social skills. Examples: most babies smile socially by about 2 months, sit without support by about 6 to 9 months, and walk by about 12 to 15 months. Children vary, but a missed milestone or a loss of skills already gained may point to a delay that needs a closer look.
For the nurse
Ask parents what the child can do at each well visit and use a standard screening tool. Refer for evaluation when milestones are missed or skills are lost. Teaching about what comes next also helps with safety, such as rolling off surfaces or reaching hot liquids.
At a glance
| Spanish | hito del desarrollo |
|---|---|
| Also written | developmental milestones |
Related terms
infant
A baby from birth to 1 year of age.
neonate
A newborn baby in the first 28 days of life.
cerebral palsy
A group of lifelong disorders of movement and posture caused by damage to the developing brain before, during or soon after birth.