Developmental milestones for infants between 2 and 4 months

The first time you see your child smile, you will definitely melt and feel like you have been given a blessing from above. You can expect this to happen in this period, between 2 and 4 months of age.

As your baby’s muscles develop, you can see her lifting her self on her elbows while lying on her tummy. This is a clear sign you can start with tummy time exercises. It can be difficult at the start but luckily we have developed a perfect application to help you with that about which you can read more here. Oh, it is FREE.

Social/Emotional Milestones

• Smiles on his own to get your attention
• Chuckles (not yet a full laugh) when you try to make him laugh
• Looks at you, moves, or makes sounds to get or keep your attention
• Will try copying your movements and facial expressions
• Likes to play with others and may get upset when playtime stops

Cognitive Milestones (learning, thinking, problem-solving)

• If hungry, opens mouth when he sees breast or bottle
• Looks at her hands with interest
• She will let you know if she’s happy or sad
• Watches faces closely
• Will reach for toys with one hand
• Will begin to recognize objects and people she is familiar with from a distance.
• Is responsive to love and affection
• Will track moving objects with her eyes by following them side to side

Language/Communication Milestones

• Makes sounds like “oooo”, “aahh” (cooing) 
• Makes sounds back when you talk to him 
• Turns head towards the sound of your voice
• Cries will start to sound different if he is hungry, in pain or tired

Movement/Physical Development Milestones

• Holds head steady without support when you are holding him 
• Holds a toy when you put it in his hand 
• Uses his arm to swing at toys 
• Brings hands to mouth 
• Pushes up onto elbows/forearms when on tummy (check out our Tummy Time app)
• Might be able to roll over onto his back
• He will push down on his legs when his feet are on a hard surface
• Can shake a toy he’s holding

Please keep in mind that this is not medical advice. These developmental milestones are what 75% of children are capable of at this age. If your child does not achieve these milestones at this time, please do not be alarmed. Remember that you know your child best and if you do feel there is something wrong please contact your medical professional.

CDC Source: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/milestones-4mo.html
UNICEF Source: https://www.unicef.org/parenting/child-development/your-babys-developmental-milestones-4-months