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Age 1-3 Months

Between 1-3 months of age, babies begin the transformation from a totally dependent newborn to active and responsive babies. Many of the newborn reflexes are lost by this age. Babies’ vision changes dramatically and they become more aware and interested in their surroundings. They might follow moving objects, recognize familiar objects and people at a distance, and start using their hands and eyes in coordination. At this age, babies usually turn toward familiar voices and smile at their parent’s faces or other familiar faces. They also begin to coo (make musical vowel sounds, such as ooo or aaa).

The neck muscles become stronger during these first few months. At first, babies can only hold their heads up for a couple of seconds while on their stomachs. The muscles are strengthened each time the head is held up. By age 3 months, babies lying on their stomachs can support their heads and chests up to their forearms. 

Arm and hand movement develops fast during this stage. What was once a tight, clenched fist is now an open hand grabbing and batting at objects. Babies explore their hands by bringing them in front of their face and putting them in their mouths.

By the end of this period, most babies have reached the following milestones:

Motor skills

• Support head and upper body when on stomach



• Stretch out legs and kick when on stomach or back



• Open and shut hands



• Bring hands to mouth



• Grab and shake hand toys



• Swipe and bat at dangling objects



• Push down legs when on a flat surface



• Follow moving objects

• Make cooing sounds

• Smile at familiar faces



• Enjoy playing with other people