DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES*
Physical Characteristics
Gains approximately one pound/month
Doubles original birth weight
Begins to cut teeth
Motor Development
Uses finger and thumb to pick up objects
Transfers objects from one hand to the other
Holds own bottle
Sits alone without support, holding head erect, back straight, and arms propped forward for support
Pulls self into crawling position, rocks back and forth, but generally does not move forward
Lifts up head when placed on back
Begins scooting backwards, sometimes accidently
Enjoys being placed in standing position
Cognitive Development
Looks for objects that fall out of sight and enjoys repeatedly throwing objects
Handles and explores objects by turning, banging and shaking
Speech and Language Development
Responds appropriately to own name and simple requests, such as “eat”
Babbles by repeating same syllable in a series: ba, ba, ba
Personal-Social Development
Imitates facial expressions, actions, and sounds
Distinguishes between and responds differently to strangers, teachers, and parents
DEVELOPMENTAL ALERTS
Check with your child's pediatrician if by Eight Months your child does NOT:
Show even, steady increase in weight, height, and head size
Explore own hands and objects placed in hands
Hold and shake rattle
Smile, babble, and laugh out loud
Search for hidden objects
Use thumb and finger to pick up objects
Have an interest in playing games, such as “peek-a-boo”
Appear interested in new or unusual sounds
Reach for and grasp objects
Sit alone
Did you answer yes to one or more of the developmental alerts?
- First and foremost, please contact your child's pediatrician. Your health care provider is your best resource if you have any questions or concerns.
- Secondly, would you like to speak with someone at Special Kids to learn more about how our services may benefit your child? Contact our Family Resources team to learn more.
*Developmental milestone survey adapted from Lynn Marotz and K. Eileen Allen's book Developmental Profiles: Pre-birth through Adolescence.