Get Your FREE Pregnancy & Postpartum Checklist!The first three months of a newborn’s life—often called the fourth trimester—are full of rapid growth and development. Your baby is adjusting to life outside the womb, and while every baby develops at their own pace, there are certain milestones you can expect.
This guide will walk you through:
Key developmental milestones by month What’s normal (and when to worry) How to support your baby’s development
Newborn Milestones by Month
Remember: Every baby develops on their own timeline. Some may hit milestones early, while others take more time.
Month 1: Adjusting to Life Outside the Womb
Turns head toward voices Focuses on faces about 8-12 inches away Moves arms and legs randomly Startles at loud noises (Moro reflex) Lifts head briefly when on tummy
How to Help:
Do lots of skin-to-skin contact to help with bonding.
Use high-contrast black & white toys to support vision development.
Talk, sing, and read to baby—they already recognize your voice!
Related Post: Newborn Vision & Hearing: What Your Baby Can See & Hear at Birth
Month 2: Becoming More Interactive
Begins to smile responsively 
Coos and makes gurgling sounds 
Follows objects with eyes Holds head up better during tummy time 
Kicks legs and waves arms more purposefully 
How to Help:
Play gentle music or talk frequently—this encourages baby to respond.
Provide tummy time to strengthen neck and shoulder muscles.
Hold baby upright more often to help them practice head control.
Related Post: Tummy Time for Newborns: Why It’s Important & How to Do It Right
Month 3: More Movement & Social Smiles
Holds head steady when upright Bats at toys and may grasp objects Laughs for the first time Pushes up on arms during tummy time Recognizes familiar people and voices
How to Help:
Play peek-a-boo or make silly faces—baby is learning about social interaction!
Offer soft, easy-to-grab toys to encourage reaching and grasping.
Continue lots of tummy time—this helps develop strength for rolling over.
Related Post: Newborn Reflexes: What They Mean & Why They Matter
When to Call Your Pediatrician
Possible Concerns at 2-3 Months:
Baby isn’t smiling or reacting to people Doesn’t respond to loud noises or voices Has very stiff or very floppy movements Doesn’t track objects with their eyes Never lifts their head during tummy time
Pro Tip: If your baby is a little behind on a milestone but seems otherwise alert and healthy, it’s usually not a concern. Always check with your pediatrician if you’re unsure!
Birthify’s Expert Support for New Parents
Curious if your baby is meeting milestones? Not sure what’s normal? Birthify’s newborn care specialists provide real-time support so you can feel confident in your baby’s development.
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