| CDC EI Information |
|
|
|
|
It’s time to change how we view a child’s growth. As they grow, children are always learning new things. These are just some of the things you should be looking for as your child grows. Because every child develops at his or her own pace, your child may reach these milestones slightly before or after other children the same age. Use this as a guide, and if you have any concerns, talk with your child’s doctor or nurse. By the end of 6 months, my child should be able to: •turn head when name is called •smile back at me •respond to sound with sounds •enjoy social play (such as peek-a-boo) By the end of 1 year (12 months), my child should be able to: •use simple gestures (such as shaking head for “no”) •use exclamations such as “uh oh” •imitate people in his or her play (clap when I clap) •respond when told “no” By the end of 2 years (24 months), my child should be able to: •use 2- to 4-word phrases •follow simple instructions •begin make-believe play (“talk” on a toy phone) •become more excited about other children By the end of 3 years (36 months), my child should be able to: •show affection for playmates •use 4- to 5-word sentences •imitate adults and playmates (run when other children run) •play make-believe with dolls, animals, and people (“cook” with toy food) By the end of 4 years (48 months), my child should be able to: •speak clearly so that strangers understand •follow 3-step commands (“Get dressed. Comb your hair, and wash your face.”) •tell stories •cooperate with other children By the end of 5 years (60 months), my child should be able to: •count out 10 or more objects •say own name and address •attempt to please and be like his or her friends •recall part of a story Questions to ask your child’s doctor or nurse: •What can I do to keep track of my child’s development? •What should I do if I’m worried about my child’s progress? •Can you refer me to a specialist for more information? •Where can I go to learn more? From CARING FOR YOUR BABY AND YOUNG CHILD: BIRTH TO AGE 5 by Steven Shelov, Robert E. Hannermann, © 1991, 1993, 1998, 2004 by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Used by permission of Bantam Books, a division of Random House, Inc. www.cdc.gov/actearly Learn the Signs. Act Early. |