Developmental Milestones From Age 1 to 5: A Simple Guide for Families
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Developmental milestones are skills most children reach by a certain age, like walking, talking, playing and solving problems. Between ages 1 and 5, children grow from first steps and first words to hopping, counting and telling stories. Every child develops at their own pace.
What Are the 4 Types of Developmental Milestones?
Milestones fall into four areas: social and emotional, language and communication, cognitive (thinking and problem-solving) and movement and physical development. The examples below come from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) milestone checklists.
Developmental Milestones by Age
1-Year-Old Milestones
- Waves bye-bye
- Pulls up to stand and walks while holding on to furniture
- Calls a parent “mama,” “dada” or another special name
2-Year-Old Milestones
- Says at least two words together, like “more milk”
- Points to things in a book when you ask
- Kicks a ball and runs
3-Year-Old Milestones
- Talks with you in a short back-and-forth conversation
- Asks “who,” “what,” “where” or “why” questions
- Joins other children in play
4-Year-Old Milestones
- Says sentences of four or more words
- Pretends to be something else during play, like a superhero or a dog
- Comforts others who are hurt or sad
5-Year-Old Milestones
- Tells a story with at least two events
- Counts to 10
- Hops on one foot
What If My Child Hasn’t Reached a Milestone Yet?
Every child grows on their own timeline, and it’s common to be ahead in one area and still working on another. If you have concerns, or your child loses skills they once had, talk with your pediatrician about a developmental screening. You can also follow your child’s progress with the CDC’s free checklists and Milestone Tracker app at its Learn the Signs. Act Early. page.
At N Family School, our Educators get to know each child as an individual and shape learning around their development, interests and pace through the N Approach. Families can follow along with everyday moments through the N App.
Every milestone is worth celebrating, and we’d love to celebrate them with you. Inquire today to learn more about N Family School.
Frequently asked questions
What are developmental milestones?
Developmental milestones are skills most children can do by a certain age, such as waving, walking, talking in sentences or hopping on one foot. They cover social and emotional, language, cognitive and physical development.
What should I do if my child is behind on milestones?
Talk with your pediatrician and ask about a developmental screening. Many children catch up on their own, and if extra support would help, early intervention services are available in every state.
