Understanding important behavioral developmental milestones in childhood
From the first time they smile through their first steps and more, childhood development behavioral milestones can help you track your child's growth and learning as they age. Delays in meeting these milestones could indicate an underlying concern and let you know when to speak to your child's pediatrician. Below, we’ll discuss important developmental milestones in a child’s first five years.
What are developmental milestones?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, developmental milestones “are things most children (75% or more) can do by a certain age.” The ways in which a child learns, moves, speaks, and plays can offer insight into their developmental progress.
Two months
Babies at this age can usually hold their heads up while lying on their stomachs, move both arms and both legs, and briefly open their hands. A two-month-old baby typically watches you as you move and often spends several seconds staring at a toy or another interesting object.
They also usually calm down when you speak to them or pick them up, look at your face in response, smile, and seem happy when you approach. Babies at this age often react to loud sounds by crying and can typically make sounds other than crying.
Four months
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, babies at four months old can usually do the following:
- Hold their head steady without support while being held
- Push up to their elbows or forearms when on their stomach
- Hold a toy when it’s placed in their hands
- Bring their hands to their mouth
- Use their arms to swing at toys
- Open their mouth when seeing a breast or bottle if they’re hungry
- Examine their hands with interest
A four-month-old baby can also usually smile on their own to get your attention; chuckle when you make them laugh; and move, look at you, or make sounds to get your attention. Babies at this age often use cooing sounds, frequently in response to something you say. You may also notice that they turn their head toward the sound of your voice when you speak.
Six months
Babies at this age can usually roll from their tummy to their back, lean on their hands for support while sitting, and push up with straight arms while lying on their stomachs. A six-month-old baby often puts things in their mouth to explore them, close their lips when they aren't hungry or don't want more food, and reaches to grab toys or other objects they want.
At this age, babies usually recognize familiar people, laugh, and enjoy looking at themselves in a mirror. They often take turns making sounds to “talk” to you, blow raspberries, and make squealing noises or other sounds to get your attention.
Nine months
Babies at this age can typically get into a sitting position by themselves, move objects from one hand to the other, sit without support, and use their fingers to pull food toward themselves in a raking motion. A nine-month-old baby also tends to look for objects dropped out of sight, such as food, bottles, or toys, and typically can bang two objects together.
At this stage, a baby may be clingy or fearful around strangers, smile or laugh when you play “peek-a-boo,” look when you call their name, show multiple facial expressions, and react when you leave. Babies at this age often lift their arms to indicate they want to be picked up, and they often make many different sounds, such as "bababa" or "mamamama.”
One year
Babies at this age can usually put something into a container, such as a shape-sorter toy, and look for objects that they see you hide. A one-year-old baby also typically waves goodbye to people, understands and briefly pauses when they hear the word no, and calls parents by special names.
At this age, babies usually enjoy playing games or singing songs with you, such as patty cake and the Itsy Bitsy Spider. They can also typically pull themselves up to stand, pick things up between their thumb and pointer fingers, walk while holding onto something, and drink from a cup without a lid if you hold it.
15 months
Children at this age can typically copy other children while playing, show affection with hugs or kisses, clap when excited, show you objects they like, and hug stuffed toys or dolls. A 15-month-old child usually also tries to say one or two words other than the special names used for parents, points to ask for something or your help, follows directions given by word or gesture, and looks at familiar objects when you name them.
Also, they often try to use objects like books or cups correctly and stack at least two small things, such as blocks. Children around this age can also usually take a few steps on their own and use their fingers to feed themselves some of their food.
18 months
Children at this age often feel confident moving away from you while watching to ensure you stay close. They may also help you dress them, point to show you things that interest them, look at pages in a book with you, and put out their hands for you to wash them. An 18-month-old child also typically tries to say three or more words aside from the special names used for parents and usually follows one-step directions without gestures.
At this age, a child also may mimic your behaviors, like pretending to sweep while you're doing chores. They can often walk without any support, climb onto and off of sofas or chairs without assistance, scribble on paper, try to use spoons, drink from cups without lids (with occasional spills), and feed themselves with their fingers.
Two years
Children at this age can usually notice when other people are upset, react to emotions displayed by others, and look at a person’s face to gauge how to respond to a new situation. A two-year-old child can also typically say at least two words together, use gestures beyond waving or pointing, point to at least two body parts when asked to identify them, and point to objects in a book when you ask them to find things.
At this stage, children can also usually hold an object in one hand while using the other, play with more than one toy simultaneously, and try to use knobs, buttons, or switches on toys. They can also typically kick a ball, eat with a spoon, run, and walk up a few stairs without climbing or receiving help.
30 months
Children at this age can usually play next to and with other children and follow simple routines, such as clean-up time. They may also say, "Look at me," to show you what they've done. A 30-month-old child can typically say around 50 words; use sentences of two or more words with one expressing an action; say words such as "we," "I," or "me"; and name objects in a book if you point and ask them to identify them.
Also, they may often play pretend, demonstrate that they know at least one color, show simple problem-solving skills, and follow two-step instructions. Children around this age can often jump off the ground with both feet at once and use their hands to turn things like doorknobs, turn book pages one at a time, and take some clothes off by themselves.
Three years
Children at this age can usually notice other children, join them to play in groups, and calm down within 10 minutes of being separated from their caregivers. A three-year-old child also typically has the following abilities:
- Have conversations involving at least two back-and-forth interactions
- Ask "who, what, where, when, and why" questions
- Talk well enough that people outside their family can understand them most of the time
- Identify actions in a picture or book when asked
- Answer their first name on request
At this stage of development, a child can also typically draw a circle if you show them how, and they can usually avoid touching hot objects, such as the stove or fireplace after you warn them it will hurt. Children around this age can also usually use a fork, partially dress themselves, and string items like large beads or macaroni together.
Four years
Children at this age can typically pretend to be someone else during play, ask to play with other children if none are nearby, change behavior expectations according to their surroundings, and avoid danger, such as by refusing to jump from a tall slide. In terms of language and cognition, a four-year-old child can also usually use sentences with four or more words, answer simple questions, memorize some words from favorite songs or nursery rhymes, and talk about at least one thing that happened to them that day.
A child at this stage may also name a few colors, draw someone with three or more body parts, and say what happens next in their favorite stories. They can generally catch a large ball most of the times they try, hold writing utensils between their fingers and thumb rather than in a fist, serve themselves food or pour water with supervision, and unbutton some of their buttons alone.
Five years
Children at five years of age can usually follow rules and take turns when playing with other children. They can also typically complete simple chores like clearing the table and can perform for you by singing, dancing, or acting. In terms of physical ability, they can typically hop on one foot and button some of their buttons.
A five-year-old child can also usually do the following:
- Tell complete stories they either heard or made up that include at least two events
- Use or recognize simple rhyming words
- Answer simple questions about a story you read together
- Keep a conversation going through three or more back-and-forth interactions
At this age, a child can also usually count to at least 10, name some letters or numbers when you point to them, write some of the letters in their name, pay attention for five to 10 minutes during a structured activity, and use words such as yesterday, tomorrow, morning, or night in relation to their understanding of time.
How therapy might help you as a parent or caregiver
If you have concerns about your child’s development, you might consider speaking to your pediatrician. They may refer you to speak with a professional who specializes in assessing children’s development. In the meantime, you might consider finding support for yourself as a parent or caregiver. Concerns about the development of a child can cause stress and anxiety for caregivers, who deserve support as they nurture young children.
If you don’t have time to visit a counselor’s office, you might consider online therapy, which research has shown to be just as effective as in-office therapy. As a parent, you can work with a therapist online through a virtual therapy platform like BetterHelp. You can communicate with a licensed therapist via audio or video sessions at a time that works for your schedule.
A licensed therapist might help you develop positive, practical parenting strategies and healthy coping mechanisms to manage stress and frustration. With BetterHelp, you can contact your therapist in between sessions via in-app messaging if you have questions or concerns, whether they’re related to parenting or something completely different.
According to mental health experts at the American Psychological Association, online therapy provides numerous benefits and comparable results to traditional treatment in an office setting. Virtual therapy is generally less expensive, tends to have shorter wait times than in-office treatment, and offers the convenience of attending from the comfort of your home.
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Takeaway
Why is behavioral development important?
Behavioral development may be important for several reasons, spanning various aspects of an individual's life. Here are some key reasons why behavioral developmental processes are important:
- Social Interaction: Behavioral development is fundamental for social interaction. It involves learning appropriate social behaviors, communication skills, and understanding social cues. These skills may be vital for forming relationships and participating in social contexts.
- Emotional Regulation: Developing appropriate behaviors contributes to emotional regulation. Individuals learn how to express and manage their emotions in socially acceptable ways, fostering mental and emotional well-being.
- Relationship Building: Positive behavioral development may be essential for building and maintaining healthy relationships. It involves empathy, cooperation, and effective communication, all of which contribute to positive interactions with others.
- Academic Success: Behavioral development plays a role in academic success. Students who exhibit positive behaviors, such as attentiveness, persistence, and the ability to work collaboratively, are more likely to excel in educational settings.
- Adaptability and Coping Skills: Developing behavioral flexibility and coping skills is crucial for navigating life's challenges. Individuals with well-developed behavioral skills can adapt to new situations and cope effectively with stressors.
- Conflict Resolution: Behavioral development includes learning constructive ways to resolve conflicts. Individuals who possess effective conflict resolution skills can navigate disagreements without causing harm to relationships or while avoiding adverse outcomes.
What is behavior development in early childhood?
Behavioral development in early childhood refers to the gradual and systematic changes in a child's behavior as they grow and mature during the early years of life, typically from birth to around 8 years old. This period is characterized by significant milestones, sensitive periods, and stages of development that impact a child's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being. Behavioral development encompasses a wide range of skills, habits, and patterns of behavior that are acquired and refined during early childhood. The process may be impacted by environmental variables that an individual child may experience.
What is the development of human behavior?
The development of human behavior is a complex and multifaceted process that involves a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and social factors. Human behavior undergoes significant changes across the lifespan, from infancy through adulthood. Some of the key stages include:
Infancy and Early Childhood:
- Biological Factors: Fetal brain development, genetic factors, and epigenetic changes may influence temperament, predispositions, and the physical development of a growing body.
- Social and Environmental Factors: Early experiences, attachment to caregivers, and exposure to a nurturing environment play a crucial role in shaping social and emotional behaviors.
Middle Childhood:
- Cognitive Development: Piaget's stages of cognitive development highlight the growth of logical reasoning and problem-solving abilities.
- Socialization: Children learn societal norms, values, and gender roles, and sex differences through interactions with peers, family, and cultural influences.
Adolescence:
- Identity Formation: This stage emphasizes the development of a sense of identity and the search for autonomy, individuals may begin to plan for future work or career decisions.
- Peer Influence: Adolescents often seek validation from peers, impacting behaviors, values, and decision-making.
Adulthood:
- Intimacy and Relationships: This stage continues with the exploration of intimacy and the formation of long-term relationships.
- Career Development: Individuals establish careers, and work experiences contribute to personal development, individual differences, and identity.
Older Adulthood:
- Contemplation: Later stages involve reflection on life, generativity (contributing to society), and the acceptance of one's life.
- Cognitive Aging: Changes in cognitive ability may occur, influencing memory, problem-solving, and decision-making.
What is the behavioral theory of human development?
The behavioral theory of human development is a psychological perspective that emphasizes the importance of observable behaviors and the influence of the environment in shaping an individual's development. This theory contrasts with cognitive theories that focus more on internal mental processes. Behavioral theories are rooted in the idea that behavior is learned through interactions with the environment, and they highlight the role of reinforcement, punishment, and modeling in shaping human development. Two prominent theorists associated with behavioral theories are B.F. Skinner and Albert Bandura.
Why is behavior important in child development?
Behavior is a critical aspect of child development, and understanding and fostering positive behaviors in children contribute significantly to their overall well-being and success. Here are several reasons why behavior is important in child development:
- Social Interaction: Positive behaviors are essential for successful social interactions. Children who exhibit prosocial behaviors, such as sharing, cooperating, and communicating effectively, may build healthy relationships with peers, family, and adults.
- Emotional Regulation: Behaviors play a key role in emotional regulation. Children who develop healthy coping mechanisms and emotional regulation skills may be better equipped to manage stress, frustration, and other emotions constructively.
- Academic Success: Positive behaviors, such as attentiveness, persistence, and cooperation, contribute to academic achievement or success. Children who exhibit appropriate behaviors in the classroom may engage in learning and perform well academically.
- Conflict Resolution: Behavioral skills are crucial for resolving conflicts. Children who learn how to express themselves, listen to others, and negotiate effectively may develop conflict-resolution skills that are valuable in various aspects of life.
- Communication Skills: Language and communication skills are integral to child development. Positive behaviors, such as active listening and effective communication, enhance a child's ability to express themselves, understand others, and engage in meaningful conversations.
- Socialization: Learning appropriate behaviors is a key aspect of socialization. Children who acquire social skills, manners, and cultural norms may be better prepared to navigate diverse social environments.
- Self-Esteem and Self-Concept: Positive behaviors contribute to the development of a positive self-concept and self-esteem. Children who experience success in their interactions and activities may be more likely to develop a healthy sense of self-worth.
- Peer Relationships: Behaviors significantly influence peer relationships. Children who exhibit kindness, empathy, and cooperation may form positive and supportive friendships, contributing to their social development.
- Independence and Autonomy: As children grow, positive behaviors contribute to the development of independence and autonomy. Learning to make responsible choices and take on age-appropriate responsibilities may be essential for personal development.
What is the most appropriate meaning of behavior?
In the context of psychology and human sciences, behavior is commonly defined as the observable actions, reactions, or conduct of an individual or a group in response to stimuli or situations. It encompasses a wide range of activities that can be observed and measured, including both overt actions and more subtle processes like thinking and emotional responses.
What are behavioral skills?
Behavioral skills, also known as soft skills or interpersonal skills, refer to the abilities and competencies that individuals use to interact effectively with others, navigate social situations, and achieve success in personal and professional relationships. These skills are crucial in various aspects of life, including the workplace, education, and social settings. Behavioral skills encompass a broad range of capabilities, and they are often valued for their role in fostering positive communication, collaboration, and overall interpersonal effectiveness. Some examples of behavioral skills include communication, adaptability, leadership, empathy, and listening skills.
What is the main idea of the behavioral perspective on personality?
The main idea of the behavioral perspective on personality is that personality is primarily shaped by observable behaviors and the environmental influences that reinforce or punish those behaviors. Unlike other perspectives that focus on internal thoughts, feelings, or unconscious processes, the behavioral perspective emphasizes the importance of studying and understanding behaviors related to mental disorders or processes that can be directly observed and measured.
What is an example of a behavioral perspective?
An example of a behavioral perspective can be illustrated through the concept of operant conditioning, a key principle in behaviorism. Operant conditioning, developed by B.F. Skinner explores how behaviors are influenced by the consequences that follow them—whether those consequences are reinforcing or punishing. Here's an example to illustrate the behavioral perspective using operant conditioning:
Example: Classroom Behavior
Situation: Imagine a classroom setting where a teacher is trying to encourage positive behavior in students.
Behavior: The target behavior is students raising their hands before speaking during class discussions.
Operant Conditioning Elements:
- Positive Reinforcement: When a student raises their hand before speaking, the teacher praises the student, acknowledges them, or provides positive feedback.
- Negative Reinforcement: The teacher may also use negative reinforcement by removing an aversive stimulus when students exhibit the desired behavior.
- Punishment: If a student speaks out of turn without raising their hand, the teacher may introduce a form of punishment to decrease the likelihood of the behavior occurring again.
- Extinction: Extinction involves withholding reinforcement for a previously reinforced behavior, leading to a decrease in that behavior.
In this example, the behavioral perspective is evident in how the teacher employs operant conditioning principles to shape and modify students' behavior. Positive and negative reinforcement are used to strengthen the desired behavior of raising hands, while punishment and extinction are applied to discourage unwanted behaviors. The focus is on observable behaviors and the consequences that influence their occurrence, aligning with the principles of the behavioral perspective.
Why is it important for behavioral expectations to align with the child's stage of development?
Aligning behavioral expectations with a child's stage of development is crucial for several reasons, as it promotes healthy social, emotional, and cognitive development. Here are some key reasons why it is important for behavioral expectations to be developmentally appropriate:
- Realistic Expectations: Developmentally appropriate expectations consider the child's age, abilities, and stage of development. Setting realistic expectations helps to ensure that the child is not held to standards that exceed their current capabilities.
- Promotes Positive Self-Esteem: Unrealistic expectations can lead to frustration and an increased risk of feeling a sense of failure for the child. Developmentally appropriate expectations promote a positive self-image by recognizing and celebrating achievements that align with the child's current developmental stage.
- Supports Healthy Development: Children go through distinct stages of development, and each stage is associated with specific milestones. Aligning expectations with these milestones supports the child's natural progression and allows them to master skills at a developmentally appropriate pace.
- Encourages Independence: Developmentally appropriate expectations allow children to experience a sense of autonomy and independence. When expectations match their abilities, children are more likely to take initiative, explore, and engage in age-appropriate activities.
- Enhances Motivation and Curiosity: When expectations are well-matched to a child's developmental stage, they are more likely to be motivated to learn and explore. Age-appropriate challenges encourage curiosity and a love for learning.
- Facilitates Positive Interactions: Age-appropriate expectations contribute to positive interactions between adults and children. Understanding and respecting the child's developmental level fosters effective communication, cooperation, and a healthy adult-child relationship.
- Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Unrealistic expectations can create stress and anxiety for children. Aligning expectations with their developmental stages reduces unnecessary pressure, allowing children to feel more secure and confident in their abilities.
- Cultivates a Growth Mindset: Developmentally appropriate expectations support the development of a growth mindset, where children understand that effort and learning lead to improvement. This mindset encourages resilience and a positive attitude toward challenges.
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