"Each child is unique. While certain attitudes, behaviors, and physical milestones tend to occur at certain ages, a wide spectrum of growth and behavior for each age is normal. These guidelines are offered as a way of showing a general progression through the developmental stages rather than as fixed requirements for normal development at specific ages. It is perfectly natural for a child to attain some milestones earlier and other milestones later than the general trend. Keep this in mind as you review these milestones."

"If you have any concerns related to your child’s own pattern of development, check with your pediatrician or family physician." Donna Warner Manczak, Ph.D., M.P.H.

3 - 4 MONTHS

	Is active, alert and social.
	Rolls from tummy to back easily. Turns from side to back and from back to side. May roll from side to side.
	While lying on tummy, baby’s legs straighten and he seems to make swimming motions.
	Loves to splash with hands and feet in the bathtub.
	May sit with support.
	Holds head steady and erect.
	Takes steps when held in standing position.
	Reaches for objects, grasps at approximate size of object. Begins to bring objects to her mouth. Loves to explore by touching and mouthing objects. Is becoming more curious of her environment.
	May sleep through the night.
	Coos, smiles and wiggles to show happiness.
	Babbles with one syllable sounds like "da, ba, ma, pa, ga." May say "mmmm" to attract mother’s attention.
	Laughs with entire body and out loud.
	Cries much less than at 2 months. Colic may be over by the 4th month.
	Behaves in a friendly manner to familiar people, family members and especially mother. May cry when held by strangers.
	Holds eye contact for greater periods. Prefers bright colors to black and white. Head and eyes move in sync. Easily tracks objects with his eyes.
	Explores own body with hands.
	Begins to know he is distinct from objects.
	Plays for up to an hour at a time. May demand attention by fussing or may cry when play time is interrupted. May indicate he's had enough by rubbing eyes, turning away, sucking thumb or hand, or becoming irritable.
	May drool or become fussy if teething.
	Is developing her own unique personality. Can sense when her behavior may be unacceptable by parents reaction (voice, intonation, expression).
	Baby attempts to soothe himself when crying.

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Child Development