What to know
Skills such as taking a first step, smiling for the first time, and waving "bye-bye," are called developmental milestones. CDC's Learn the Signs. Act Early. tools support parents in tracking their child's developmental milestones.
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Skills such as taking a first step, smiling for the first time, and waving “bye-bye,” are called developmental milestones. From birth to 5 years, your child should reach milestones in how he or she plays, learns, speaks, acts and moves.
Families can use CDC's Learn the Signs. Act Early. tools to track developmental milestones from as early as 2 months to help better understand children's abilities and stay in tune with their developmental health.
Track Your Child's Development with CDC's Milestone Tracker app!
Developmental Milestones
Track your child's milestones with CDC's, FREE Milestone Tracker app, available for iOS and Android in English and Spanish. Interactive developmental milestone checklists help you know what to look for in your child. Use the app to complete a checklist for your child's age, share a summary with your child's healthcare provider, and get tips for encouraging your child's development. The app has many easy-to-use features, including:
- Milestone checklists for 2 months through 5 years of age
- Summary of your child's milestones to share
- Activities to support your child's development
- Tips for what to do if you become concerned
- Reminders for appointments and developmental screening
Download CDC's Milestone Tracker App
Print Free Resources
CDC's Learn the Signs. Act Early. program offers many free, family-friendly tools to help track milestones from ages 2 months to 5 years!
- Regularly complete a milestone checklist for your child's age to track and celebrate the milestones that he or she is reaching. Print a checklist today!
- This booklet helps parents keep track of their child's development from 2 months to 5 years of age. Helpful tips and activities to help parents support their child's development are also included.
Visit www.cy118119.com/ActEarly/Materials to learn more and view other free materials.
Missing Milestones? Time to Act Early.
Making sure all children have the help and support they need to overcome challenges, find their strengths, and reach their full potential starts early. You know your child best. If your child is missing milestones for his or her age or you have concerns about your child's development:
- Talk with your child's doctor (find tips for this conversation here);
- Share your concerns (use a milestone checklist to point out areas of concern); and
- Ask about developmental screening.
Reminder
If you or the doctor is still concerned,
- Ask the doctor for a referral to a specialist; and
- Call for a free evaluation to find out if your child can get services to help.
- If your child is under 3 years old, call your local early intervention program.
- If your child is 3 years old or older, call any local public elementary school.
Don't wait. Acting early can make a real difference!
- For more about what to do if you have a concern, visit www.cy118119.com/Concerned.
- For more information about CDC's Learn the Signs. Act Early. visit www.cy118119.com/ActEarly.