Speech and language
Many babies at this age begin to coo, babble strings of sounds, turn towards a familiar voice and enjoy back-and-forth noises.
0–1 years
Baby
The first year is mostly about feeling safe, being held and slowly discovering what a body can do. Babies learn through faces, voices, touch and repetition, so ordinary caring moments are the learning. Every baby follows their own timing.
Six parts of growing
Development at this stage
Thinking and learning
Many babies at this age begin to look for a toy that has rolled away, explore objects with mouth and hands and recognise familiar routines.
Fine motor skills
Many babies at this age begin to grasp, pass an object between hands and pick up small pieces with finger and thumb.
Gross motor skills
Many babies at this age begin to lift their head, roll, sit with support and later pull up to stand.
Social and emotional
Many babies at this age begin to smile at familiar people, enjoy peekaboo and show comfort when held by someone they know.
Independence and daily skills
Many babies at this age begin to hold a bottle or cup, taste soft finger foods and settle into a predictable rhythm of sleep and feeding.
Practical support
How parents can help
- Talk and sing through everyday moments — nappy changes, baths, walks.
- Give short spells of supervised floor time on the tummy each day.
- Respond to sounds and gestures so babbling becomes a conversation.
- Keep routines calm and predictable; repetition is how babies learn.
Simple ideas
Face-to-face chat
Hold your baby close, pause after each sound they make and answer them.
Scarf peekaboo
Hide behind a light scarf and reappear with a smile.
Reach and grasp
Offer a safe rattle slightly out of reach and let them work for it.
Milestone collections
Milestones for this stage
Coming soon · 0–1 years
This age range is on the way
We're writing gentle milestones and activities for this age now. Ages 2 to 5 are ready to explore in the meantime.
Made for real family life
Activities for this age
Coming soon · 0–1 years
This age range is on the way
We're writing gentle milestones and activities for this age now. Ages 2 to 5 are ready to explore in the meantime.
My Child’s Journey is for learning and inspiration only. Every child grows at their own pace. It does not replace advice from your pediatrician or a qualified specialist — please talk to them with any questions about your child's development.