3 months milestones
at 3 months, most babies have much better head control, are smiling regularly, and starting to discover their hands. social interaction becomes more rewarding for both parent and baby.
milestones at 3 months
physical
3 milestones- •holds head steady when supported upright
- •pushes up on forearms during tummy time
- •opens and shuts hands
cognitive
2 milestones- •watches faces intently and follows moving objects
- •recognises familiar objects and people at a distance
social & emotional
3 milestones- •smiles readily at familiar people
- •enjoys playing with others and may cry when playing stops
- •copies some facial expressions
language
2 milestones- •babbles with vowel sounds (aah, ooh)
- •copies sounds and makes different cries for different needs
when to talk to your GP
every child develops at their own pace, but speak to your GP or child health nurse if your child at 3 months:
- •doesn't smile at people
- •doesn't follow moving objects with eyes
- •doesn't grasp or hold objects placed in hand
- •doesn't respond to loud sounds
- •head still flops back when pulled to sitting
what parents can do
- •play with rattles and textured toys — babies are learning to reach and grab
- •read simple board books together — it's never too early
- •mirror play is great at this age — babies love seeing faces
- •continue supervised tummy time several times a day
next health check
in Australia, child health checks are free and available through your GP or child health nurse. these are a great opportunity to discuss any developmental concerns.
view all baby milestones
the complete month-by-month guide from birth to 5
this guide is for general developmental information only and is not medical advice. milestones are based on guidelines from the Raising Children Network, Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, and PEDS. every child develops differently — if you have any concerns about your child's development, please see your GP or child health nurse. mini mode is not affiliated with any government department or health service.