Child Development & Milestones

The first three years of a child's life are an amazing time of development and what happens during those years stays with a child for a lifetime. That's why it's so important to watch for signs of delays in development and to get help if there is a suspicion of problems.

Recognizing early warning signs for childhood problems can improve a child's chances for a joyful and independent future. As a child develops, their skills expand each month. Doctors often refer to these skills as "developmental milestones."

Developmental Quick Check

By 4 months:

Makes sounds other than crying
Pays attention to faces and turns towards your voice
Smiles in response to others

By 6 months:

Rolls over by themselves
Sits by themselves
Babbles

By 9 months:

Waves “bye-bye”
Crawls on hands and knees
Plays pat-a-cake and peek-a-boo

By 12 months:

Pulling themselves up to stand
Imitates simple sounds
Picks up small objects

By 15 months:

Takes steps on their own
Says one or two words (besides Mama or Dada)
Takes turns

By 18 months:

Turns book pages and looks at pictures
Says more simple words and imitates words and sounds
Shows what they want by pointing or gesturing

By 24 months:

Uses “no”
Knows many words and puts two words together
Understands simple direction
Knows body parts

By 36 months:

Can run and kick a ball
Can say three+ word sentences
Enjoys playing with other children
Can solve simple problems

If your child is not demonstrating these skills, please call to schedule an assessment and CHOOSE ACHIEVA!

Early Intervention Referral Contacts for Services

Allegheny County:
Call The Alliance for Infants and Toddlers at (412) 885-6000 and request an evaluation.

If your child is found to be eligible for early intervention services, choose Achieva.

Washington County:
Call Washington County Human Services at (724) 229-2620 and request an evaluation.