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Developmental Stages

Development Milestones

Milestones describe the developmental steps children take from birth through to adulthood.

All babies and children will change and learn new skills in their own time. No two children are the same so it is important not to get too focused on exactly when milestones are reached. Instead, knowing about milestones can be useful as a guide on whether your child is on track. 

For some children not reaching milestones can be one of the signs that let parents and professionals know a child could need extra support. 

In the early weeks and months of your baby’s life the ‘milestones’ come thick and fast. As they get older developmental changes might not happen as obviously, or as often, but your child is still developing and changing.

Parents and carers are vital in helping children meet their potential. The time you spend talking, playing, praising and guiding your child will give them the confidence and opportunity to learn more about themselves, what they can do, and about the world around them.

What To Expect & When?

Below are some of the things you might expect your child to be doing at certain ages. It is unlikely that your child will be absolutely on target in all different areas of development. 

Milestones are used as a rough guide. The most important thing is your child is making steady progress at their own pace.

Who can Help?

You can contact the Healthy Child Programme by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123 or texting Parentline on 07520 631590. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am-1pm on Saturdays.

Young people aged 11-19 can text Chat Health on 07480 635060.

To speak to other Norfolk parents and carers, you can join our online community forum below.

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