Developmental milestones at 2 months
Here's what most children are doing at 2 months, across key areas of development. Every child grows at their own pace — think of these as a guide, not a checklist. Want to see how your own child is doing?
Take the free 2-minute check →Social/Emotional
- Calms when comforted — Being soothed by a caregiver is an early sign of healthy attachment and emotional regulation.
- Looks at faces — Interest in faces supports early social bonding and visual development.
- Happy to see you — Recognizing and responding to a caregiver shows growing social awareness.
- Social smile — The social smile is an early building block of two-way communication.
Language/Communication
- Makes sounds other than crying — Early vocal sounds are the first steps toward babbling and speech.
- Reacts to loud sounds — Reacting to sound shows hearing is developing, which is essential for language.
Cognitive
- Watches you move — Following movement with the eyes shows developing attention and vision.
- Looks at a toy — Holding attention on an object supports early learning and focus.
Movement/Physical
- Holds head up on tummy — Head control builds the neck strength needed for sitting and later motor skills.
- Moves arms and legs — Moving both sides of the body shows muscles and nerves are working evenly.
- Opens hands briefly — Opening the hands prepares babies for reaching and grasping objects.
What if my child isn't there yet?
Milestones are ranges, not deadlines — children reach them at different times and that's normal. If your child is missing several milestones for their age, or something feels off, it's worth a quick check and a conversation with your paediatrician. The free ProParents check gives you a clear, private snapshot in two minutes — and a simple activity to try.
Check your child's development →Frequently asked questions
What are the key milestones at 2 months?
At 2 months, milestones span movement, language, thinking, and social-emotional development. Every child is different — this page lists what most children are doing, based on CDC guidance.
My child isn't doing all of these — should I worry?
Children grow at their own pace and milestones are ranges, not deadlines. If your child is missing several, or you have concerns, a quick check and a chat with your paediatrician is a good next step.
How can I support my 2 months old's development?
Small, consistent daily interactions matter most. Take the free 2-minute ProParents check to see where your child is and get a simple activity to try today.