Every child grows at their own pace, but there are broad patterns most children follow. This checklist is a simple guide to what many children do at each age. It is not a test, and one "late" skill on its own is rarely a problem. Use it to know roughly what to expect, and to notice early if something may need a closer look.
By 2 months
- Calms or briefly quietens when picked up or spoken to
- Looks at your face and follows a moving object with their eyes
- Begins to smile at people (social smile)
- Holds head up briefly during tummy time
By 6 months
- Responds to sounds and turns toward voices
- Laughs, squeals, and makes babbling sounds
- Reaches for and brings objects to the mouth
- Rolls over and begins to sit with support
By 9 months
- Recognises familiar people and may be wary of strangers
- Babbles strings of sounds ("mamama", "bababa")
- Looks for a toy when it is hidden
- Sits without support and may begin to crawl
By 12 months (1 year)
- Waves "bye-bye" and plays simple games like peek-a-boo
- Says one or two words such as "mama" or "dada" with meaning
- Understands "no" and follows a simple request with a gesture
- Pulls to stand and may take first steps
By 18 months
- Points to show you something interesting
- Says several single words and copies you
- Walks well and may try to run
- Shows affection and may have simple pretend play (feeding a doll)
By 2 years
- Uses two-word phrases ("more milk", "want ball")
- Follows simple instructions and points to things in a book
- Kicks a ball and walks up steps with help
- Notices when others are hurt or upset
By 3 years
- Speaks in short sentences most people can understand
- Plays alongside and begins to play with other children
- Draws a circle and stacks several blocks
- Manages some self-care, like putting on loose clothing
By 4–5 years
- Tells a simple story and answers "why" questions
- Counts a few objects and names some colours
- Hops, and draws simple shapes and people
- Enjoys imaginative play and takes turns with friends
When to seek help sooner
Talk to a professional at any age if your child:
- Loses skills they once had (this always deserves prompt attention)
- Does not make eye contact, smile socially, or respond to their name
- Is not babbling by 12 months or not using single words by 16–18 months
- Is not walking by around 18 months
- Is very hard to understand by age 3, or is not combining words by age 2
What to do if you are concerned
Acting early makes a real difference. The developing brain is most responsive in the early years, so earlier support tends to help more. Start at your nearest Klinik Kesihatan, which tracks development at routine visits, or see a paediatrician. If you want a fuller picture, ask for a developmental assessment with a paediatrician or a developmental paediatrician such as Dr Nisa Khalil, rather than waiting for the next scheduled check-up.
You can also explore developmental milestones and red flags in more detail, and request support, through Child Development Finder.
Want a closer look at your child's development?
Child Development Finder walks you through milestones by age and helps you find support.
Open Child Development Finder →This guide provides general educational information based on widely used developmental frameworks and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Children vary, and this checklist cannot diagnose a delay. If you have concerns about your child, please consult a qualified healthcare professional such as your paediatrician or nearest Klinik Kesihatan.