Developmental milestones record - 2 months

This article describes the skills and growth targets of 2-month-old infants.

Information

Physical and motor-skill markers:

  • Closing of soft spot at the back of the head (posterior fontanelle)
  • Several newborn reflexes, such as the stepping reflex (baby appears to dance or step when placed upright on solid surface) and grasp reflex (grasping a finger), disappear
  • Less head lag (head is less wobbly on the neck)
  • When on stomach, able to lift head almost 45 degrees
  • Less flexing of the arms and legs while lying on the stomach

Sensory and cognitive markers:

  • Beginning to look at close objects
  • Coos
  • Different cries means different things
  • Head turns from side to side with sound at the level of the ear
  • Smiles
  • Responds to familiar voices

Play recommendations:

  • Expose your baby to sounds outside those of the home
  • Take your baby for rides in the car or walks in the neighborhood
  • The room should be bright with pictures and mirrors
  • Toys and objects should be bright colors
  • Read to your baby
  • Talk to your baby about objects and people in his or her environment

Alternative Names

Normal childhood growth milestones - 2 months; Childhood growth milestones - 2 months; Growth milestones for children - 2 months

References

Feigelman S. The first year. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th Ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 8.

Update Date: 1/17/2012

Reviewed by: Jennifer K. Mannheim, ARNP, Medical Staff, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Seattle Children's Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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