Stage 2 of 7, 0–3 years
Infancy
Like a sponge in a new city: every sight, sound and face is soaked up to learn how the world works.
The fastest brain growth of life happens here. Babies learn through their senses, touch and close relationships with caregivers.
Common milestones
- 0–3 months: lifts head on tummy time, smiles socially, follows objects with eyes.
- 4–6 months: rolls over, babbles, reaches for and grasps toys.
- 7–12 months: sits without support, crawls, says first sounds like 'ma-ma', understands 'no'.
- 12–18 months: walks, uses a few words, points to show interest, feeds self with a spoon.
- 18–36 months: runs, climbs stairs, uses two-word then short sentences, begins pretend play.
How parents and carers can help
- Respond quickly and warmly to cries; secure attachment builds trust.
- Read, sing and name everyday objects; conversation is the best early lesson.
- Offer safe floor time for movement and tummy time daily.
- Keep screens minimal; real-world talk and play matter more at this age.
- Keep routines for sleep and meals; predictability calms toddlers.