Development

As a parent, you’re the best judge of your child’s development.

These identified milestones offer an estimated guide, as all babies develop differently. You should only feel concerned if you notice delays in a few of these areas, over the course of several months.

Try to resist comparing your baby to others. All babies are unique in their development, appearance and personality.

Things to know about toddlers:

They’re still finding out how exciting the world is and how everything works
They’re inquisitive and curious
They can’t see the effects of their actions yet
They’re learning to regulate their emotions
They’re striving for independence
They want to try and test everything
They have rapid mood swings
They have short attention spans
They’ll test their limits and capabilities

A common response you may hear from your toddler is ‘no’. Though this gives the impression they won’t cooperate, it’s actually a very normal part of life. (Think negotiation, discipline, safety and rules.)

Frequently Asked Questions

What about their brain development?

The area of our brain that regulates emotions and comprehends the effect of our behaviour continues to develop until we’re about 25. Your toddler is at the very beginning of this growth – which is why tantrums, aggression, inability to share, and sibling rivalries are so common.

Where can I find official information on development milestones?

Across Australia, all parents are provided with a Child Personal Health Record, which will be unique to the state you live in. In NSW it is also known as a Blue Book. The Child Personal Health Record is a terrific resource for you to bring to appointments with all the varied health services your baby may need. It’s also a great way to keep up to date with your child’s developmental milestones.

There are development checks in your book that you can discuss with your GP and/or child and family health nurse. You’ll also find easy to read information on promoting your child’s growth and development, as well as useful tips on local support and health services.

Another helpful NSW Health parent resource is the Learn the Signs, Act Early website. This site offers short videos on each age group – a guide that may help your confidence in supporting your baby’s development. You’ll also find downloadable information and brochures.

When should I seek professional help?

As a general guide, seek professional help if you notice your baby:

Doesn’t respond to sounds consistently
Doesn’t seem to see things or look at you
Has white or cloudy pupils, or something about their eyes that’s not quite right

Isn’t interested in what’s going on around them
Doesn’t move or use both arms and/or legs
Has an usual cry
Cries persistently for more than three hours a day
Can’t hold their head up at 3-4 months
Isn’t sitting well by 10 months
Is not able to pull to stand by one year

How can I monitor my child's development?

Your child’s growth and development is monitored in a number of ways. These include:

Checking your child’s milestones
Filling in health check questionnaires
Professional health examinations

Children should be examined by a healthcare professional at:

Birth
1-4 weeks
6-8 weeks
6 months
12 months
18 months
2 years
3 years
4 years

Karitane Tip: This is the minimum number of recommended visits. Make sure you take your child to visit your doctor or child and family health nurse at these stages. If you have any additional concerns about your baby’s growth and development, consult your healthcare professional.

Watch the videos below as they take you through the key developmental stages your child will experience. They also offer fun play ideas designed to boost your child’s learning at every age (sourced from Raising Children).

Health checks at child and family health centres

Your local child and family health centre is an ideal place to receive free check-ups from a qualified child and family health nurse. To identify your nearest centre, contact Health Direct Australia on 1800 022 222.

Karitane Tip: If you have any concerns about your child’s development, make an appointment to speak with your family doctor or child and family health nurse.

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