Developmental Milestones for 3 Months
Key developmental milestones children typically reach at this age, based on CDC, WHO, and Montessori frameworks.
What your child is working on right now
Calms down when spoken to or picked up
Looks at your face
Seems happy to see you when you walk up to them
Smiles when you talk to or smile at them
CDC Developmental Milestones
Calms down when spoken to or picked up
Social/Emotional
Looks at your face
Social/Emotional
Seems happy to see you when you walk up to them
Social/Emotional
Smiles when you talk to or smile at them
Social/Emotional
Makes sounds other than crying
Language/Communication
Reacts to loud sounds
Language/Communication
Watches you as you move
Cognitive (Learning, Thinking, Problem-Solving)
Looks at a toy for several seconds
Cognitive (Learning, Thinking, Problem-Solving)
Holds head up when on tummy
Movement/Physical Development
Moves both arms and both legs
Movement/Physical Development
Opens hands briefly
Movement/Physical Development
ASQ-3 Developmental Domains
Makes cooing sounds (oohs, aahs)
Communication
Lifts head when on tummy
Gross Motor
Holds a rattle when placed in hand
Fine Motor
Follows a moving toy with eyes
Problem Solving
Smiles when talked to by a caregiver
Personal-Social
Montessori Sensitive Periods
Absorbs sounds and rhythms of language — the unconscious absorption of the 'mother tongue'
Language
Explores objects with mouth and hands — using senses to learn about the physical world
Sensory Refinement
Developing gross motor control — rolling, crawling, pulling up, driven to move the whole body
Movement
Reggio Emilia Approach
Shows sustained attention to an object or phenomenon — gazes at, reaches for, or manipulates something with focused interest
Investigation & Inquiry
Activities to Support Development
Baby Foot Painting
Create adorable foot print art with your baby using non-toxic paint. A fun sensory experience they'll love.
Baby Mirror Faces
Make faces in a mirror with baby, copying each other's expressions and smiles.
Baby Rattle Reach
Hold rattles at different positions so baby reaches and grasps in various directions.
Black & White Card Gazing
High-contrast cards support visual development in newborns. Simple, science-backed, and free to print.
Crawl Through a Tunnel
Set up a play tunnel or make one from boxes and crawl through it.
Crinkle Sound Exploration
Babies love the sound and feel of crinkle paper. A simple sensory activity that promotes grip and listening.