Baby month by month
What to plan, buy and play each month from birth to three — the practical side, not a development checklist.
Every baby develops at their own pace. These pages cover planning and play — for questions about growth or development, talk to your pediatrician.
The first year
- 1 monthPaperwork, helpers and a simple log — the practical side of the first weeks.
- 2 monthsStart thinking about childcare and a loose daily rhythm.
- 3 monthsChildcare visits, return-to-work plans and more awake time to fill.
- 4 monthsClothes in the next size up and a first look at baby-proofing.
- 5 monthsGetting ready for first foods: high chair, spoons and a plan with your pediatrician.
- 6 monthsFirst foods, a high chair and baby-proofing before your baby is on the move.
- 7 monthsNew textures, more play and a safer floor.
- 8 monthsGates, finger foods and plans for the months ahead.
- 9 monthsFinger foods, stair gates and the first birthday on the horizon.
- 10 monthsBusy hands, family meals and party plans.
- 11 monthsFinal party prep and getting ready for toddlerhood.
- 12 monthsThe first birthday — plus car seats, shoes and toddler meals.