Every baby is unique, and premature babies may reach their developmental milestones at a slightly different pace than full-term babies. Remember that your preemie's adjusted age, also known as corrected age, is an important factor to consider when tracking their milestones. Adjusted age refers to how old your baby would be if they were born on their due date rather than prematurely. This calculation can help monitor a preemie’s development.
Preemie Milestones
Learn about different age milestones of a premature baby.
|
Corrected Age |
Developmental Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1 month | Lifting their head briefly during tummy time Staring at faces and objects Responding to sound and voices Tracking objects with their eyes |
| 2 months | Smiling responsively Making cooing sounds Pushing up on their arms during tummy time |
| 3 months | Grasping objects with their hands Showing interest in their surroundings Rolling over back to tummy |
| 6 months | Babbling and making more vocalizations Sitting up briefly without support Reaching for objects and transferring them from hand to hand Responding to their name Starting solid foods (check with your healthcare provider first) |
| 9 months | Crawling or scooting Pulling themselves up to stand Using pincer grasp to pick up small objects Understanding simple instructions |
| 1 year | Taking their first steps or cruising along furniture Saying a few words or imitating sounds Stacking blocks or toys Feeding themselves with fingers |
1 Month Milestones
- Lifting their head briefly during tummy time
- Staring at faces and objects
- Responding to sound and voices
- Feeding regularly and gaining weight
2 Month Milestones
- Smiling responsively
- Tracking objects with their eyes
- Making cooing sounds
- Pushing up on their arms during tummy time
3 Month Milestones
- Grasping objects with their hands
- Rolling over from tummy to back or vice versa
- Babbling and making more vocalizations
- Showing interest in their surroundings
6 Month Milestones
- Sitting up independently
- Reaching for objects and transferring them from hand to hand
- Responding to their name
- Starting solid foods (check with your healthcare provider first)
9 Month Milestones
- Crawling or scooting
- Pulling themselves up to stand
- Using pincer grasp to pick up small objects
- Understanding simple instructions
1 Year Milestones
- Taking their first steps or cruising along furniture
- Saying a few words or imitating sounds
- Stacking blocks or toys
- Feeding themselves with fingers
Adjusted Age Calculator
Calculating your preemie's adjusted age can help to track their milestones. To determine the adjusted age, subtract the number of weeks your baby was premature from their chronological age. For example, if your baby is 8 months old but was born 2 months early, their adjusted age would be 6 months.
Keep in mind that all babies develop at their own pace, whether they're premature or not. If you have concerns about your baby's development or notice significant delays, it's always a good idea to consult your pediatrician. They can provide guidance and support for your baby’s unique needs.
Celebrate Your Milestones With Enfamil Family Beginnings®
Watching your premature baby grow and achieve milestones, you can celebrate each moment and cherish their growth with Enfamil Family Beginnings®! Join our program to receive helpful resources, expert advice, and exclusive offers tailored to you.
Remember, every milestone your baby reaches is a testament to their strength and resilience. Join Enfamil Family Beginnings® today and let's celebrate every milestone together!