This article describes the skills and growth targets of 2-month-old infants.
Alternative Names
Normal childhood growth milestones - 2 months; Childhood growth milestones - 2 months; Growth milestones for children - 2 months
Information
Physical and motor-skill markers:
Closing of soft spot at the back of the head (posterior fontanelle)
Several newborn reflexes, such as the stepping reflex (baby appears to dance or step when placed upright on solid surface) and grasp reflex (grasping a finger), disappear
Less head lag (head is less wobbly on the neck)
When on stomach, able to lift head almost 45 degrees
Less flexing of the arms and legs while lying on the stomach
Sensory and cognitive markers:
Beginning to look at close objects
Coos
Different cries means different things
Head turns from side to side with sound at the level of the ear
Smiles
Responds to familiar voices
Play recommendations:
Expose your baby to sounds outside those of the home
Take your baby for rides in the car or walks in the neighborhood
The room should be bright with pictures and mirrors
Toys and objects should be bright colors
Read to your baby
Talk to your baby about objects and people in his or her environment
References
Feigelman S. The first year. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th Ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 8.
Review Date:
1/17/2011
Reviewed By:
Jennifer K. Mannheim, ARNP, Medical Staff, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Seattle Children's Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
