Understanding your baby’s development

Every child is different, so taking time to work out what works for you both is important. Encouraging conversation, even baby babble, as well as social interaction and physical movement, will help your child grow into a confident toddler – so it's good to start early! 

How you can support your baby's development

Use your red book

This will follow your child until they are 18 and is a record of all their major milestones, their development as well as the vaccinations they have received.

Play with your baby

Play helps your baby develop. There are lots of useful ideas on Cbeebies parenting and you can download the 50 things to do before you're 5 app to be inspired.

Learn what to expect from your baby's development

For a week-by-week and month-by-month view, plus when to expect the major baby milestones, visit netmums. 

Chat to your baby

Chatting to your baby during activities like nappy changing can help them learn about conversations. The Words for Life website has loads of activities you can do with your baby to help them develop.  

Learn how your baby responds

Get to know how your baby responds to your body language, tone of voice and choice of words. How your baby sees you (YouTube). 

Join groups

Sign up with your local children and family centre or take a look and see if there is a family hub local to you. It will allow you to access a range of groups and services in your local community.

Take part in activities

Take a look at the range of activities and support groups in Oxfordshire so you can get out and about and meet other parents and carers. 

Start well with your baby

Henry is a local charity that focuses on healthy lifestyles from an early age. The website includes meal ideas, activity ideas and support for parents. Visit Henry.  

If you're worried about your baby's development

If you have any concerns about your baby's physical, social or cognitive development, firstly talk to your health visitor or GP who will know your child and the individual circumstances.

When to seek medical help 

Contact your GP, midwife or health visitor if: 

• you are worried about your baby's feeding or growth 
• your baby seems unwell or different from usual  

Pop into one of our family hubs 

Family hubs provide ongoing support after your baby arrives, including activities, family services and opportunities to meet other parents. 

Want to find out more about what comes next? 

Toddlers – their development stages and what to expect. From baby to toddler.