The developmental milestone checklist lets you track your child's communication, movement, social, and cognitive milestones using CDC Learn the Signs. Act Early. guidelines. Select an age to see what most children can do and watch for red flags.
Select Your Child's Age
How to Use the Developmental Milestone Checklist
The CDC's developmental milestone checklist covers four domains at each age: communication/language, gross and fine motor movement, social/emotional development, and cognitive skills. Most children reach milestones within a range — this tool flags items where delay is more clinically significant.
Step 1: Choose the Right Age
Select your child's current age (or adjusted age for premature babies). Well-child visits typically occur at 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24 months, and then annually — use the milestone list closest to each upcoming visit to prepare questions for your pediatrician.
Step 2: Check Off Milestones Your Child Has Reached
Check each item your child can do consistently, not just on a good day. Some milestones are emerging — they may not be fully mastered yet. Focus on what your child does regularly, not just once or twice.
Red Flags vs. Normal Variation
Not every unchecked milestone is a red flag. Children develop at different rates, especially in language. The items marked as "discuss with pediatrician" represent milestones the CDC identifies as early warning signs worth professional evaluation — not a diagnosis. If you're concerned, early screening is always appropriate.
What to Do If Your Child Misses Milestones
Request a developmental screening at any well-child visit. Children under 3 may qualify for free early intervention services through your state's Part C program regardless of diagnosis. Request an evaluation through your local school district (ages 3–5) or pediatrician for a referral to a developmental pediatrician or specialist.
FAQ
Is this developmental milestone checklist free?
Yes, completely free. All data runs locally in your browser — no signup required.
What guidelines are these milestones based on?
These milestones are based on the CDC's Learn the Signs. Act Early. program (updated 2022), which reflects the latest developmental research and pediatric guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
What does 'discuss with pediatrician' mean on a milestone?
These are early warning signs that a child may benefit from developmental screening or evaluation. Missing one milestone does not mean your child has a developmental condition — children develop at different rates. However, flagged items are worth raising at your next well-child visit.
My child is premature — should I use their adjusted age?
Yes. For premature babies, use their adjusted age (corrected for prematurity) when checking milestones, at least through age 2. For example, a baby born 2 months early who is now 6 months old has an adjusted age of 4 months.
What should I do if my child is missing multiple milestones?
Contact your pediatrician promptly. Early intervention services (available through age 3 via Part C of IDEA) can significantly improve outcomes when developmental delays are identified and addressed early. Don't wait for your next scheduled well-child visit.