What milestones should a 9-12 months old baby reach?

Key milestones for 9-12 months include: Puts things in container, takes out, Finds things hidden under 2-3 covers, Explores by banging/shaking/throwing, Looks at correct picture when named, Imitates new gestures and actions. Every child develops differently, so use these as a general guide.

What cognitive milestones should I look for at 9-12 months?

At 9-12 months, key cognitive milestones include: Puts things in container, takes out, Finds things hidden under 2-3 covers, Explores by banging/shaking/throwing, Looks at correct picture when named, Imitates new gestures and actions.

What language/communication milestones should I look for at 9-12 months?

At 9-12 months, key language/communication milestones include: Waves 'bye-bye', Calls parent 'mama' or 'dada' specifically, Understands and follows simple directions, Says single words like 'uh-oh', Points to show what wants, Uses gestures to communicate needs.

What movement/physical milestones should I look for at 9-12 months?

At 9-12 months, key movement/physical milestones include: Gets to sitting without help, Pulls up to stand, Walks holding furniture (cruises), May take steps alone, Crawls well on hands and knees, Uses pincer grasp to pick up small objects, Claps hands, Stands momentarily without support.

What social/emotional milestones should I look for at 9-12 months?

At 9-12 months, key social/emotional milestones include: Shy or clingy with strangers, Has wide range of facial expressions, Plays simple games like peek-a-boo, Hands things to others during play, Shows empathy when others are upset, Tests reactions of caregivers.

9-12 months Milestones

Here are the key development milestones for babies aged 9-12 months.

Last reviewed: May 2026

Cognitive Language/Communication Movement/Physical Social/Emotional

Cognitive

Puts things in container, takes out
Finds things hidden under 2-3 covers
Explores by banging/shaking/throwing
Looks at correct picture when named
Imitates new gestures and actions

Language/Communication

Waves 'bye-bye'
Calls parent 'mama' or 'dada' specifically
Understands and follows simple directions
Says single words like 'uh-oh'
Points to show what wants
Uses gestures to communicate needs

Movement/Physical

Gets to sitting without help
Pulls up to stand
Walks holding furniture (cruises)
May take steps alone
Crawls well on hands and knees
Uses pincer grasp to pick up small objects
Claps hands
Stands momentarily without support

What foods to introduce at 9-12 months

Your baby is hitting new milestones — their diet should grow with them. Explore age-appropriate foods, preparation guides, and safety ratings.

When to Talk to Your Pediatrician

Every child develops at their own pace, and a wide range of progress is considered typical. However, if you notice that your child is not meeting several milestones for their age group, or if you have any concerns about their development, it's always a good idea to bring it up with your pediatrician. Early conversations with your child's doctor can help you understand what to look for and when additional support may be helpful.

Milestone criteria based on CDC and AAP research — sourced from the CDC's Learn the Signs. Act Early. program, developed in collaboration with the American Academy of Pediatrics. For informational purposes only; not endorsed by or affiliated with the CDC or AAP.

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