Understanding baby development: what to expect in the first year
The first year of your baby's life is a whirlwind - a beautiful, messy, magical blur of sleepless nights, gummy smiles, and rapid growth. One moment they're a squishy newborn who barely opens their eyes, and the next, they're crawling across the floor with a spoon in one hand and your phone in the other.
It's amazing, and sometimes overwhelming, to watch your baby develop so quickly. But baby development doesn't follow a neat checklist. Every baby grows at their own pace, and comparing yours to others can steal the joy out of this precious time.
Here's what to expect in the first year, plus some gentle reassurance that "normal" comes in many forms.
0–3 months: the fourth trimester
In the early weeks, your baby is adjusting to life outside the womb, and so are you. This phase, often called the fourth trimester, is all about comfort, bonding, and survival.
What's happening:
• Your baby recognises your voice and scent
• They may start to make eye contact and coo by 6–8 weeks
• Tummy time becomes important to build neck and shoulder strength
Tip: Skin-to-skin cuddles and talking softly to your baby support early brain development. Don't worry if milestones feel far away - this is the "just be" season.
 |
4–6 months: the smiling, rolling, grabbing stage
You'll likely notice your baby becoming more alert and social, smiling at familiar faces, laughing, and exploring with their hands and mouth. Understanding baby development during this stage helps you appreciate how much learning happens through play and exploration.
What's happening:
• They may roll from tummy to back (and vice versa)
• Grabbing and mouthing toys begins
• Some babies start to sit with support
Tip: Offer safe toys of different textures to stimulate sensory development. Your baby is learning through play - it's their full-time job right now.
6–9 months: movement, meals, and mum radar
This is when things get mobile! Many babies begin crawling, sitting up unassisted, and showing strong attachment to their primary caregivers (hello, separation anxiety).
What's happening:
• Solid food is introduced - messy but exciting
• Babbling begins ("ba-ba," "da-da")
• Improved coordination allows for passing toys between hands
Tip: Mealtimes are about exploration, not perfection. HelloFresh can support you too - less time stressing about your own dinner means more time for baby's food-flinging adventures.
9–12 months: standing, mimicking, and little personalities
Near the one-year mark, babies often become mini adventurers - pulling to stand, cruising along furniture, and testing boundaries.
What's happening:
• First words may appear ("mama," "more," "no")
• They may wave, clap, or point
• Their understanding of cause and effect deepens (drop toy, watch Mum pick it up — again!)
Tip: Narrate your day out loud to build language skills. Even simple phrases like "Now we change your nappy!" or "Let's go outside!" are rich learning tools.
But what if my baby isn't doing these things yet?
This is where new parents often worry, but here's the truth: developmental timelines are wide and flexible. Some babies walk at nine months. Some at 16. Some babble early; others are quiet observers for longer.
Rather than watching for a specific date, keep an eye on progress. Are they learning new things in their own way? Are they engaged with the world around them? If so, you're on track.
And if something feels off, trust your instincts. Talk to your Plunket nurse, GP, or paediatrician - early support is available and helpful, not a sign of failure.
Celebrate the little things
Every burble, every roll, every gummy grin is a miracle in motion. Your baby is growing more than just physically - they're learning how to connect, explore, trust, and love.
So, take the pressure off. Let go of the milestone charts (or at least don't obsess). Your baby is not a checklist, they're a whole person becoming who they are, right before your eyes.
You're doing a great job, mama. Keep showing up. Keep loving. And yes, keep taking those blurry, beautiful photos, you'll treasure them more than any milestone list. Remember, baby development is a journey unique to each child, and you're the perfect guide for yours.
