Milestones: What to Expect in Your Child’s First 5 Years

Every parent looks forward to the incredible journey of watching their child grow, from the first smile to the first steps, and eventually the first day at school. At Lennox Hospital, we know how important it is for parents to understand developmental milestones. These milestones are not strict deadlines, but helpful guides to track your child’s physical, emotional, and social progress.

Year 1: The First Steps of Life

0–6 months: Smiles, coos, begins to roll over.

6–12 months: Sits up, crawls, responds to their name, says simple words like “mama” or “dada.”

Year 2: Growing Independence

Begins walking steadily.

Uses short sentences (“want milk”).

Starts showing independence, like trying to feed themselves.

Recognises familiar faces and enjoys simple games.

Years 3–4: Rapid Learning

Climbs, runs, and jumps with confidence.

Talks in full sentences and asks lots of “why” questions.

Begins pretend play and can interact with other children.

Can recognize shapes, colors, and start counting.

Year 5: Ready for School

Can dress themselves with little help.

Speaks clearly and holds conversations.

Understands rules, routines, and shows empathy.

Begins reading readiness skills like identifying letters and numbers.

When to Seek Guidance

Children grow at different paces, and a delay in one area doesn’t always mean something is wrong. However, if you notice significant delays — such as not walking by 18 months, not speaking by age 2, or difficulty interacting with others — it’s best to consult a paediatric specialist.

Lennox Hospital Is Here for You

At Lennox Hospital, our paediatric team is committed to guiding parents through every stage of childhood development. Regular check-ups help us ensure your child is healthy, thriving, and meeting important milestones.

Your child’s growth is our priority. Book a paediatric appointment with Lennox Hospital today and let’s walk this journey together.