2 Months Milestones
Content reviewed against published CDC, WHO, AAP guidelines
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Two months is an age when your baby starts to become more social and interactive. The social smile is often the biggest milestone parents notice, and it is truly special - your baby is telling you they know you and are happy to see you. Brain development is happening at an incredible pace right now, with your baby forming more than a million neural connections every second. The best things you can do are talk to your baby, respond to their cues, give them tummy time, and let them study your face. Every baby has their own timeline, and there is a wide range of what is considered normal. If you have concerns, your pediatrician is your best resource - they want to hear from you.
Key takeaways
- Gross motor: Holds head up at 45-degree angle during tummy time
- Fine motor: Hands open more often
- Language: Begins to coo and make gurgling sounds
- Social-emotional: Smiles at people (social smile)
- Cognitive: Follows things with eyes and recognizes people at a distance
“Skills such as taking a first step, smiling for the first time, and waving 'bye-bye' are called developmental milestones. Children reach milestones in how they play, learn, speak, act, and move.”
When placed on their tummy, your baby can lift their head up and hold it for several seconds.
What it looks like
During tummy time your baby pushes up on their forearms and lifts their head at roughly a 45-degree angle. They can hold it there for a few seconds before lowering it down again. You may see them looking around while they hold their head up.
Typical range
When should I worry?
This is normal
By about 2 months, most babies can lift their head at a 45-degree angle during tummy time. Some babies do this earlier, especially those who get regular tummy time. The key is steady improvement in head control over time.
Mention at next visit
If your baby cannot lift their head at all during tummy time by about 3 months, or seems to have no improvement in head control, mention it to your pediatrician.
Call your doctor
If your baby suddenly loses head control they previously had, or if their head always tilts sharply to one side and they cannot straighten it, contact your pediatrician.
Movements become smoother and less jerky
Your baby's arm and leg movements are starting to look less like startled jerks and more like smooth, flowing motions.
What it looks like
Compared to a few weeks ago, your baby's kicks and arm waves look more graceful and rhythmic. You may notice them moving their arms and legs in a cycling or pedaling motion while lying on their back.
Typical range
When should I worry?
This is normal
The transition from jerky, reflexive movements to smoother, more controlled ones is a gradual process that unfolds over the first few months. By about 2 months most parents notice the change.
Mention at next visit
If your baby's movements still look mostly jerky and uncontrolled at 3 to 4 months, or if the movements seem very asymmetric (one side moves much more than the other), bring it up with your pediatrician.
Call your doctor
If your baby has sudden jerking or shaking episodes that look rhythmic and repetitive - especially if their eyes roll or they become unresponsive during these episodes - seek medical attention right away, as these could be seizures.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
Red flags to watch for
If you notice any of the following, contact your pediatrician. These signs do not necessarily mean something is wrong, but they are worth discussing with a professional.
Does not respond to loud sounds
What to do
Request a hearing evaluation from your pediatrician. Early identification of hearing issues leads to better outcomes.
Does not watch things as they move
What to do
Mention this at your next visit. Your pediatrician can check vision and visual tracking.
Does not smile at people
What to do
If your baby has not shown a social smile by the end of 2 months, let your pediatrician know. The social smile is an important developmental marker.
Does not bring hands to mouth
What to do
Talk to your pediatrician about this. It involves both motor skills and body awareness.
Cannot hold head up when pushing up on tummy
What to do
If there is no improvement in head control by 3 months, your pediatrician should evaluate muscle tone and strength.
Frequently asked questions
What milestones should a 2 months baby have?
When should I worry about my 2 months baby's development?
What are the red flags at 2 months?
Bottom line
Every baby develops at their own pace. The 2 months milestones listed here are typical ranges based on CDC, WHO, and AAP guidelines. Missing a milestone doesn't necessarily mean something is wrong, but talk to your pediatrician if you have concerns.
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.
All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.
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