2 Months Milestones

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.

Holds head up at 45-degree angle during tummy time

CDC WHO

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

1 moavg 2 mo3 mo4 mo

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

CDC

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

1 moavg 2 mo3 mo4 mo

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.