Health & Baby

Baby Development: Your 2-Month Old

You've gotten past the newborn phase, and now, in the second month, you’re starting to get a sense of your baby’s personality. You’re also learning what makes your 2-month-old tick -- from likes and dislikes, to crying triggers, which are pretty basic at this point:  hunger, sleepiness, and dirty diapers.

This portion of WebMD’s month-by-month guide describes a few of the baby milestones you can expect your child to reach at two months.

Second Month Baby Milestones: Motor Skills

Two-month-old babies are gaining more control over their bodies. That means they can hold their head a little steadier while lying on their tummies or being supported upright.

In the second month of life, babies continue to have a strong sucking reflex. You may notice your baby likes to suck on a fist or a few fingers. This is one of the best ways babies have of comforting themselves.

At 2 months, your baby doesn’t yet have the coordination to play with toys. But your baby may bat at a colorful object hanging in front of her. Your baby may even briefly hold a toy that you place in one of her hands.

Second Month Baby Milestones: Sleep

Your baby’s sleep patterns are evolving, but at two months, they still aren’t fully established. At this age, babies sleep 15 to 16 hours a day. But those hours are sporadic, and they usually aren’t ready to sleep through the night. This is especially true for breastfed babies, who generally wake up to eat every three hours or so.

Hang in there for just a few more weeks and you’ll be able to get some much-needed rest. You may even be able to get to a full night’s sleep earlier by helping your baby learn how to fall asleep on her own. Do this by putting your baby into the crib when she’s drowsy rather than fast asleep.

All babies need to be put to sleep on their backs to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). You can provide plenty of tummy time when your baby is awake and supervised. Also, remove all soft objects from your baby’s crib, including pillows, blankets, stuffed animals, and soft bumpers.

Second Month Baby Milestones: The Senses

At two months, babies can see objects -- and people -- from up to 18 inches away. That means you still need to get pretty close, but your baby will be able to see your face pretty well while feeding. Your baby should also be able to follow your movements when you walk close by.

Baby’s hearing is improving, too. Your 2-month-old will especially enjoy listening to the sound of your voice.