Social
0-6 months
Social smile (reciprocal smile)
What to Expect
Baby smiles in response to your smile or voice. This is different from reflexive smiling and shows social connection.
Warning Signs
No social smile by 3 months; Does not make eye contact; Shows no interest in faces
At-Home Strategies
- Smile broadly at baby during face-to-face play, wait a moment, and watch for them to smile back at you in response.
- Make funny faces and sounds to elicit smiles. When baby smiles, respond enthusiastically with "Good! You smiled!" to reinforce the interaction.
- During bath time, smile and play peek-a-boo with a small towel, encouraging baby to smile when you reveal your smiling face.
- Hold baby at comfortable distance (about 12 inches from face), make loving eye contact, and smile repeatedly to encourage smiling back.
Development Checklists
Bonding and Smiling (0-3 months)
Makes eye contact
Social smile in response to interaction
Calms when held by parent
Shows preference for human faces
Responds to caregiver voice
Enjoys being held and cuddled
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Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.