How I Learn

Birth to 3 months

• I begin to smile and track people and objects with my eyes.
• I prefer to look at faces and bright colors.
• I reach and discover my hands and my feet.
• I can lift my head and turn toward sound.
• I cry, but will feel better when you hold and comfort me.

4 to 6 months

• I smile often. I'll even laugh, gurgle and imitate sounds.
• I learn about my body, exploring my hands and feet.
• I can sit up when you prop me.
• I like to roll over, scoot and bounce.
• I can grasp things without using my thumb, and like to put things in my mouth.

7 to 12 months

• I remember simple events and familiar voices and identify myself in the mirror.
• I understand my name and other words you use a lot.
• I can say my first words.
• I like to explore, and bang, and shake objects.
• I can find hidden toys and put things in containers.
• I can sit up all by myself.
• I creep and can pull myself up to stand and walk.
• I'm shy and sometimes people I don't know make me feel scared.

1 to 2 years

• I like to imitate what adults are doing and help you with tasks.
• I can talk now and understand words and ideas.
• I like stories and experimenting with things.
• I can walk, climb stairs, and run.
• I show my independence, but am more comfortable with people I know.
• I'm proud of the things I can do and can solve simple problems.
• I have some friends and am starting to play make believe.

2 to 3 1/2 years

• I like to learn new things.
• I can learn new words really fast now.
• I always like to be on the go.
• I have better control of my hands and fingers.
• I get frustrated easily.
• I act more independent, but I still depend on you.
• I like to act out familiar scenes when I play.

3 1/2 to 5 years

• I have a longer attention span.
• I act silly, boisterous, and use language that isn't nice.
• I talk a lot now and ask a lot of questions.
• I want real adult things, and keep the art projects I make.
• I test my physical skills and courage with caution.
• I reveal my feelings to you in dramatic play.
• I like to play with friends, but I don't like to lose.
• I sometimes share my stuff and take turns.

5 to 8 years

• I am curious about people and how the world works.
• I am interested in numbers, letters, reading and writing.
• I have more confidence now in my physical skills.
• I use words to express my feelings and to cope.
• I like grown-up activities.
• I like to meet and play with more kids and I play more cooperatively now.