Developmental Milestones
Developmental Milestones are general markers that indicate typical progress in a child’s development, covering areas like physical, cognitive, social, and emotional skills. They provide a framework for observing and tracking a child’s growth. This page offers resources for tracking and supporting developmental milestones. Find checklists, tracking tools, parenting strategies, and guidance on communicating with families.
The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) is the U.S. national public health agency that works to protect public health and safety by providing information to enhance health decisions. They provide resources focused on developmental milestones and child development.
- Learn the Signs. Act Early – includes developmental milestones for ages 2 months to 5 years. The Milestone Tracker App tracks development using an interactive, illustrated checklist.
- Positive Parenting Tips – offers information about child development and tips for parents to help their child grow and learn during each stage of development.
- Watch Me! Celebrating Milestones and Sharing Concerns – This online continuing education course provides tools and best practices for tracking the development of children and talking about it with parents.
Developmental Milestones for All Ages – This resource from Pathways.org breaks milestones down into categories of Motor, Communication, Feeding, and Sensory. Content is laid out with easily digestible bulleted lists and videos to support learning.
Ages & Stages – This website offers information and resources pertaining to child development from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Plain Talk for Parents – From the Department of Children and Families (DCF), easy-to-read informational sheets to support families in understanding the general patterns of childhood growth and development.
Talking with Families About Their Child’s Development – A resource from Head Start with strategies for early childhood professionals on discussing developmental concerns with families.
If you have questions or concerns about a child’s development (physical, social-emotional, or cognitive), contact:
- Wisconsin Wayfinder – connects parents, caregivers, and professionals with free, confidential, and personalized support.
- Well Badger Resource Center – is an information and referral (I&R) service for connecting individuals and families to the social, health, and government programs available in Wisconsin.
Updated 9/17/2025