Month 2 Milestones- First Social Smiles: Encouraging Eye Contact and Social Interaction

Your baby starts to transition from the world of reflexes to the world of relationships at just two months of age.  One of the most thrilling milestones for parents is the first social smile that delightful grin that’s meant just for you. These smiles are the beginning of real social interaction and emotional bonding.

The First Social Smiles

Around six to eight weeks in, babies start to smile with intent—not just randomly. You’ll often see these smiles after they hear your voice, catch a glimpse of your face, or feel your touch. After hearing your voice, seeing your face, or feeling your touch, this smile frequently appears. It’s like they’re saying: “I recognize you, and I’m so glad you’re around.”

These smiles are not just cute—they signify that your baby’s social and emotional skills are developing.

Encouraging Eye Contact

Babies are now learning how to maintain eye contact and concentrate better. You might catch your baby staring right at you, especially during feedings or when you're chatting. Making eye contact enhances your relationship, fosters trust, and prepares you for effective communication.

Ways to Encourage Eye Contact:

• Keep your baby close while feeding or cuddling.
• Smile frequently while talking gently.
• Play simple face-to-face games like making gentle expressions or sticking out your tongue.
  
• Building Social Interaction

Your infant is beginning to understand that they can "communicate" with you. Their first attempts at conversation include smiling, cooing, and excited kicking. Answering these cues helps them develop their future language skills and teaches them that their actions count.

Tips to Encourage Social Interaction:

• Respond to your baby’s coos and smiles with excitement.
• Use a sing-song voice to grab their attention.
• Talk about what you’re doing to introduce them to language.
• Set aside time each day for focused face-to-face play.
  
  

Other Month 2 Highlights

Your baby may also start cooing (making vowel sounds) in addition to smiling and making eye contact.

• Show improved neck control during tummy time.
• Begin to recognize familiar routines, like feeding or bedtime.
• Recognize familiar routines, such as feeding or bedtime.
  

Celebrating This Stage

The second month is full of sweet moments as your baby starts to develop personality. Each smile is a small victory, signaling their growing awareness and the joy of connecting with you.